ROle Models
ANDREA CHAPMAN
Job Title: Application Support Brachytherapy
Disability: Dominant Optic atrophy
Bio: I really fell into Radiotherapy as I was looking for something to cater for my passion of Chemistry and Biology. I saw an advert for the training in Guildford near me and was captivated with I went to the hospital and saw all the Radiotherapy machines and Radiographers. My favourite classes at school and college were Chemistry and Biology and so Radiotherapy was great as it involved the science side of knowledge. I have always loved helping people too so Hospital work is so good for this.
What’s your favourite thing about your job or about working in STEM?
Fascinating people and minds! My colleagues and customers have incredible minds. I love to share thoughts and ideas and I also love to help people who are having issues with the software that we provide. A thank you at the end of a call makes it all worthwhile and makes me feel proud of myself for helping someone.
As my disability is my eyesight, I work on a Helpdesk and so anyone calling me doesn’t see or know my issue with my eyes as my company assist me with large monitors and magnifiers to help me. It’s great to be able to work in a field that you have a passion for.
What are your top tips for a disabled young person interested in STEM as a career?
You are a perfect example of you!
Realise what you need from others to assist you. Have a few words that describe your disability and what people can do to help you. For example; “I have an eye condition called Dominant Optic Atrophy. No laser or eye treatment can help. Only Stem cell rejuvenation is the way forward for me. They are mastering this in China at present for blind people and will get to my issue soon. I need large text and monitors for work and magnifiers help me in normal day to day life.”
This means you take control and tell people who you are, what your condition is and how they can help you. This will make the person you are with also feel better and less “embarrassed”. It’s great to be proactive and open as people really do want to help. Own your disability and be proud.
Be proud of who you are. You are an amazing soul and your body is your vessel to transport it. Some of us have more challenges with this, but always go for your dreams as they can really come reality.