Undergraduate profile: Hattie
What appealed to you about the course when you applied?
The course incorporates the very latest research, with lots of examples of work being currently conducted in our own School. There are lots of practical applications, including in medical and biotechnology fields, allowing you to explore the areas that interest you the most. The course provides a good balance of material to cover almost all relevant topics in biochemistry.
What are you working on for your final year project?
I am working on getting Botulinum Toxin into neuronal stem cells, which could be of use to companies developing clinical therapeutics. As well as gaining laboratory research experience - which puts into perspective everything you have learnt through the first few years - you also get more independence to carry out the project. It allows you to think more freely and gives you more control over your work, something that will be useful in any career.
How do you think your degree will support your future career plans?
The course gives you the fundamental skills transferable to most career paths. Employability skills are developed through specific research and enterprise modules, as well as the Careers Beyond Research talks. Even though it means leaving Bristol, I wouldn’t have gained a place on graduate-entry Medicine without my time here. The teaching allowed me to get the top grades required, the staff gave me amazing support with my application, and the wide range of extra-curricular activities allowed me to gain the experiences I needed.
What would you say to somebody who is considering Biochemistry at the University of Bristol?
Do it! Bristol gives you the best combination of academic experience and an amazing social network through the Students’ Union. A lot of thought is put into the course by the staff, which is reflected in the content and activities provided. You won’t get a better experience!