UNIVERSITY of Teesside graduates Graeme Dowson and Steven Burns share global ambitions, as they are planning to use their radiography skills to work around the world.

Graeme, 22, and Steven, 21, are both from Normanby, Middlesbrough, and achieved their BSc (Hons) degrees in diagnostic radiography from the university last summer. They are now working as radiographers in Manchester.

Graeme and Steven both attended Eston Park Secondary School and South Park Sixth Form College at the same time, but first became friends at university.

Graeme is following in the family tradition by pursuing a medical career, as his mother Julie and late Aunt Marjorie Abott went into nursing.

He came to the university with three A-levels in computer studies, English language and social biology.

Graeme said: "I first thought about radiography when I went on placement to South Cleveland General Hospital at the age of 17.

"There was a friendly atmosphere and it seemed rewarding to work with sick people. The degree gave a good grounding, particularly the anatomy and physiology modules, which are invaluable when looking at X-rays.

"We also completed 60 weeks of hospital placements, which gave me the practical confidence to do this job. In the future I'd like to work as a radiographer in Australia and Canada."

Steven gained A-levels in social biology, sports studies and statistics before enrolling at the university.

He said: "I've always been interested in science and medicine. The course was hard work, combining the placements with academic work, but it was worth sticking with. I've now got skills I can use all over the country and the world.

"Being a radiographer is fulfilling, knowing that you've made a difference to someone's life.

"I'd like to work in Canada, and later in a more specialised field of radiography."

For more information on the degree in diagnostic radiography call 01642 384110 or 01642 384113, or check the web site at www.tees.ac.uk