Rutu Dave, tutor for Diploma MSc on the Diabetes Team, shares her experiences and advice on overcoming academic writing anxiety.
After completing my Postgraduate diploma in dietetics I started working with an endocrinologist not knowing that the field of “diabetes education” existed. As I started working in this field, over a period of time I felt the need of formal education that would enhance my practical experience at work.
After reviewing a number of courses I decided to pursue the PG diploma course with Diploma MSc. They offered a structured well-planned curriculum and an opportunity to experience global interaction, which interested me. Most importantly it offered flexibility to pursue a masters degree which I hope will help me plan my Ph.D program.
“Having my first paper published through this course helped me overcome academic writing anxiety”
I found the course work to be very difficult at first. I struggled because my earlier education did not involve evidence-based writing or referencing. However, as time passed and with a lot of motivation and assistance from the tutors, I was able to grasp the system. I was delighted when a colleague asked me to co-write a paper.
Having had the thought, we turned to our course director for further guidance. They helped and encouraged us in every way, from establishing contact with the publishing journal to critically reviewing the proposed paper. They mentored and guided us through the whole process.
When I enrolled into the course I had no idea about the opportunities it would provide me with. Having my first paper published through this course helped me overcome academic writing anxiety.
Rutu Dave currently works as a Diabetes educator in a PVT clinic with an endocrinologist and in a hospital.
Rutu has since progressed to the MSc, graduating in March 2017. She now tutors for Diploma MSc on the Diabetes Team.