Haleemah’s Journey into Audiology

Discovering Audiology

Haleemah wasn’t initially aware of audiology until she had to choose a university course. She knew she wanted to work in healthcare but wasn’t sure which path to take. “Audiology is a really niche part of healthcare. I wasn’t really aware of it myself until sort of you have to go to university and sort of decide what you want to do,” she explained. She discovered audiology while exploring university courses and was drawn to its blend of healthcare and technology.

Education and Placement

Haleemah studied at De Montfort University, where she completed a three-year BSc in Audiology. During her second year, she had the opportunity to choose between an NHS placement and an interview with Specsavers. She opted for the Specsavers interview and was placed in Bicester, Oxfordshire, for her placement. “I got the best of both worlds essentially, sort of looking at the NHS also looking at what the private side has to offer”. The placement provided her with essential patient-facing interactions and helped develop skills in explaining different types of hearing aids and how they’re suited to patients. “You never know how you’re going to deal with a situation until you have that patient in front of you,” she emphasised. At University, she helped launch the audiology society which provided some amazing opportunities collaborating with optometry and audiology students. They were also able to attend conferences including Specsavers PAC and the BSHAA roadshow.

Working with Specsavers

Haleemah’s placement at Specsavers was a turning point. The potential for career progression solidified her decision to join permanently after her placement. “I just saw how easy it is to progress through sort of the ranks in Specsavers as well,” she noted, highlighting the supportive environment she experienced with Specsavers Bicester.  Specsavers also aligned with Haleemah’s sustainability passions with commitments around sustainability including the ‘Rewear’ range. She’s excited about the future and the possibility of progressing through Specsavers’ Pathway program to become a business owner. 

Making a Difference

One of the most rewarding aspects of Haleemah’s job is seeing the immediate impact of her work on patients’ lives. She enjoys witnessing patients’ reactions when they realise how much hearing aids can improve their quality of life. “You see that transformation in the room, sort of from being so isolated to being, ‘Oh, my God, I can hear that now,’” she shared. The transformation from isolation to being able to hear every day sounds is a real source of pride.

Advice for Aspiring Audiologists

For those considering a career in audiology, Haleemah emphasises the importance of compassion, empathy, and problem-solving skills. She encourages individuals interested in healthcare, technology, and patient care to explore audiology, highlighting the continuity of care and the satisfaction of helping patients improve their hearing. “If you’re somebody who likes to sort of see a patient through from the beginning to the end, see that final outcome, I’d say audiology is really good for that.,”

Personal Interests

Outside of work, Haleemah is an avid runner and enjoys yoga. She also loves watching series and participating in a running club at work, where she enjoys some friendly competition with her colleagues.  Haleemah’s journey into audiology and her experiences with Specsavers showcase her dedication to patient care and her enthusiasm for the field.