For many, juggling a full-time job, raising a family, and pursuing further education may seem like an insurmountable challenge. But for Cleonie Rebelo, (Deputy Pathology Quality Manager ESTH), these were hurdles she was determined to overcome. After years of perseverance, she has officially completed her Master’s degree in Healthcare Quality Management with Distinction — a remarkable achievement that stands as a testament to her dedication and resilience.
Reflecting on her journey, Cleonie shared how it all began.
“I am by profession a microbiologist,”
she explained.
“My first degree and master’s I had 25 years back, in microbiology. I was working at St George’s Microbiology, and Jamie (Director of Operations) actually motivated me to do some sort of studies. I wanted to do it as well, and at that time, SWLP encouraged me to join the course at Greenwich University.”
What started as a few standalone modules quickly evolved into a fully-fledged postgraduate pursuit.
“It was initially not like a Master’s,”
she recalled.
“But as I was progressing, it was going on really well, and I started getting really interested in quality. So I continued doing the postgraduate course at the University of Greenwich and recently completed my project. Thanks’ to my work base supervisor Helen Johnstone (Consultant Biochemist at ESTH) for her guidance, support and wisdom during the research”.
Completing a Master’s degree while managing a career and family is no small feat. Cleonie, a mother of three, spoke candidly about the difficulties she faced.
“The biggest challenge was to find time,”
she admitted.
“When you go home, you have other responsibilities—cooking dinners, taking care of the family—and you have to make that time to sit and say, ‘Okay, I’m going to complete the project.’”
Time management became crucial.
“The project was a little bit challenging because you have to get it done, which I did,”
she continued.
“But sitting down and writing it up was not easy. I had to make a conscious effort to do a little bit every day rather than leaving it as one big chunk. That approach really helped me.”
Despite the obstacles, Cleonie remained steadfast in her commitment to seeing the degree through to the end.
“I think it’s important that when you start something, you complete it and achieve something at the end,”
she said.
“That’s what pushed me to finish it.” With great support, understanding, encouragement from my husband and three children in achieving this academic qualification.
Now that she has successfully graduated, Cleonie feels an overwhelming sense of pride.
“You feel proud. You feel happy. It’s a good example for my children, who are now on their way to graduating themselves,”
she beamed.
“It’s a good motivation for them. If they see that their mother could do it while juggling work, family, and studies, then they can do it too.”
Her achievement has not gone unnoticed.
“They must be so proud of you,”
she was told, to which she humbly responded,
“Yes, they are.”
Cleonie Rebelo’s story is one of perseverance, determination, and triumph. She is a shining example of what can be accomplished through hard work and dedication. Her journey serves as an inspiration to colleagues, friends, and, most importantly, her family. Congratulations, Cleonie, on this incredible milestone!