My Plus is ensuring my professional and academic goals also meet the needs of my body

I have always relished being in the detail of ‘big’ ideas, and I had, therefore, wanted to go to university for as long as I can remember. During my first year though, I was not well. A lecturer suggested meeting with the University’s ‘Disability Adviser’ and I replied, ‘What on earth for?’ It was the first time anyone had spoken the word ‘disability’ to me.

I have Phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic condition, which I now manage with a low protein diet, many daily tablets, and a wonderful medical team on speed dial. When I graduated, I built a career in the NHS and then human resources management whilst completing three more postgraduate degrees.

I like to challenge myself, so I don’t stay anywhere people have lower expectations of me than I have of myself.

This mind-set generally leads me to employers who value and develop me.

I often hear resistance to the statement that a disability ‘defines’ someone, but PKU does defines me; it is in my very genes! It is only by considering everything through a ‘PKU lens’ that I make sensible decisions about what I do and don’t take on. The achievements I am most proud of have been realised when I have consciously aligned my goals with what my body needs.

I am now doing my PhD. My ambition is to be a Doctor of Philosophy, and I am excited about my continued career in policy and research.

My Plus is ensuring my professional and academic goals also meet the needs of my body.

Angela Matthews is currently doing a PhD is theology and law at the University of Kent. She also works as an Advice Service and Policy Manager at Business Disability Forum.

Related topics

At MyPlus Students’ Club we have a range of blogs related to this topic, to read further click on the relevant link below:

5 tips to help you prepare for work with a rare condition

Emma Acheson-Gray – rare congenital disorder

Preparing for success in a competitive job market

Working with a rare condition