A Q&A on our new podiatrist Emma
What inspired you to study podiatry and where did you study?
This is something I always get asked, and honestly the answer is that podiatry just kind of happened for me. I knew I wanted to do something medical, but I had never thought about studying the profession until my last year at high school. I did work experience with Grant Chiropody and Podiatry to get a better idea of what podiatrists can do, and I was amazed to see just how much of a varied case load they have. After that, I knew this was what I wanted to do and am very glad about how things turned out. I studied at Queen Margaret University for 4 years where I graduated with a 1st class honours degree in 2021.
What subject did you enjoy most at uni and why?
The subject I enjoyed most at uni was disorders and management. In this module we looked at different health conditions, the medications used to treat these conditions and what we as podiatrists can do to help. This included learning about diabetes etc and their impact on the lower limb and foot.
How was graduating in a pandemic?
I went into my last year at university in 2020, so things were very different compared to my other years at QMU. We were allowed to go into the campus for some modules, but most were carried out online. I was fortunate enough when things were slightly better in summer 2021 to be able to have a small graduation day at the QMU grounds. We had the chance to wear our robes, get photographs, and indulge in some appetisers and champagne. It was a nice touch and a lovely sunny day!
What made you apply for the job at Grant podiatry?
After working in the NHS for almost a year, I felt I needed a new challenge. When I seen the job advert, I honestly felt like it was a sign to go for it! I knew that they had a brilliant reputation and felt like it was somewhere I would be happy working. I also knew they would give me the opportunity to learn and become better as a practitioner.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The thing I love most about my job is the fact that I learn something new every day, whether that be from the patients I see to the podiatrists I work with, it is always a school day. I also enjoy seeing and treating a variety of problems and it’s great when I can help someone with their problems.
Is there an area of work you’d like to specialise in so far?
So far, I am enjoying all aspects of podiatry, but I really enjoy the biomechanics side of the job. This is an area I am keen to gain more experience and knowledge in. I have been made aware of certain health conditions which I had not heard about before, and I am also interested in becoming more specialised in these rarer disorders, for example, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy socialising with friends and family where we do things like going for walks, having dinners, or even sitting in watching a good film. I also love going abroad on holiday and venturing out to different places!
