What is the life of a student? Philippa thought it was going to class a few times a week and partying through the weekend and comparing it to when she was studying 'A' levels at school. The Student ODP programme is a difficult path and should not be taken lightly. Lack of money, large amounts of study and clinical work means you may have little time to do anything else never mind party!

Phillipa's expectations on life as a student

The cultural impact on students has many fronts. It can be the political or demographic cultural impact within different organisations.

The biggest cultural impact is that of the patient. We treat all equally and indiscriminately looking after the patients physiological and psychological needs in a holistic manner which is unaffected by our own personal cultural beliefs. The classic example of modern times are the medics in Afghanistan treating allies and enemies alike despite whatever their personal opinion might be.

Ryan discussing the culture shock of the programme

Cultural impacts on the role

Placements highlight many issues for students here at SHU. Not only is there the travelling aspect but there is the ability to fit in, and as soon as you have managed to fit in you are expected to up sticks and move again to another location. To add to this there is the impact of real people and the painful truths of patients pain and suffering, lets face it, you do not go to hospital if you are well and happy.

Placements however are the strength of our ODP programme. We here at SHU value our close relations with placement and work together to ensure high quality professional Operating Department Practitioners are released into the NHS at the end of our programme.

Ryan on placements

Stress on the ODP programme is significant and has an impact on student lives. Handling the vast quantities of academic and clinical work plus the life changing realities of a modern NHS for some has its own pitfalls. Potential students should seriously consider if they can cope with working full time and studying, over the two years of the programme.

Jenny discussing stress on the ODP programme

Whilst students do get a bursary to complete the programme it must be said that this by no means will cover all the costs. Many students struggle to get through the programme due to financial constraints The money offered will not cover mortgage payments, nor will it be much use when the car breaks down, so ensuring you either have a good amount of money saved for that rainy day or a good financial support structure around you is imperative prior to acceptance of a place.

Emma discussing impact of low income on family