The European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) Early Career Network (ECN) Masterclass event
About me
Hi, I’m Daisy, a 2nd-year PhD student at Sheffield Hallam University. My research project works alongside the ENHANCE project and explores whether (and if so, how) engagement with Complications from Excess Weight (CEW) clinics is supported amongst children, young people and their families from ethnic minority backgrounds.
I recently attended the ECN Masterclass event in Cascais, Portugal, organised by EASO. Below, I have reflected on my experience and answered some key questions.
What was my motivation for applying for the Masterclass?
The Masterclass aligned perfectly with my research focus. The programme involved 3 days of lectures and interactive workshops, providing an excellent opportunity to enhance my understanding of obesity-related research and practice.
What were the key highlights of the Masterclass?
I found all the sessions valuable and interesting, but a few stood out for me:
· Opening session delivered by guest speakers from the European Coalition for People living with Obesity (ECPO), focusing on “Living with Obesity: Personal Journeys and Youth Perspectives”. Hearing from two young people share their personal experiences of living with obesity was very thought-provoking. Their honesty reinforced the importance of patient and public involvement (PPI) in research and provided me with much to consider for my own research.
· Dr Grace O’Malley’s session on inequalities in child and adolescent obesity: Her discussion of inequalities relates to my own research, so her insights were not only relevant but also very useful in helping me think about my own project.
How will I apply the learnings to my work and the ENHANCE project?
The learnings from the event will be very useful for my work, especially around understanding patient experiences and addressing inequalities. The Masterclass highlighted the need for inclusive, accessible healthcare services, a significant focus of my own research. The new connections I made may also support future collaborations and help disseminate the ENHANCE findings.
What was the most challenging experience at the Masterclass?
Presenting my research poster in just one minute was really challenging! But it was a valuable experience. I had only a short time to summarise my work, which pushed me to highlight the key points as clearly as possible. I also received some really helpful questions and feedback that have given me a lot to think about!
Would I recommend the Masterclass?
Absolutely! It was a great experience, and I would definitely recommend it. I really enjoyed the chance to learn and chat with new people. I really enjoyed listening to all the guest speakers and experienced researchers, as well as talking about my own research and the ENHANCE project!
Click here to see my poster!