MA Professional Practice graduate excels in the field of Post-Menopause research

Katie Day, an experienced professional in training and development, has successfully completed an MA in Professional Practice from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. This academic achievement marks a significant milestone in her career, reflecting both her dedication to personal growth and her commitment to advancing her field.

Katie said the programme, under the Professional Practice Framework (PPF), enabled her to explore how her experience of starting a business and acquiring new skills has shaped her approach to training. She said:

“The course allowed me to acknowledge the depth of knowledge I’ve gained over the years, something I had always taken for granted.”

This has empowered her to share her experiences with the women she works with, particularly in the context of post-menopause, highlighting the possibilities that this stage of life can offer.

This has empowered and encouraged her to share the MA journey with the women she works with, clearly demonstrating that, post-menopause, life offers a wealth of possibilities and opportunities.

Katie said her MA has enhanced her position as an expert in menopause training, a field she has been dedicated to for many years. She adds:

“Having the Masters helps position me as one of the ‘experts’ in the field and supports me in terms of recognition, trust and confidence with others.”

The course also prompted Katie to reassess her training methods, allowing her to make adjustments that benefit both her clients and herself. Despite over 30 years of experience in delivering training, Katie found that the course provided new opportunities for growth and development.

“Completing the MA has shown me that, when I focus and put my mind to something, there is very little I, or indeed anyone else, is unable to achieve. It represented a huge personal milestone and proved that post-menopause offers women a myriad of opportunities, should they wish to grab hold of them and investigate which are the right ones for them.”

Running her own business presented unique challenges and opportunities throughout the course.

Katie added:

“The impact on my work was significant. Balancing the demands of the course with my business responsibilities was challenging, but it also provided valuable insights that I have incorporated into my training sessions.”

Katie said she had discovered new skills through the course, particularly in research, time management, and academic writing.

“Stretching my mental capacity to write at a Level 7 academic standard was a new and challenging experience. However, it was incredibly satisfying to develop this new way of thinking and writing,” she said.

The MA was designed to accommodate Katie’s needs within her workplace.

“Running my own business meant that I did not have to ‘run it past’ anyone in terms of negotiating time to complete the requirements of the degree. It was down to me to juggle and manage my time and the demands of the business.”

This flexibility, coupled with the support of her business partner, allowed Katie to successfully manage her time successfully and complete the degree.

Katie describes the MA in Professional Practice as a life-changing experience.

“It was difficult.  It’s meant to be: it’s an MA. However, the sense of achievement was huge. It represents an opportunity to challenge yourself, with the amazing support of the University and everyone within it. We never truly know what we might be capable of unless we try.”

“Whilst there were times I questioned if I could continue and complete it, I am so pleased that I pushed through those doubts.  I am delighted to know that I have an MA (with Distinction!), as this is something that, at the beginning of the journey, I doubted I was capable of.”

Katie expresses her deep gratitude to the entire PPF team at UWTSD for their support during her studies.

“Studying for the MA at UWTSD was like being part of a large family where every member had your back and was rooting for your success. I always felt heard and supported, by everyone from my amazing tutors to all the admin staff and the people in the library. There were times when it felt like I was the only student, such was the focus and support I received.”

Sarah Loxdale, Senior Lecturer in the PPF team at UWTSD said:

“Katie’s journey through the MA in Professional Practice has been nothing short of inspiring. Her ability to balance the demands of her business, while excelling in her studies is a testament to her determination and passion for personal and professional growth. Katie’s commitment to expanding her expertise, particularly in the field of menopause training, is incredibly valuable, and we are proud to have been a part of her journey.”

Lowri Harris, Senior Lecturer in the PPF team said:

“Katie’s achievements reflect the transformative nature of the Professional Practice Framework. Her work within her business and her dedication to enhancing her skills have not only enriched her professional practice, but also the communities she serves. It has been a privilege to support Katie throughout her MA, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact her expertise will continue to have in her field.”

Katie looks forward to continuing her academic journey with a Doctorate in Professional Practice (DProf) at UWTSD. Her research project has already influenced her work, leading to new courses like “The Menopause Mind” and fostering collaborations with medical experts.