Christy Chan BSc Biomedical Sciences, 2020

I chose to study at Southampton because of its state of the art facilities and prestigious academic reputation. In particular, what captured me the most was the friendly atmosphere of the campus as this was significant element on my academic motivation.

Why did choose to come and study at Southampton?

I like the mix of a city and campus university atmosphere and how everything is on campus (education wise and social wise). This year we celebrated 100 years with a newly built Centenary building for lectures and study space! University just keeps you on your feet and you never feel unmotivated.

What were you anxious about before coming to Southampton?

I wasn’t really anxious about university life, apart from the occasional homesickness. I remember on move-in day and the first day of term, the staff and students were all very friendly. My flatmates were my first bunch of friends and as the term goes on, you start to build up your network of friends from meeting coursemates and joining societies. Don’t worry as there is a lot of time to make new friends and there is always a student team in halls and campus to get support from.

Once at Southampton, how were your fears overcome?

I would say the events and range of societies really made the transition to university a lot easier. First year is the perfect opportunity to discover yourself and your interests academically and hobbies e.g finding your new sport, meeting people with the same interests.

What is it like studying here?

I’ve found studying at Southampton a very enjoyable experience. There is nice balance between the challenging academic content and the non-academic activities. I am very happy with my course and the inspiring content taught which ties in with the current research that is currently active within the academic department. I feel there is also a very friendly atmosphere around campus and halls where it makes the transition to university less overwhelming and more homely.

How do you rate study facilities at the University?

Facilities at Southampton is very inclusive catering for every individual’s interests. We have a water sports centre, sports complex, sports ground and a 24hr five-storey library and additional study rooms which are very comfortable and modern spreading across 4 campuses. We are proud to host the annual Varsity sports event and other inter-university sports events. There are also several cafes, a cinema, banks, a store on campus and restaurants are located conveniently next to campus.

What have been your Southampton ‘highlights’ (best experiences) so far?

My highlight of studying at Southampton was the studying abroad programme in Hong Kong and the diverse range of societies there is to offer. I think the community spirit in Southampton is what makes it unique and a lovely student experience in terms of trying new sports and encouraging us to join something outside our comfort zone. My experience studying abroad was also a very rewarding and valuable experience where I can apply to future employment and self-reflection, I gained a wider perspective of my course and explored Asia!

How has your time at Southampton helped you to grow as a person?

Southampton has definitely opened up many new opportunities - from sports, personal development and academic ability. The modules were definitely challenging but interesting with a mixture of practicals and presentations, current research on the lecture content were also discussed which stimulated my intellectual curiosity. Working at open days, studying abroad and playing new sports also developed my confidence and valuable skills which will be useful beyond university life.

What are you enjoying most about your course?

I enjoy the range of lab practicals and the flexibility within my course that gives me the chance to tailor my modules to my interest, in particular the opportunity to take medicine modules in the final year. In second year, we also get the opportunity to do a year abroad or placement year.

Do you have the opportunity to study modules outside of your core subject area?

Biomed is a very flexible module where we can take modules within other subjects across Biological Sciences. We also have the opportunity to take modules from the Faculty of Medicine in the third year, which are great to build up on our previous knowledge.

Did you stay in University accommodation?

I stayed in Chamberlain halls during my first year, it is very modern and comfortable to live in. There is great 24-hr hotline for support and a 24/7 reception. They are always here to support freshers settling into university life and there are many events in the common room which made meeting friends a lot easier. The free bus pass was also a bonus which made travelling into town and between campuses a lot more convenient.      

What is the city of Southampton like to live in?

Southampton is a wonderful student city, with West Quay shopping centre close from campus perfect for a nice meal with friends and the lovely countryside for walks and picnics at the Common and the New Forest. Nightlife in the city is always busy with themed events organised by the Student Union, my personal favourite would be Thursday Karaoke at the Union - not one to miss!

Do you have future career/study plans after graduating?

After graduation, I hope to gain experience in healthcare and continue my studies.

What one word sums up how you feel about your experiences so far at Southampton?

Inspirational