Anna Tassie MChem Chemistry, 2016

Graduate

I was very impressed by the University, I liked the look of the campus and everyone was very friendly.

Why did you choose the University of Southampton?

Although I missed Open Day, I got in touch with Dr David Read who showed me round. I saw the laboratories and thought the facilities were very high tech, especially the NMR machines.

What was the highlight of your degree?

My fourth year project was definitely one of the best parts of the degree. I was testing the ability of certain compounds to transport chloride across cell membranes. It was the first time I got the chance to research independently and think for myself and the group was really friendly.

I started off on this kind of work with Professor Phil Gale, the Head of Chemistry, during a previous summer placement at the University, using different compounds. I found I enjoyed this area of chemistry and decided to stay with it for an inorganic project when it was time to make my choice.

What advice would you give to new students?

Well done, you’ve picked a really good Uni and a really good subject. When the course gets hard, stick with it and always ask for help if you need it. Your lecturers want you to succeed and their support will make the difference so don’t be embarrassed to ask.