David Beharry MChem Chemistry with Research placement abroad*, 2017
Undergraduate student
David shares his Southampton experience.
A defining feature of this department is the way in which undergraduates are treated as partners in the learning process, with lecturers willing to take feedback and correction from students in a positive fashion.
My education at Southampton has been an all-round experience. The staff are well-humoured and always willing to meet with you in order that you can fully understand concepts that they have introduced. A defining feature of this department is the way in which undergraduates are treated as partners in the learning process, with lecturers willing to take feedback and correction from students in a positive fashion. In addition, there are a wide-range of summer placements which can be undertaken to further your knowledge.
Outside of class, my hobbies are mainly music-based. I sing Tenor for SU Singers, perform piano and like to consider myself as a singer-songwriter!
In December 2016, I completed a 6-month placement at DuPont in Luxembourg. During this time, I investigated an additive which can be added to polyethylene in order to improve the physical stability of the material under a wide-range of conditions. The project was challenging because of the high amounts of independent problem-solving expected, however I feel that the experience was rewarding and enjoyable. I am pleased that the course structure allowed me to travel abroad during the degree as I feel that I developed considerably as a person and a chemist during this period.
Due to the challenging nature of this degree, I feel prepared to continue a career in Chemistry following undergraduate study.
*Formerly MChem Chemistry with six-month placement