Francesca Dixon

I had the incredible opportunity to attend UKIO 2025 as a student correspondent for the Society of Radiographers, and it all started at the society’s Annual Student Conference. I hadn’t expected it at the time, but attending that event opened the door to one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences.

At the student conference, I learned about the chance to become a student correspondent. It sounded like the perfect blend of my interests – radiography, and connecting with others – so I applied. I knew UKIO was a major event in our profession, but being involved in this way gave me a whole new perspective. My role was to attend sessions, capture key moments and engage with attendees. It was a busy, fast-paced few days, but I loved every minute of it. I found myself diving into sessions on everything from AI in imaging to patient-centred care, often scribbling down quotes or reflections to share later.

What made it even more special was the chance to meet and work alongside other student correspondents. There was a great sense of teamwork – we supported one another, swapped tips and encouraged each other to push outside our comfort zones. It felt empowering to be part of something bigger, contributing our voices to such a key event in the professional calendar.

One of the standout aspects of UKIO for me was how welcoming and open everyone was. Whether I was chatting with experienced radiographers, academic staff or fellow students, there was always a sense of mutual respect and shared passion for improving patient care and advancing our field. The sessions were not only informative, they were genuinely inspiring. I left each day feeling more motivated and more connected to the profession I’m training to join.

Reflecting on the experience, I can confidently say it helped me grow in so many ways – from building communication skills and confidence, to broadening my understanding of current issues in imaging. It’s also reminded me how valuable it is to step beyond the classroom or placement setting and engage with the wider professional community.

If you’re a student radiographer and you get the chance to attend the Annual Student Conference, do it. Not only is it a brilliant event full of learning and networking, it might also open unexpected doors, just like it did for me. And if you’re considering applying to be a student correspondent next year, go for it. You’ll gain skills, experiences and connections that will stay with you long after the conference is over.

I’m incredibly grateful to the SoR for this opportunity, and I hope to see more students take part and make their voices heard in the years to come.

Cian Horman

When walking around the ACC building the day before UKIO kicked off, I looked through the windows into the showroom floor and was amazed by what I saw. I expected manufacturers to be there, but seeing complete MRI machines and other imaging equipment in situ gave me a sense of how much more there was inside. 

Across the three days, the diverse range and scope of the talks being presented made choosing sessions a challenge. Education initiatives, post-mortem imaging and upcoming innovations were just a few of the sessions I attended, and they were eye opening as to how diverse radiography is in the broader world. Going into my final year of studies, this was inspirational in showcasing how ideas can shape the field.

I first heard about UKIO during one of the SoR student events – Networking as a Career Catalyst: Building Connections for Success – facilitated by Fodi Kyriakos and John Hoath, but at the time I didn’t see how I could attend. A fortunate series of events led to me being offered the chance to apply to go with the SoR after I was at the SoR Annual Student Conference earlier this year. Looking at the conference page to explore what happens at UKIO did not prepare me for how much there is to explore and absorb.

One element of my role was to talk to the various vendors and find out how they fit into the overall system ergonomics. Everyone was keen to speak and took time to explain elements that were new or unknown to me – I have not been in a position where the need to consider cross-platform reporting implementation has come up… yet.

It was also level ground for conversations. Students could easily talk with company executives, industry leaders and people at the forefront of research. All you needed to do was say hello, ask a question or thank them for the talk they delivered. Sharing an interest and passion for the industry and healthcare was the equaliser.

Then there was all the tech and products. The level of innovation and how ideas have been developed, with demonstrations for some things happening onsite, was a feast for the senses.

Overall, if being part of the conversation on how the radiography profession is evolving is something any individual has a passion for, UKIO is such a great experience. The whole three days are a lot to absorb, but worthwhile. For students, the student day has lots to engage with, and plenty of short CPD-accredited talks aimed at them. Experiences like these add so much, which can be shared through further conversations after such events. What a joy to be a part of that conversation. 

Samsam Mahdi

When I was offered the role of special correspondent for the SoR at UKIO through email, I was surprised as it came unexpectedly. I first submitted my application through the SoR website when I heard about the opening a few months before the congress. I was very excited because although I didn’t know what to expect, I knew it would be a great opportunity to see what radiography is really about and delve deeper into this career path I have chosen for myself.

UKIO is a three-day annual conference in Liverpool that showcases the many different roles in radiography and the insights and real-life stories of others, and also includes people promoting technology. Hundreds come together to take part.

On my way to Liverpool I felt nervous and excited, knowing I would meet and see so many people, and be able to learn radiography from different perspectives. Having such a great opportunity so early in my student life was amazing and I loved every minute of it. I was able to listen to untold stories from patients who had had both bad and good experiences in hospitals from healthcare professionals. This gave me insight into how the world of an allied health professional differs from that of a patient. 

I was also able to learn about the different technology companies that provide and make modalities for radiography in hospitals. Knowing that each day I could take some knowledge back from the congress was incredible.

From the moment I started my experience at UKIO I uncovered, explored and experienced countless interesting, aspiring and uplifting stories. During my time there, the only negative I experienced was not having time to go to all the sessions, meet all the people and staff or see all the stands. It was extremely rewarding to have the freedom to explore and see everything in my own time, even though there was only so much I could see and do as the choices were unlimited.

My role as special correspondent helped me to understand that radiography can be implemented and important in many aspects – not just in the hospital. It enabled me to be more passionate and confident in pursuing this career choice. It made me believe that this career is the right one for me. Radiography is a field that is expanding and growing, and is also creative in many ways.

I would encourage others, especially students, to attend UKIO if given the opportunity because it will give them a glimpse of the future. The SoR introduced me to new possibilities by choosing me as one of their special correspondents. Not only was I able to give back, I was also able to take something from each day.