Enya O'Carroll
When Enya O’Carroll finished her undergraduate degree in Health and Performance Science, she knew she wanted her passion for healthcare to become a reliable and professional career she enjoyed.
After gaining clinical insight and exploring her options, she enrolled in Portobello Institute’s MSc in Physiotherapy, a course that is now building her skills and confidence to become a capable, qualified physiotherapist.
“I have always had a passion for healthcare and helping others since I was young. I was always fascinated by the human body, by how it works, and I really enjoyed biology in secondary school. I had a big interest in sports injuries and anatomy.
“I spent some time shadowing in Ranelagh Physiotherapy Clinic, observing patients with contrasting conditions and seeing what day to day work life as a physiotherapist entails. This helped me finalise my decision to apply for further studies in the MSc Physiotherapy,” she said.
Choosing the Course for the Career She Wanted
For Enya, pursuing a master’s in Physiotherapy wasn’t just about taking the next step, it was about finally acting on a long-held ambition. Even during her undergraduate studies, she knew physiotherapy was where she wanted to end up.
“Throughout my undergraduate degree, I always had a keen interest in physiotherapy. We shared some modules with the physiotherapy students and I often thought this is what I would like to do. That was the end goal, but it seemed unattainable at the time.
“I applied to many of the MSc Physiotherapy degrees in Ireland, but what I found different with Portobello was their communication and genuine interest when I emailed and enquired.
“I didn’t feel like a number, I didn’t have to chase for a response or for additional information, everything was laid out clearly and the application and interview process was seamless.
“I did a lot of research and I finally found the master’s entry level to physiotherapy and I applied straight away.
“This master’s programme definitely feels like the right decision for me. I have been interested and engaged since day one and I am thoroughly enjoying all aspects of my studies so far.
“I am looking forward to seeing what year two has to offer, and I am looking back on year one with great placement experiences under my belt and an abundance of knowledge and new clinical skills,” she said.
Learning in a Supportive, Engaging Environment
Since joining Portobello Institute, Enya has found her confidence growing alongside her clinical skills.
The supportive learning environment, combined with hands-on experience and smaller class sizes, has helped her thrive.
“I have really enjoyed my time as a student at Portobello Institute. I have made friends for life, experienced real world physiotherapy experience, improved my confidence and overall gained knowledge and clinical skills to help me become the best physiotherapist I can be.
“The lecturers have been amazing, Mark, Andy, Anthony and Lee have been so helpful and knowledgeable, guiding us and preparing us for exams and placement by giving up extra hours for mentor sessions and study sessions.
“The smaller class sizes allow for great interaction, a relaxed environment and the practical sessions are very useful.
“It’s a balance of learning and also enjoyment. I would recommend Portobello Institute for its MSc Physiotherapy. The help and guidance you receive is next to none and the student – lecturer relationship is very genuine, they really want the best for you and for you to excel as a student!” she said.
Building Confidence Through Clinical Placement
Real-world experience has been at the core of Enya’s learning so far. She’s completed two work placements in both neurological and musculoskeletal settings, experiences that have already had a major impact on her development.
“So far I have completed two seven week blocks of placement which have been very rewarding and have given me the confidence I need working alongside physios and patients.
“I spent seven weeks remotely with The Health Academy, exploring many neurological conditions, their management strategies and treatment plans.
“My next seven week block, I worked closely with the physiotherapists at PhysioCare. I observed and worked with a wide variety of patients with both neurological and musculoskeletal issues.
“Overall, my experiences were positive and I have gained valuable clinical experience and knowledge over the 14 weeks of clinical placement. I am really looking forward to the next block of placement in the coming year!” she said.
Making a Real Impact in Patients’ Lives
Seeing the progress her patients made during placement confirmed for Enya that she was in the right profession.
“In such a rewarding field of work, it was amazing to see how you can impact a patient’s life over such a short period of time.
“Watching patients come in with limited mobility, lack of confidence and in pain to seeing them discharged with improved functional ability and independence is gratifying, and knowing you helped to facilitate their success is really fulfilling.
“I believe the confidence I have gained over the course of placement will stand to me in my future as a physiotherapist. Communicating in a confident, respectful and professional manner is key while working with diverse and complicated patient cases,” she said.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
Now heading into her second year, Enya is excited to continue developing her skills and to eventually specialise in women’s health and pelvic floor physiotherapy.
“Once I graduate, ideally I would like to go down the route of women’s health and pelvic floor physiotherapy. There are many opportunities within the HSE, private practices and even abroad! I love to travel so this would be a great chance to follow my passion,” she said.
She’s confident the experience and connections she’s gained at Portobello will serve her well.
“Having made many new friends, connections and career pathways, I think that graduating from Portobello Institute with a MSc in Physiotherapy and the skills and knowledge picked up will be full of opportunity and self-development,” she said.
The Right Choice
Looking back, Enya is certain she chose the right course, at the right time, in the right place for her.
Her story shows how the right course, in the right environment, can lay the foundation for a meaningful and rewarding healthcare career.
Portobello Institute’s MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration) equips you with the knowledge and skills to become a qualified physiotherapist, eligible for HCPC registration.
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