Afshan and Sara

Before studying at Reading, Afshan and Sara had unique backgrounds: Afshan was trained to teach English as a foreign language, and Sara had already completed an undergraduate In Psychology and Fine Art and master’s degree in Fine Art. After working directly with individuals with speech and language impairments, both realised they wanted to pursue a career in speech and language therapy and applied to study at Reading.

“I found the course intellectually stimulating” said Sara, “it brought together so many different disciplines ranging from medicine to linguistics. Everything I was taught fed directly into my clinical work after graduating.“

Afshan added:

“The course can be challenging and intense, but academics were incredibly passionate and supportive. The Speech and Language therapy department has always been quite small and close-knit, and I found it enjoyable to be working alongside students and lecturers who all shared the same interests.”

Following graduation, both quickly found work as speech and language therapists. Sara focused on paediatrics in the NHS, while Afshan worked with both adult and children in the private sector and NHS. As clinicians, they both provided placements for University of Reading students. 

Now they are Clinical Tutors, the experience they had as students with us coupled with time working in clinical settings has provided them with a unique insight into the challenges and opportunities you might face, and enables them to offer valuable support and guidance. 

Sara said:

“From my experience, I believe one of my most important roles as a Clinical Tutor is not to provide students with every answer, but to give them the confidence and skills to find the answers on their own.”

Afshan said:

“I know from direct experience that the course can be challenging at times. But seeing how our students grow and overcome obstacles over the course of the degree is incredible. The level of development from their first module to their final exam is extraordinary and supporting them in that growth is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.”