Anonymous, Human Rights MA
Any student will tell you how difficult it can be to juggle studying with other commitments. Many are working, joining societies, volunteering, or have family commitments, while also maintaining a social life, eating, sleeping…the list goes on.
Now imagine doing all of that, but with a disability.
I’m a part-time postgraduate student of Human Rights. I work full-time. I’m passionate about politics, I’m an activist, and I’ve volunteered with vulnerable children. I also have cystic fibrosis.
What life looks like with Cystic Fibrosis
If you Google cystic fibrosis, you’ll see that it’s an inherited condition that severely and progressively affects the lungs and other organs. You might see articles about lung transplants, expensive treatments, the short life expectancy, and photos of thin people in hospital beds. But there’s a bit more to life with CF than that.
I’m lucky. As a UK citizen, I have access to great treatment and medicines via the NHS. Nonetheless, having CF is a chore. I take dozens of tablets every day, use a nebuliser once a day, and do 30 minutes of physiotherapy. It’s tricky balancing this with work and studies, but my health is a priority.
Studying with CF
Unlike others, I’ve been able to work and study despite CF, but it’s not easy. In an average week I manage my condition in between working, and still have to find time to do my reading, assignments, and other activities. I’m able to tackle this is by making and sticking to a solid routine. It takes motivation and quite a lot of discipline, but I love the course I’m studying so I make it work.
Being able to study part-time has been crucial. Having less classes in a week takes some of the pressure off and gives me time to actually relax in between everything else. Otherwise, I would’ve definitely burned out by now!
Managing costs
Being a student with a health condition is expensive. I have more than 10 prescriptions to pay for every month. That certainly stings when I’ve already paid rent, tuition fees, and anything else! Then there are smaller costs that also add up, like travelling to appointments, and taking more transport when my lung function isn’t good.
I’m supporting myself through my studies, which is why I’m working full time while studying part time. I’m grateful that this is an option at UCL, otherwise postgraduate study wouldn’t be possible for someone like me.
Getting support
During my final Undergraduate year, I caught a bad infection that sent my lung function down to only 23%. I spent nearly two months in hospital when I was meant to be finishing my dissertation.
At the time, I was embarrassed about having an illness, and I didn’t tell my university. I ended up writing it mostly from hospital and did well, but looking back, I should have reached out to support from the disability team. If you’re in a similar situation, don’t be as stubborn as I was! The support is there for a reason.