students and staff Name
James Tobia COURSE
BSc (Hons) Sport Science & Coaching Q: What do you think about the course so far? A: It is exactly what I wanted to study! My future career is based on becoming a touring professional golfer around the world and the University is helping me to organise and structure my learning around this.
Name
Maggie Alphonsi, MBE GRADUATED
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercice Science graduate (2005) JOB
English women’s rugby international Q: Why did you choose the University of Bedfordshire? A: Mainly because it’s highly rated and is acknowledged for its level of delivery in sport and exercise science. I also really liked the facilities and the atmosphere. Q: W hat did you think of the facilities? A: I really liked the quality of the lecture theatres. I thought the sport and exercise equipment was of a very high standard and the associated sports centre was also very good and suitable for my needs. Q: D id you benefit from any financial support? A: Yes! I received a sports grant from the University which significantly helped me support my training needs. Q: H ow would you sum up your experience? A: My time at the University was great and I learned a significant amount. It challenged me to think and work at my education, and not just at my sport. I would happily advise anyone to come here. Did you know? In 2014, Maggie was part of the England team that has won the Women’s Rugby World Cup. Maggie has won more than 40 international caps since making her first England appearance aged 19, when she was still studying with us. The flanker played in two world cups and record-breaking Six Nations and Grand Slam triumphs. Her performances saw her voted the International Rugby Board’s (IRB) Female Personality of the Year and the 2010 Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year. 6 www.beds.ac.uk
Q: Tell us more about your career aspirations... A: I started playing golf at the age of 13. My dad was a professional golfer and taught at Whitewebbs Golf Club, and has always been my inspiration. I’m embarking on the Jamega Pro Golf Tour where I’ll be playing against some of the nation’s best, on courses across the UK and Europe. Q: How do you feel about playing professional after training for so long? A: For me it’s huge just to become a pro. I’ve played in pro tournaments before and there’s a big step up in terms of the other players’ attitude and behaviour – I want to prove myself now and learn how to manage myself as a business too. Q: Do you think the course is helping you prepare for the future? A: Definitely! And I’m more than confident I’ll achieve my career aspirations.
Name
Dr Andrew Mitchell title
ead of Sport Science & Physical H Activity Q: H ow did you get involved in sport and exercise science? A: I did a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science back in 1992, then studied for an MSc at the University of Tennessee in the USA. I then returned to the UK to read for a PhD in Sports Biomechanics. I’ve been a certified strength and conditioning coach for many years and work with elite junior athletes from a variety of sports. Q: What sports are you involved in? A: I have played American football, but for the last five years I’ve been competing in Ironman triathlons. Q: What do you like most about the University of Bedfordshire? A: The way it provides opportunities to people with a range of abilities to learn and excel. Q: What qualities do students need to possess to succeed? A: Determination and a willingness to do something different that will place them ahead of the queue for future jobs and career development! Q: W hat advice do you have for new students? A: W ork hard, have a great time and maximise on the opportunities that being at Bedfordshire provides you.