Sport & Exercise Science graduate lands role supporting Olympic athletes

Josh Rudd, BSc Hons Sport & Exercise Science graduate.

“I chose to study at University of Gloucestershire because the Sport & Exercise Sciences course looked really good and offered a variety of subjects within it. For example, I was able to study both physiology and psychology simultaneously which really helped, as I wasn’t 100% sure which area I preferred most.

I visited the University for an open day before I applied. It gave me a great insight into life in Gloucestershire and at the University. I really enjoyed the accommodation tour – it gave me an idea of what to expect living on campus. I liked that UoG has smaller campuses in comparison to some of the larger universities, and that also translated in the teaching as I felt like the lecturers could offer a personal learning experience.

During my studies, I’ve never felt more engaged. I definitely felt like I was given a practical, hands-on experience.

Another massive selling point to studying at the University of Gloucestershire was the refereeing scholarship which to my knowledge is still the only scholarship that puts officiating on a level playing field with performance and coaching. I used to be a football referee and my experience on the scholarship helped me massively, not only to become a better referee but a better person by the end of my studies. It opened the door to some great experiences.

As mentioned, I felt like the teaching experience at the University was far more approachable and personal than what I imagine larger institutions offer. I always felt captivated and engaged by the academics – I remember having a great conversation with the sport psychology lecturer at the time who really ignited a passion for my dissertation. A great example of how engaging in the process allows me to get the most out of my studies.

Since graduating, I have gone on to work as a Performance Lifestyle Adviser for the English Institute of Sport, currently supporting the British Swimming’s world-class program and athletes after their most successful Olympic Games in Tokyo 2020. My role is within a multidisciplinary sport science and medicine team.

Gaining a degree in Sport & Exercise Sciences and learning a range of subjects such as physiology, nutrition, biomechanics and data analysis has played a huge part in the role I am in today.”

View our Sport & Exercise Science course.