Balancing a Master’s Degree and a Chronic Condition
Graduating with a Master’s in Global Security and Borders from Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) while living with Ehlers‑Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a testament to what can be achieved when determination meets support. Caitlin Mannis, a student from Ballygowan, Co. Down, not only earned the highest grade in her cohort but also set a new benchmark for students with long‑term health conditions across the UK.
Understanding EDS and Its Impact on Academic Life
EDS is a genetic connective‑tissue disorder that can cause joint instability, chronic pain, and unpredictable flare‑ups. For many, the symptoms are invisible to others, which can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of accommodation. Caitlin’s experience highlights two key challenges:
- Physical fatigue and pain: Extended periods of sitting or typing can become exhausting.
- Unpredictability: Sudden pain episodes can interrupt study sessions and deadlines.
Strategies That Made a Difference
While each student’s situation is unique, Caitlin’s approach offers practical tactics that can be adapted to a wide range of chronic illnesses:
- Honest communication: She openly discussed her needs with supervisors, allowing for flexible deadlines and alternative assessment formats.
- Adaptive tools: A rolling desk and voice‑to‑text software reduced the strain of typing. Splints that doubled as jewellery helped maintain confidence while supporting joints.
- Routine adjustment: Instead of forcing a rigid schedule, she aligned her study blocks with periods of lower pain, using shorter, more frequent sessions.
- Support networks: QUB’s inclusive learning environment and peer groups provided emotional and academic backing.
Building a Supportive Academic Ecosystem
Institutions play a pivotal role in enabling students with chronic conditions to thrive. QUB’s approach can serve as a model for universities across the UK:
- Accessible facilities: Adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, and quiet study spaces reduce physical strain.
- Flexible assessment policies: Allowing alternative formats (e.g., oral presentations, recorded videos) can accommodate varying energy levels.
- Dedicated support staff: Disability advisors and health coordinators can coordinate accommodations and monitor progress.
- Peer mentorship: Connecting students with similar conditions fosters shared strategies and reduces isolation.
Actionable Advice for Students Facing Chronic Illness
1. Map Your Energy: Track days when you feel most alert and plan demanding tasks for those periods. Use a simple calendar or a digital app to log pain levels and fatigue.
2. Leverage Technology: Voice‑to‑text, screen readers, and ergonomic keyboards can reduce physical strain. Many universities offer free or discounted software for students with disabilities.
3. Communicate Early: Inform faculty and advisors about your condition before deadlines. Most institutions have formal accommodation procedures that can be activated with a medical certificate.
4. Build a Toolkit: Keep a “study kit” with items that help you stay comfortable—splints, ergonomic accessories, a small pillow for back support, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.
5. Prioritize Self‑Care: Schedule regular breaks, incorporate gentle stretching, and maintain a balanced diet. Mental health support services are often available on campus.
How QUB Supports Students with Chronic Conditions
Queen’s University Belfast offers a range of resources that can be accessed by all students, but are especially beneficial for those with long‑term health conditions:
- Disability Services: Provide individualized support plans and assistive technology.
- Health and Well‑Being Hub: Offers counseling, physiotherapy, and workshops on managing chronic pain.
- Flexible Learning Options: Online modules and recorded lectures allow students to study at their own pace.
- Peer Support Groups: Regular meetings where students share experiences and coping strategies.
Beyond Graduation: Continuing the Journey
After her Master’s, Caitlin transitioned into a PhD program at QUB, focusing on how gamified AI and personalized content can influence radicalisation among women and girls. Her trajectory illustrates that chronic illness does not limit future academic ambitions; rather, it can inform research that addresses real‑world challenges.
Key Takeaways for Prospective Students
- Academic excellence is achievable with the right support and self‑advocacy.
- Universities that prioritize accessibility and flexibility create environments where all students can succeed.
- Students with chronic conditions can turn their experiences into powerful research questions that benefit society.
Ready to Pursue Your Academic Goals?
Whether you’re considering a Master’s at QUB or another UK institution, remember that resilience and support are your strongest allies. Start by exploring the university’s disability services and speaking with an academic advisor about your needs.
Submit your application today and take the first step toward a future where your health and ambitions coexist.
Need More Guidance?
Schedule a free consultation with our admissions team to discuss how QUB can accommodate your specific needs and help you achieve your academic goals.
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Write to us at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help.
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Explore More Resources
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