Case studies : Audiologist: Kim

Kim currently works as an audiologist for the NHS. She says that the experience gained from her year-long placement has been of great value.

Kim wanted a career that offered something different which would challenge and stretch her more than other career options available to her. Through the Department of Health she became aware of audiology. Her interest was aroused. She undertook a period of work experience and liked what audiology entailed. Her initial curiosity led her to apply through the NHS website and use her contacts to secure her current position as a clinical scientist (audiology) with the NHS at Tower Hamlets PCT.

Her current role is quite varied and demanding. Kim conducts hearing tests in ENT (ear, nose and throat) clinics, issues digital hearing aids, and conducts speech tests. She mainly assesses adults but also assesses paediatric patients. The wide variety of patients she meets keeps Kim on her toes and ensures she is challenged daily.

Of vital importance, Kim says, was the experience she gained from her year-long placement where all practical experience was attained. She has been able to put her audiology knowledge and theory into practice and to gain immense job satisfaction from seeing the results immediately and first-hand.

Kim feels that she has made an excellent career choice which matches what she is looking for from a career – a challenge, daily variety, and immediate job satisfaction. She enjoys every part of her job and hopes one day to specialise in one particular sector.