Megan Simpkins BSc Biomedical Science, 2016

Graduate

As a Russell group university it is great to have lecturers at the forefront of current research. The staff who I have been in contact with have an approachable nature.

I have always had a passion for science, mainly in the field of biology. I hoped that I would end up in a field within the area of biomedical science preferably with a human focus, allowing me to apply what I have learnt throughout my early education. I enjoyed the broadness of the degree and the opportunity to focus on particular areas of interest as you go through the course, in my case this has been reproductive/developmental biology.

Southampton has everything to offer; it is so easily to get around and into the city centre which offers everything you need in regards to shops, cinema and restaurants as well as the nearby docks providing a good place to visit in the spring/summer. I have really enjoyed the hands-on approach to learning within the course and the opportunities that arise having current research facilities on campus and at the nearby hospital. Having all of the main buildings grouped together has made it easy to access the facilities the university has to offer. More specifically, The Life Sciences Building has allowed me to gain practical skills in teaching labs during each year of my degree as well as providing the opportunity to have access to current research labs for an in-depth research project in my final year.

From an academic point of view, the in-depth research project as well as the summer placement in Professor Keith Jones’ lab was a highlight and really furthered my passion in the area of reproductive science. From a social point of view , being unbeaten in the league in my final year as well as bonding with housemates and team members have all contributed to lasting memories and lasting friendships from my university experience.

As a Russell group university it is great to have lecturers at the forefront of current research. The staff who I have been in contact with have an approachable nature and many have gone above and beyond, providing references as well as help to offer summer placements in the laboratory. My involvement in the general support from the university has been excellent. There were various workshops in order to help such as assistance with setting up a CV and job applications.

Outside of learning, I was a member of the Netball Club which I joined at the start of my first year. It has allowed to be become an active member in the club by being part of the committee in second year as well a large proportion of my friends at university coming from within the club. I enjoy being part of such a lovely team environment and the opportunities to visit and play at other universities is something that has enhanced my university experience. I am also a member of the Biological Sciences Society which set up talks from various speakers working in different fields in order to apply to all interests. It has also allowed me to be part of the ‘parenting scheme’ which helps first years to settle into the course.

Now that I’ve graduated, I am going to use my degree to follow my interest in the field of reproductive biology and I am fortunate to be starting a job within this discipline in Oxford.