Rahema Begum

• Year of graduation: 2024
• Current job title: Quality Technician
• Current employer: STERIS IMS
• Industry sector: Healthcare/Life Sciences

Meet Rahema Begum, a Biomedical Science graduate who has turned her passion for science into a career in the healthcare sector. After graduating from the University of Northampton in 2024, Rahema secured a role as a Quality Technician at STERIS IMS, where she plays a vital part in ensuring the safety and quality of medical instruments. Through hands-on laboratory experience, mentoring opportunities, and support from university programmes, Rahema built the confidence, technical skills, and resilience needed to transition successfully into a professional scientific environment.

What are some of your favourite memories from your time at the University of Northampton?

I really valued my time at the University of Northampton and look back at it fondly. It gave me the opportunity to build strong friendships where we supported and motivated each other, whilst having fun. I enjoyed being able to gain knowledge during classes, developing both academically and as an individual through assignments that pushed me out of my comfort zone. I was inspired by the passion and knowledge of my professors; it made me excited to further my own career and explore different paths available. My favourite memory would be presenting my Dissertation Poster at the Annual Student Conference, I felt proud of my work and gained a lot of confidence and passion for science through the experience.

Can you tell us about your current role and what a typical day looks like?

As a Quality Technician, I am involved in inspecting medical instruments to ensure a standard of quality. I record my inspection results and identify non-conformances that must be further investigated. I also collaborate with team members, supporting to solve quality issues.

What experiences or opportunities helped shape your career after graduating from the University of Northampton?

Through the University of Northampton, I had the opportunity to join the Windsor Fellowship Graduate Destination STEM Pilot Programme which supported my personal and professional development. My mentor encouraged me to reach out for opportunities, improve my CV and interview skills. I reached out to a professor who very kindly recommended me for a job opportunity which I will always be very grateful for, this allowed me to gain key experience.

How did the University support your career development while you were a student?

We were able to do the Changemaker Award and Employability Award; we also had a career fair as well. We had many laboratory sessions to gain practical skills which were important to have a career in Science, as well as presentation style assignments that helped speaking skills and gaining confidence.

What motivated you to get involved in mentoring students through the Student Futures programme?

I was very appreciative of my mentor from the Windsor Fellowship Programme, this left a huge impact on me and so I wanted to support other students who may have felt the same. I also thought this was a valuable opportunity to continue my personal and professional growth, pushing me outside my comfort zone to gain confidence and build upon my leadership skills.

What advice would you give to students who want to pursue a similar career path?

I would like to encourage them to keep going, you can do it! Classes and assignments may feel overwhelming, just take it a step at the time. Make sure to take regular breaks and try to section out your work, avoid procrastination! Take pride in your work so you don’t have regrets. Push yourself to do those opportunities that might feel unfamiliar and keep growing as a person. Most importantly, enjoy your time as the course will be over before you know it!

What are your ambitions for the next stage of your career?

I would like to keep growing, develop new skills and push myself to aim for opportunities that build my confidence. I would like to develop my knowledge in Science and strengthen my leadership skills.