Reflecting on my placement year at FSL -Sophie Nash

I’m Sophie, a 3rd year Sport and Exercise Science BSc student at the University of Bath. This year I’ve been on placement working as a research assistant at the Feminist Sport Lab.

FSL has members all over the world from interdisciplinary backgrounds, including academics in a range of subjects, sports medicine physicians, physiotherapists, anthropologists and athletes to name a few. All with the shared vision of making sport more inclusive and accessible for everyone. As a research assistant I have been able to work alongside FSL members on group projects and learn from their expertise. 

My Placement experience has enhanced my academic and research skills, especially critical reading and analysis. I’ve been able to learn and apply qualitative research methods, including how to conduct a policy analysis. I have also been supported to conduct a research project in a chosen area of interest with the guidance of lab co-directors Sheree and Stephen. I have learnt so much from working closely alongside them and from their expertise as senior academics within sports science and philosophy. 

Public speaking is a big challenge for me, I’ve been able to push myself outside of my comfort zone with public speaking and presentations and feel more confident approaching these settings going forward. I’ve also been able to apply myself creatively through website design and social media content creation. 

My biggest piece of advice for those completing a placement year as part of their degree would be to get stuck in and not be afraid to ask questions to develop your knowledge and understanding.