Svein Are Vatnehol

MSc Magnetic Resonance Imaging

“Why did you choose to study at Anglia Ruskin University?
Since I finished my BSc in radiography I found that MRI was the modality of my personal preference. The physics and advanced techniques attracted me. After one year of working as a radiographer I found that it was time to continue my education. With the help of my employer I started looking for education providers that would allow me to focus on MRI and result in an MSc. The people responsible for the course at Anglia Ruskin is well known and internationally respected. Therefore, this was the natural choice.

What initially attracted you to your course?
I've always been attracted to the technical and physics side of MRI as an imaging modality. The opportunity to develop my skills and potentially also start an academic career and start doing research was also very appealing.

Which aspects of your course do you enjoy most and why?
For me it was the possibility to develop my skills as an MRI technician beyond the common practice of 'button pusher'. I know feel that I have a deeper understanding of the physics behind MRI, and the evidence based reasoning to why the different MRI protocols are selected. The course had a high tempo, demanding that we worked hard for a prolonged time. Although frustrating as we worked with it, it is now enjoyable to think back and know that 'I can do this.'

Has the course met/exceeded your expectations? If so, how?
I experienced the course as consisting of different parts, and for each part I had different expectations. In regards to the physics of MRI the course met my expectations - I now have an increased knowledge of MRI. However this part might not have exceeded my expectations as I still do not feel that I'm an expert at the field. In regards of clinical use of the MRI-scanner the course exceeded my expectations. I now believe that I have an understanding of clinical decision-making, anatomy and clinical routines that is far beyond what I believed that I would achieve. Also an important aspect of this course is one that I did not think too much about beforehand: learning to do research. This aspect also exceeded my expectations, perhaps mostly because it triggered a love for research in me, and made me realise that this is something that I would love to continue doing.

Would you recommend your course to others?
Absolutely.

Please tell us about any special features that you have benefited from on your course.
The distance learning was a good method for me to study. It would have been impossible to attend this course, both financially and time wise, if it was mandatory to travel to the UK for course weeks or exams several times a year. It also made it possible to work full time at the same time as being a student, although this is not something that I recommend.

Are you currently employed, if so what is your job title?
Currently I work as an MRI-Radiographer in a research department in Norway. A job I believe that I might not have obtained without my degree from Anglia Ruskin.

Do you feel that your studies at Anglia Ruskin will help you in your current job?
Absolutely. Anglia Ruskin primed me for research, and enhanced my competence to such a degree, that although still an amateur, I am able to follow the technical and practical discussions in a high intense and advanced research department. I also feel confident in supplying my own views and suggestions knowing that they are based on knowledge and not whims.

What are your ambitions/plans for the future, and how do you feel that your course will help you to achieve these?
I really did not believe that I would continue my academic career after obtaining my BSc in radiography. Once I started on my MSc I was sure that this was going to be the final stop for me. Now that my MSc is completed my plans is to use my knowledge to help furthering our field. And I must admit, I do have a small ambition on someday (perhaps in the next few years) try to obtain a PhD.

How do you find fitting you studies around your outside commitments including work, family etc?
I choose to continue working full time while I was a student. For me that meant an average of 45-50hrs a week in clinical rotation. This was perhaps a poor choice as it meant that my social life was put on hold for three years. Luckily I had no spouse and no children so for me this was possible. I do however believe that if one is to reduce one's workload to 4 days a week, it would be possible to combine both studies work and social life. However the course is demanding, in a good way, so well structured work routines are important.

How would you sum up your experience of studying at Anglia Ruskin course so far?
As an alumnus my impressions are today only positive. Naturally there where hard times, times when I felt that it was simply too much, but the award was well worth it. I honestly feel proud when I tell people that I have completed a degree that, unfortunately, few of my peers have, and that I took it at Anglia Ruskin. A stuffed bear with the cape and hood from the Graduation ceremony still sits in my parent's sofa, and another one sits on the dashboard of my car.

The course material was great, the feedback from the teacher was good and educational, and today I have folders on folders with text that I have written that allows me to quickly check up on relevant issues whenever I feel the need.

Any other comments?
What I have said previously should indicate my experience was positive, and I suggest on a regular basis that my peers should continue their education. And if MRI is their field of interest they should consider MRI as their number one choice.


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