Najma Mustafa
Najma Mustafa
When I first started the degree, I assumed the only job I'd be able to do would be teaching. Again, the content of my degree has shown me this isn't true.
”Najma is studying the BSc (Hons) Mathematics with Education here at Derby. She's currently in her third year and is on a work placement with the Operational Research department within the Department of Health, with a salary of just over £18000!
The placement
Working for one of the highest profile government departments, the placement is based in London. Najma's joined the analyst team working in the fast-moving areas of Cancer, Diabetes, CHD and Stroke whose work includes covering resource allocation, workforce planning, forecasting, performance measurement and strategic planning.
The department has made significant contributions to key areas such as NHS Direct and emergency planning for a flu pandemic. Using traditional operational research and computing tools as well as less traditional ones like systems dynamics modelling and scenario analysis, current work includes modelling new prevention policies that will avoid many strokes and heart attacks, analysis of productivity gains in cancer care and forecasting future radiotherapy demand.
Experience and knowledge
The vocationally relevant nature of the modules in my maths degree during my first and second years definitely helped me to secure this position. Mathematical Modelling, Time Series Analysis, Statistics, Operational Research and especially the Patterns of Problem Solving and Maths Group Project modules were vital as they helped me to get the relevant experience and knowledge I need in the workplace.
When I first started the degree, I assumed the only job I'd be able to do would be teaching. Again, the content of my degree has shown me this isn't true! The Maths Group Project, in conjunction with Bombardier Transportation in particular meant that I got an excellent overview of how a project was created, managed and delivered in a very short space of time. This module is essential in its relevance to good working practice: time management, team work and presentation skills to name a few.
Enthusiasm!
Marianne, Najma's line manager at the Operational Research department says "The reason we chose Najma for this placement was her enthusiasm for her chosen degree that came through in the interview. The breadth of the degree content that Najma was studying was also important as it meant that she had the skills and knowledge relevant to the position on offer."
