Ruth Haughton Science Foundation Year

MSci Geology Student

Hi, I'm Ruth Haughton and I studied Science Foundation Year within Engineering and the Environment at the University of Southampton.

The Foundation Year prepared me really well. It is a real advantage to already know the university system and the campus - it's just one less thing that is new.

1. What made you decide to take the Foundation Year and your chosen degree?

I am a mature student and it felt like a long time since I was in formal education.  The Foundation year bridged the gap between school whilst preparing me for University level education.  I was making a career change from horticulture.  I wanted to study something scientific that was also hands on, practical and had me working outside.  It also opens opportunities for greater earning potential!

2. Why did you choose to come to Southampton?

It is a highly regarded University and Ocean and Earth Science at Southampton is world renowned.  What an amazing place to be able to study!

3. How did you find the Foundation Year?

By accident actually - word of mouth.

4. What did you enjoy most about the Foundation Year?

Learning so many new things.  Meeting new people, especially so many international students.

5. How do you think the Foundation Year has benefited you now that you are taking your undergraduate degree?

It prepared me really well, although I still have some knowledge gaps compared to school leavers.  It is a real advantage to already know the university system and the campus - it's just one less thing that is new.

6. How are you finding your undergraduate degree?

I am really enjoying it.  It is certainly more work than the Foundation Year - I have had to give up my job.  And there is more independent study required to achieve good marks.  It's great to be learning about my chosen subject too.

6. What are you lecturers and tutors like? Have you found them supportive?

I love being taught by academics that are at the top of their field.  They are teaching us the latest knowledge which is really quite exciting.  On the whole they are supportive.  I haven't had much to do with my lecturers or tutor as the class size is so much bigger than the Foundation year.

7. What are the teaching facilities like here?

The library is well resourced, especially with e-journals.  Blackboard is a really useful tool as well.

8. What do you think of the other facilities on campus?

Great.  Everything is so close together and there is everything that you could possibly need within walking distance.

9. What advice would you offer to students considering the foundation year?

It is worth putting the hours in - it really pays off when you start your degree.  Take full advantage of small class sizes and workshop sessions.  Listen to Pam when she tells you how write a lab report!  Get involved in societies; you make lots of new and interesting friends outside the Foundation year.