How did you decide to study at Strathclyde? 

Strathclyde has always been local for me, but without that factor, it has also always been the frontrunner for my choice of university.

Strathclyde is one of the top institutions for Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, with some of the sector's best lecturers and a very strong research reputation, so for me it was a no-brainer. Even when I attended the open days, I could tell Strathclyde has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, which has stayed true throughout my degree. 

What do you like about your course and Strathclyde? 

Strathclyde has such a community feel, which I love; you feel like you matter, despite it being such a large university. From the very start of my course, it balanced theoretical knowledge and practical lab experience. We weren’t just learning from textbooks, we were applying concepts in the lab, which brought the science to life. The staff were always approachable, and I felt genuinely supported throughout my studies. 

In my final year project, I was able to work with cancer brain cells, which I found fascinating. It really was a full circle moment for me after reading and learning about how cancer spreads in the early years of my degree to trying to kill brain cancer cells in my final year. 

Why did you choose to study biomedical sciences?

From my early teenage years, I always loved science, especially biology, and I knew I wanted to go into something science-related. I then came across biomolecular sciences, and after reading about the different disciplines,  something clicked and I knew it was the right fit for me.

Strathclyde also allowed me to have a taste of all the different biomolecular science subjects throughout my first two years and allowed me flexibility to choose my degree, as these were such different topics compared to what was taught in high school. I originally enrolled on the BSc Immunology & Pharmacology programme before transferring to the BSc Biomedical Sciences after discovering my interest in blood sciences and cancer. 

What do you like most about biomedical sciences?

I love the interdisciplinary element of it, one day you’re learning about molecular pathways, and the next you’re analysing how different drug formulations affect disease progression. Being able to relate aspects of how our immune system works in immunology to the way viruses package themselves to invade others in microbiology.

It gave me a well-rounded view of biomedical science and equipped me with diverse skills. It has equipped me with the knowledge and skillset required in this sector and prepared me for life after graduation. 

What are your ambitions for the future, and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?

My goal is to pursue a career in cancer nanomedicine. I have a PhD position at the Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Continuous Manufacturing & Crystallisation (CMAC), within the University of Strathclyde, lined up following graduation. At CMAC, I will be contributing to the development of innovative drug delivery systems. My degree laid the scientific foundation for this, and the opportunities I had, such as research placements and my dissertation, allowed me to explore my interests in depth and gain real lab experience. I loved my time at Strathclyde and all the opportunities and connections I’ve gained from my four years is something I will take with me throughout my career, and I could not be more grateful. 

What would you say to anyone considering coming to study at Strathclyde?

Go for it! Strathclyde is more than just a place to study, it’s a community. The teaching is excellent, the research opportunities are incredible, and there’s a real focus on helping students develop both academically and personally.

I would say take every opportunity presented to you, you never know what will be useful in your career and where it may lead.

Strathclyde has given me so much throughout my undergraduate degree, and I can wholeheartedly say that I have taken everything that it has to offer. Strathclyde has helped shape not just my academic path, but my confidence and career direction. I’m excited to see what’s next and proud to have started (and hopefully continue) my journey here!