Graduating from ARU as an International Alumnus and Working for the NHS: A Journey of Music Therapy and Resilience

Graduating from ARU has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. As an international student from the States, studying in the UK was both a dream and a challenge that pushed me out of my comfort zone in ways I never imagined. I pursued my Master’s in Music Therapy, a field that combines my passion for music with my desire to help others heal and improve their well-being. Now, as a graduate on the UK’s Graduate Visa, I’m proud to be working for the NHS, where I apply my skills to hopefully make a difference in people’s lives.

Studying Music Therapy and Navigating the Graduate Visa Route

Choosing to study Music Therapy at ARU was one of the best decisions I’ve made. The programme is incredibly comprehensive, offering not just theoretical knowledge but also hands-on clinical training and placements. This blend of practice and theory allowed me to deepen my understanding of how music can be used as a therapeutic tool to assist people with a variety of mental health issues, learning disabilities, neurological conditions, and more.

Coming from the States, adapting to life in the UK took time. Navigating cultural differences, academic expectations, and the occasional homesickness was challenging, but ARU’s supportive environment made a huge difference. I found the faculty approachable and invested in our success, while the international student services provided a community of like-minded peers. Those connections gave me the confidence to embrace every opportunity and challenge that came my way.

Music therapy is a unique field, and ARU’s facilities and resources were essential to my development. The music studios, therapy rooms, and placement opportunities allowed me to work with diverse populations, honing my skills in clinical settings under the supervision of experienced therapists.

After completing my Master’s degree, the question of "what next?" loomed. Like many international students, I wanted to stay in the UK and work, to not only gain professional experience but also explore the UK and Europe further. Fortunately, the UK’s Graduate Visa programme provided the perfect opportunity. Once approved, it opened doors for me to start my professional career in the UK.

Securing a Job in the NHS: From Classroom to Clinical Practice

As a graduate in Music Therapy, my aim was always to work in healthcare, and the NHS was at the top of my list. I felt it would provide a diverse and dynamic environment in which I could apply my skills to support those most in need, and I enjoyed my two NHS clinical placements while a student.

The job application process wasn’t easy, but persistence paid off. I applied to various roles in health services and was eventually offered a position as a Mental Health Practitioner at the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust with their Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services.

Personal Growth and Future Aspirations

Being an international alumnus of ARU and a professional within the NHS has brought tremendous personal growth. Not only have I developed professionally, but I’ve also grown as an individual. Navigating the complexities of being an international graduate, from visa challenges to adapting to a new work culture, has made me more resilient and adaptable.

I’ve also had the opportunity to connect with other international alumni from ARU, which has fostered a sense of global community. We share our experiences, challenges, and successes, and this network has become an invaluable resource for advice and support.

Looking ahead, I am eager to continue building my career in the NHS and beyond in healthcare and hospital settings. The Graduate Visa has given me the flexibility to gain valuable work experience, and ultimately, I hope to take what I’ve learned here back to the States at some point and contribute to the growth of music therapy as a recognised and impactful form of treatment.

Conclusion

Graduating from ARU has been a life-changing experience that has set me on a path I am proud of. As an international alumnus now working in the NHS, I feel grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and excited for the future. My journey has been one of growth, adaptation, and perseverance, and I encourage current and future international students to embrace their experiences fully. There will be challenges along the way, but with determination and the right support, the rewards are immense.

The combination of my education, the Graduate Visa, and my role in the NHS has not only enriched my life but also allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of others. It’s an experience I will carry with me for the rest of my life.