Why did you choose Bristol for your undergraduate degree?   

I chose Bristol primarily due to the course. The Biomedical Sciences BSc offered great flexibility in module choices so I could tailor my studies and the topics covered seemed highly current. It was also the university I enjoyed visiting most during prospective student Open Days as the facilities were impressive and there were ample extracurricular activities. The city also seemed fun and vibrant, and I could see myself really enjoying my time here. 

How would you sum up your experience?

My university experience surpassed my expectations, and I loved my studies as well as spending time with friends and engaging in activities at Bristol. The course let me explore my areas of interest (cancer and immunology) in good detail and the research focused lectures meant we learnt about highly current topics both within the university and elsewhere. Lecturers were also happy to talk through advances in their own research which made for interesting discussions and an opportunity to gain a lot of scientific knowledge. 

What were the staff like?

Overall, the staff were great, and many lecturers were happy to chat through questions after lectures or in seminars. My dissertation supervisor, was a great mentor and was supportive during my project and with applications/career advice. Other staff were also happy to impart their career-based knowledge and I would recommend any future student not to be afraid to contact them. I found this beneficial when making module choices as well as during postgraduate degree/career applications. 

How did your degree influence what you went on to next? 

I became increasingly interested in the field of cancer immunology and therapeutics whilst at Bristol. I also enjoyed my research project and gaining lab-based skills. This led me to seek an internship with a cancer research lab just after graduating. During this internship, I applied to several masters both in research and the business-science sector. Bristol was very helpful throughout my applications and I was offered Masters places at Oxford, Cambridge and in London. I am to study a Masters by Research in Oncology at the University of Oxford as I want to widen our scientific understanding. Having had great academic mentors at Bristol, I also want to continue to work with inspirational teams. I’d recommend future students to not only consider which field they most enjoy but also the day-to-day activities involved in future degree/jobs and people they might work with. My BSc was an amazing opportunity and inspired me to explore careers in the Biomedical field. 

What advice would you offer to students contemplating a place at Bristol?

I would highly recommend Bristol and the Biomedical Sciences course as I loved my studies (despite the impacts of COVID-19) and the city felt like home. As with any application, I'd suggest students consider if their interests align with the modules and check how flexible courses are. I, however, have not always known what university degree or job I wanted so I would say it's important not to be afraid to explore different career options and science fields, and not to be disheartened if you realise that's not for you. I'd also recommend discussing with peers, staff, and friends/family topics you find interesting as you'll learn so much. Also, engaging with extra-curriculars and societies at Bristol is a lot of fun and a great way to make friends. All this made Bristol my own and I hope future students find as much inspiration and happiness at this university.