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Award-winning radiography graduate turns personal health journey into a mission to help others.
Erin Graham pictured with her award at graduation
University news / Student news
Wednesday 19 November 2025
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An award-winning Coventry University graduate is using her personal experience with scoliosis to inspire and support others.
Erin Graham, 21, from Belfast, graduated with first-class honours in Diagnostic Radiography and was named Midlands Radiography Learner of the Year at the Radiography Awards in November.
Her interest in radiography began at age 13, after undergoing spinal surgery to correct scoliosis - a condition that causes curvature of the spine. Seeing her own X-rays sparked a fascination with medical imaging and a desire to give back to the profession that helped her.
Now starting her first NHS role as a radiographer in Oxford, Erin is passionate about raising awareness of scoliosis and supporting others going through similar experiences.
I wouldn’t have pursued this career if I hadn’t gone through scoliosis myself.
Erin Graham, Coventry University graduate and Midlands Radiography Learner of the Year
There’s definitely a part of me that wants to give back.
Erin focused her final-year dissertation on spinal X-rays for scoliosis. As part of her research, she created a tutorial to help fellow students better understand the condition, earning praise from peers who said it helped deepen their learning.
This work helped her win the award, achieving high scores for creating meaningful benefits for both her peers and the wider radiography community.
I’m proud to have turned something difficult into something positive.
Erin Graham, Coventry University graduate and Midlands Radiography Learner of the Year
I had a big operation when I was younger but now I’m pain-free and able to help others - and that makes it all worth it.
Erin was nominated for the award by her tutor, diagnostic radiography lecturer Sarah Eades, who praised her dedication, growth, and the strong impression she made during her NHS placement in Inverness.
Erin has been consistently attentive, hardworking and engaged throughout her studies.
Sarah Eades, lecturer in diagnostic radiography at Coventry University
Her placement feedback was outstanding, her research earned her a first, but her personal growth is what truly stands out. She began the course in 2022 as a very shy student, and by her final year she was confidently sharing her experiences with first-year students - something she never imagined doing when she started.
Originally from Belfast, Erin made the leap to Coventry on her own and admits the transition was challenging at first.
It was a big jump.
Erin Graham, Coventry University graduate and Midlands Radiography Learner of the Year
Adjusting to a new place and starting the course was a lot but as I settled in, I enjoyed it more and more.
Reflecting on winning the award, Erin said:
When Sarah told me, I was like - me?! I was shocked. You hear about things like this but never think it’ll be you. I’m really chuffed.
Erin Graham, Coventry University graduate and Midlands Radiography Learner of the Year
Her advice to others considering university and moving away from home is simple:
Put everything into it - the more you give, the more you get back.
Erin Graham, Coventry University graduate and Midlands Radiography Learner of the Year
The Radiography Awards has become a well-established celebration of the profession and of good practice in all aspects of radiography. Organised by the Society of Radiographers every year, it celebrates the stand-out individuals, teams, and students from across the UK who have made a positive difference to patient care, service delivery, or those who have excelled academically.
Find out more about the Radiography Awards and how to start your career in Diagnostic Radiography.
