Mel Mortimer wins the Society's Student of the Year Award (diagnostic) 2008.
The winners of the inaugural SoR Student of the Year Award have been announced.
Ipswich Hospital radiographer and University Campus Suffolk (UCS) graduate Mel Mortimer has won the Student of Year diagnostic competition. The therapy prize has been won by Kate Claxton, a graduate from UWE.
Mel, a mature student, is an NHS veteran and has worked at the hospital for 13 years. However, three years ago she decided to swap her administration role for a clinical position.
Mel said: "Having worked in medical secretarial and administrative roles at Ipswich Hospital, I decided I wanted a career change that would allow me more involvement with patient care. It was definitely the right move for me. I love the combination of using technical skills, having direct patient contact and working as part of a team. Now my 19-year-old daughter is following in my footsteps and starting the course."
Mel graduated from UCS with a BSc (Hons) degree and was awarded the local Monro Prize for her dissertation. It was her lecturers and fellow students who nominated her for the national award.
Kate Claxton, who has scooped the accolade of Student of the Year (therapeutic radiotherapy), achieved a first class honours degree at University of West of England.
Programme leader Janette Chianese nominated Kate, praising her excellent communication skills with patients and team members, high level of professionalism and her commitment.
According to Janette, Kate also found time to help others on her course. She explained: "Kate has also provided encouragement and support for some of her peer group on the radiotherapy programme who were struggling with certain aspects of study."
Kate said: “I have always been interested in oncology and I'm looking forward to pursuing my career as a radiographer. I am very happy to win this award but I would like to thank the team at UWE for all the help and support I received during my training.
Both Kate and Mel with be presented with their awards at a ceremony held at the House of Commons on 6 November.
The prize is a cheque for £250 and a digital camera, from award sponsors Fujifilm.
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