Why did you choose Bristol for your BSc?

“When I was looking for courses for my BSc, all I knew was that I wanted to study the basis of human disease.  I was also set on studying at a Russel Group University so that I would have world class teaching from researchers who are leaders in their fields.  Bristol itself is a great city - its very cultural, dynamic, there’s always things going on but also there’s lots of green spaces for if you ever needed to clear your mind.  To put it simply, I wanted to be somewhere were my university experience would be great from both the academic and personal perspective.”

How would you sum up your experience?

“I studied BSc Cancer Biology and Immunology and enjoyed my experience so much that I decided to apply for a Masters by Research in CMM which I got to do!  My four years at Bristol were more than I could have asked for.  Although the course was challenging and required many many hours of work, the lecturers were always enthusiastic and inspiring.”

What were the staff like?

“Starting my course as a young student, I found the personal tutor scheme really useful.  I also found lecturers were always kind and willing to help, and the administration team were very supportive.  I feel like I got to know a lot of the staff within the school and always got advice and guidance from them.”

How did your degree influence what you are going on to next?

“Because the course allowed a lot of flexibility in terms of final year modules, I came to realise that I had an affinity for cancer biology and immunology.  I then decided I wanted to do a Masters by research in something cancer-related.  I also decided to do this as a means of testing the waters in terms of if I wanted to stay in the field of research.  I am now doing a PhD in Immunology and Immunotherapy at the University of Birmingham.  I’m on the Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Programme (MIBTP) Programme.  Currently in my first year which is a training year, but then I’ll start my PhD project studying hepatocytes and immune cells."

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

“I think the flexibility and the content of the course make it a very attractive one.  If you want a place where you will get a solid understanding of cellular and molecular pathways and how they contribute to disease, CMM at Bristol would be a great choice. Not only that, but Bristol is a really hearty, wholesome, and overall fantastic student city.  I’d definitely recommend applying.”