Every healthcare professional’s journey is unique, filled with both challenges and triumphs. Sanjith Kumar, a nurse from Kerala, India, shares his inspiring story of perseverance and success.
Early career and ambitions
Sanjith's passion for healthcare began early in life, and after working in the healthcare system in India, he set his sights on a master’s degree in international management in the UK.
In October 2010, he arrived in Manchester, ready to pursue his dreams. In a moment of recollection, he recalls that while the dark and wintry weather was a shock, he was still driven to achieve his goals in England. Sanjith worked as a healthcare assistant while completing his MBA. Despite his dedication to his studies, he faced significant challenges with the IELTS exam.
"I took IELTS three or four times but couldn’t pass. The topics for the writing assessment were obscure things like art or drama, and not my field of expertise." - Sanjith Kumar
This experience led him to seek an alternative path.
Discovering OET and furthering his career
Sanjith's journey took a positive turn when he discovered the OET Test, an assessment specifically designed for healthcare professionals. The healthcare-focused content of OET aligned perfectly with his knowledge and skills, making it a more suitable choice for him.
"If you want to work in any country that accepts OET as a benchmark, go for it," he advises.
Sanjith prepared for test day while juggling his studies and part-time job as a healthcare assistant. The OET’s emphasis on medical language and scenarios gave him the confidence he needed to succeed, and gave him confidence for his future, “IELTs wasn’t to my advantage as it wasn’t even helping me build up my vocabulary, like OET could.”
After thorough self-study and using available resources, Sanjit passed the OET and began the process of obtaining his UK visa and nursing registration.
Navigating the challenges of a new culture
Sanjith's journey wasn't without personal challenges. Adjusting to a new culture and dealing with loneliness were significant hurdles.
"The hardest part was the time difference. Calling my family back in India was tough, and I often felt isolated," he recalls.
This initial period took a toll on his mental health, but he found solace in the support systems available within the NHS. For internationally trained healthcare professionals, Sanjith advises the following:
"It can be tough at first, but support is available. Try to connect with other international professionals and find out about support systems that are in place.” - Sanjith Kumar
Having navigated those challenges and built a support system to continue to navigate life in a different culture, Sanjith proudly advocates for other international healthcare workers, co-chairing staff networking events to support colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
Looking ahead
Sanjith's career in the UK progressed steadily. He started as a nurse and eventually moved into critical care as a staff nurse. His dedication and passion for clinical governance and education led him to a role where he looks after student nurses and allied health and medical students at Manchester Medical School.
"My interest in progression and my passion for clinical governance led me to a role where I could incorporate my knowledge of hospitals, management skills, and analytical skills," Sanjith says. His expertise and commitment earned him a position as a clinical governance and risk manager.
"I like the role because it has a real impact on making care better for the community and for patient safety, and I enjoy problem-solving."
Reflecting on his journey, Sanjith offers valuable advice for future OET candidates to choose an assessment that plays to their strengths and will help them build foundational knowledge for their future:
“Don't waste time. If you want to work in any country where OET is accepted, go for it with confidence.” - Sanjith Kumar
Whether you're headed to the UK like Sanjith or the USA, Australia or New Zealand, OET can help you get there. Book your OET Test today.