Caley Parnell
- Country / region
- United Kingdom
- Programme
- Leadership in Sport Degree
Caley has enjoyed the variety of topics covered and the range of assessments which have stretched and challenged their thinking.
My journey to Loughborough University London
I was always really interested in the subject area, and I felt that this master’s would be extremely useful and applicable in my current job where I lead on Strategy, Data and Insights for the Learning Division within the Football Association (FA). It was a bonus that the course was offered by Loughborough London University as I had such a good experience studying for my previous masters in the Psychology of Sport and Exercise at Loughborough University.
The application process was relatively straightforward and useful in terms of providing an opportunity to put some real time and thought into how this course would benefit my current role and career aspirations.
Teaching at Loughborough University London
The biggest challenge has been studying alongside full-time work. However, I have particularly benefited and appreciated the option to complete the master’s part-time over 2 years, which has allowed me to take a break between modules. It has also enabled me to get really immersed in the different module topics, all of which I have found fascinating and therefore I have enjoyed researching and reading more.
Career Development
Studying Leadership in Sport has helped me feel more confident as an individual and a leader. I have been able to draw upon my bolstered critical thinking skills when solving strategic problems and making critical decisions as a senior leader. I cannot emphasise enough how useful this programme of study has been for my career – it is designed to be relevant and applicable in the working world of sport and I have been able to put into practice what I have learned pretty much straight after if not during each module.
The master’s has particularly helped to strengthen my critical thinking skills. This has been encouraged in different ways by all of the lecturers and it has been invaluable in applying this during the lectures and for the assessments, which all have had relevance to my current role.
Balancing Study with Employment
I have been able to work full-time alongside studying my masters. Being able to spread the modules out over 2 years has really helped, but it has at times been challenging to balance work, study and family life as a mum to 3-year-old twins. Time management and organisational skills have been critical, and I have needed to be strict and disciplined with my time. I have also sought support from others, both on the course and in my personal and professional life which has been really helpful. Ultimately, I am a firm believer in there never being a perfect time but if you are interested and engaged in something and can see the value and applicability of it, you can find the time.
My Course Highlights
It might be cliché, but it is hard to identify one highlight. I have enjoyed the variety of topics we have covered, being taught by different lecturers with differing styles and the range of assessments which have stretched and challenged my thinking.
Meeting and getting to know other people on the course provided a useful support network. I also enjoyed hearing different perspectives and engaging in lively debate as well as getting to visit a range of inspirational venues around the UK.