Stephanie Cowling BSc Biology, 2014

Hi, I'm Stephanie Cowling and I studied BSc Biology within Centre for Biological Sciences at the University of Southampton.

“I would recommend all students investigate the Year in Industry scheme. It gives you an advantage in the job market and the break from university has given me new insights into my third year studies.”

“I spent my Year in Industry at The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew; learning more about its science and conservation work to increase our understanding of plants and fungi. My time there has given me an appreciation of a world I never knew existed. I would love to get a job in an organisation like Kew after I graduate and I’m sure that the experience will help me with my ambition to work in scientific engagement or environmental education.

“I worked on my own project looking into where in the world the 2,000+ new plants discovered every year are found. New plant species are given a scientific Latin name and will forever be associated with their finder. In addition, during my year, I was encouraged to explore and find out more about the Gardens there were many interesting talks to attend. I also helped steward the music festival they host and volunteered at an open day.

“The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew was founded in 1759 and declared a World Heritage Site in 2003, it’s one of London’s most popular tourist attractions and there is so much to see!

“I would recommend all students investigate the Year in Industry scheme. It gives you an advantage in the job market and the break from university has given me new insights into my third year studies.”