Rebekah White BSc Biology, 2018
Undergraduate student
The field trip to Spain for Biology, Zoology and Ecology students was brilliant.
Why did you choose to come and study at Southampton?
The first things that grabbed my attention about UoS was the stunning campus, the fantastic reputation and the location of the city. From visiting during open days, I knew I wanted to apply based on the vast choice of the modules, the enthusiasm of the lecturers and the abundance opportunities and experiences offered to me - particularly field courses, lab experiences and placements.
What is it like studying here?
In one word – AMAZING. My first year in halls was an experience I'll never forget, as there's nothing quite like it. I was placed in Connaught, Wessex Lane, where I made some great memories with friends I'll have for life.
I've also met some incredibly inspiring people on my course with an equal passion for my subject.
I've become a member of Biological Sciences Committee, which has been loads of fun! We plan events like seasonal balls, guest speakers and socials to help bring students together and make University Life as great as possible for everyone.
How do you rate study facilities at the University?
The library is the perfect for study – it has everything you need, such as quiet zones, an abundance of tables and a café for breaks. If you feel like a change of location, there are many spaces around campus to take your work!
The teaching labs have a team of friendly technicians that make sure everything is running smoothly, and everyone has what they need. The facilities are modern and efficient too
What have been your Southampton ‘highlights’ (best experiences) so far?
The field trip to Spain for Biology, Zoology and Ecology students was brilliant. We were able to learn about everything around us in context, making it so interesting and easier to understand, as well as getting to know our coursemates better.
The Christmas Ball this year was fun too! Everyone came out dressed beautifully, and we had great food and dancing.
Also, I have to mention Karaoke nights at the student bar! I regularly go with my 'halls family' from last year, and it's a great place to safely de-stress and let my hair down before carrying on with studies the next day.
How has your time at Southampton helped you to grow as a person?
The amount of Biology I have learned in such a short amount of time is unbelievable! Enjoying what you are doing helps so much. My confidence has also improved a great amount, and I'm much better at talking to people and doing presentations.
I love that I can now read scientific papers in journals and understand the novel ideas as they are discovered. This also helps with dispelling myths and misunderstandings in the media so I'm more likely to know the truth
What are you enjoying most about your course?
Mostly, the new ideas I've been presented with and friends I've made! The lectures themselves are always engaging and thought-provoking, and presented by experts in the field. I've also been lucky enough to get to know some of the lecturers through field courses, and first hand seen their passion and commitment to their research and their students.
Do you have the opportunity to study modules outside of your core subject area?
Yes, I've been able to take two modules in Archaeology based around Human Origins, Dispersal and Evolution. This is a subject I'm very interested in, and I was thrilled when I found out I was allowed to take them as part of my degree.
What is the city of Southampton like to live in?
There's an undeniably fantastic nightlife for students here! Any night of the week is a winner, with different clubs offering student deals on separate nights. I've had some unforgettable times, and some great stories! Security is very efficient, making my friends and I feel safe. Taxis and Ubers are also very trustworthy. If you're more of a low-key night person, there are many characterful pubs around too.
The city centre is great for shopping and days out. The bus services are efficient and reasonably-priced (with USB ports on them all!), so it's always easy to get from place to place! It's also multicultural and welcoming, with the river Itchen running through, proving walks, parks and open areas. There lots of gigs and events all year around, meaning you'll never be bored.