UWE Student Wins National Prize In Diagnostic Imaging

Graduating from the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) Ruth Avery has been named Radiographer (Diagnostic Imaging) of the Year by the Society and College of Radiographers.

Ruth is the first ever graduate from UWE Bristol to have gained an award in the Diagnostic Imaging category. She said, “It felt good to have my work put forward for the award but I was really surprised and delighted to win. My dissertation was a review of online information for children prior to having an MRI scan. I found that there was plenty of information targeting adult readers but nothing to explain what was happening written in a way that would help children.

“I decided to study diagnostic imaging following time spent working in administration for the NHS. I really enjoy working with and helping people and biology and anatomy has always interested me. Radiography combines both of these interests and I have enjoyed learning about the technology associated with treatment delivery.

“The course at UWE is excellent with lecturers providing a focused and supportive learning environment. I was also keen to train at a university that provided placement opportunities at different hospitals. You learn more by spending time with different people and getting to learn how to use a variety of equipment.

“I secured employment at Southmead Hospital almost immediately after graduating and I’m just starting to get to grips with the shift work.”

Janice St John Matthews, Senior Lecturer in Diagnostic Imaging at UWE Bristol, said, “The aim of the award is to honour an undergraduate diagnostic radiography student who exemplifies the best of the profession’s values, as well as highlighting the students’ accomplishments whilst in a formal educational setting.

“The team nominated Ruth not only because of her excellent academic achievements but also her contribution as a student ambassador for the UWE Recruitment and Outreach team. What made Ruth stand out was the diagnostic imaging subject taster session she developed in partnership with this team for Year 6 learners so as to further increase people's appreciation of our profession.”

It is no surprise Ruth won the prestigious prize, as UWE Bristol has a successful track record in students winning these awards. A UWE student has won Radiotherapy Radiographer of the Year award for five out of six years but this is the first win for a Diagnostic Imaging graduate.

The award is to be presented at a special ceremony in the Houses of Parliament later in the year.

If looking to find out more about Radiotherapy and Oncology Radiography at UWE see here.