Research Opportunities at YSJ: Georgie’s Journey
At York St John University, there are endless opportunities for students to delve into new experiences that enrich their academic journey and open doors to impactful careers. Georgie, a mature student on the Physiotherapy degree, exemplifies this with her transformative research internship over the summer. Here’s a glimpse into her experience and what she learned along the way.
Discovering the Opportunity
For Georgie, the chance to participate in a paid research internship was a game-changer. Advertised via email, the internship invited students to engage with academics, learn about research processes, and work on real-world projects. For Georgie, who transitioned into physiotherapy from a career in wellness and acting, the internship presented a valuable opportunity to enhance her research literacy—a skill she had long sought to develop.
“I felt held back by my inability to properly critique studies or understand what made good research versus bad research,” Georgie shared. “When this internship came up, it was a no-brainer for me to apply.”
A Deep Dive into Research
The application process was rigorous, involving a detailed proposal and an in-depth interview that explored topics like inclusivity and quality in research. Once selected, Georgie embarked on a two-month journey filled with learning and collaboration. She attended conferences, shadowed professionals, and participated in diverse studies—from exercise protocols to focus groups with families of brain injury patients.
A recurring theme in her experience was the importance of Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in research. Georgie observed how incorporating the voices of those directly affected by studies transformed the research process. “If you’re going to study people, you can’t just study about them—you need to involve them in the process,” she emphasized.
Key Takeaways
The internship profoundly shaped Georgie’s understanding of research. Beyond the technicalities, she learned to see research as a means to tell meaningful stories, advocate for change, and create a tangible impact on people’s lives. “It’s not just about getting published—it’s about making a difference,” Georgie explained.
One standout experience was working alongside peers from nursing and occupational therapy. Together, they co-authored a commentary piece on interdisciplinary collaboration in professional education, now under review for publication. This experience not only honed her academic writing skills but also underscored the value of teamwork across disciplines.
Advice for Future Researchers
For students considering similar opportunities, Georgie offers a word of encouragement: “Don’t let the initial difficulty of research intimidate you. Once you dive in, you’ll find it’s much more human and relatable than it seems.” She especially urges those who feel disconnected from research to take the plunge, as they might discover new perspectives and passions.
Looking Ahead
As Georgie approaches graduation, her internship has left a lasting impact on her goals. She now views research as a powerful tool for change, with a renewed focus on policies and public voices in healthcare. While the internship is over, the lessons and connections she gained will undoubtedly influence her future endeavors.
This inspiring story highlights how York St John University supports students in pursuing unique experiences that foster growth and empower them to make meaningful contributions to their fields. Are you ready to explore your next opportunity? Let Georgie’s journey inspire you to take that first step!
To find out more about our students experience outside of YSJ, read Grace’s blog on her experience volunteering for the York International Shakespeare Festival.