Progress to Postgrad: Olivia
Posted on: 3 November 2025 by Richard Finch in Class of 2024
Olivia is a Class of 2024 BSc Chemistry graduate who went on to study for a MSc Drug Discovery and Development degree at the University of Leeds.
How did you hear about your course?
I knew I wanted to focus more on the medicinal aspect of Chemistry rather than the traditional organic/inorganic/physical modules which I wouldn't have been able to choose by completing the straight MChem course. At the time, the University of Liverpool didn't have a drug discovery course and so I chose to apply to University of Leeds – it was closer to home and a more affordable option than other universities. I applied by submitting my transcript and a personal statement - if anyone is interested, I know UoL do now have a Drug Discovery with Artificial Intelligence course!
How did you get to where you are now?
The decision process was quite simple once I had received my classification. I do feel that I was able to have a much stronger application due to the work that I completed at UoL. We do get a lot of choices in optional modules which had allowed me to tailor towards Medicinal Chemistry and now I have been exposed to a wider scope in the Chemistry-Biology interface. Having completed internships in the Chemistry department and CTL and working as a student advocate at Liverpool meant I was able to give a well-rounded application that I do believe has helped me in my current course - particularly with time management and my communication skills.
Your favourite experience?
My favourite experience during my MSc was during my master's project, which focused on "Investigating Peptide Redox Modifications Using Mass Spectrometry and Photoactive Chemical Probes in Cataract Formation" – I was able to learn so many new biological laboratory skills as well as Chemistry. I got the opportunity to visit the European Molecular Biology Laboratory in Hamburg, Germany, to take part in a collaborative X-ray crystallography experiment which put into perspective all the new skills I have learnt. A fun fact this is the same place where they screened drug candidates using X-ray crystallography during COVID-19!
The most challenging part of your journey?
One of the most challenging but ultimately rewarding parts of my graduate journey was learning to manage my time while balancing full-time study with 20 hours of part-time work each week. It taught me how to stay organised, set boundaries, and prioritise my well-being, helping me build resilience and a strong work ethic that I know will benefit me long after graduation.
What's your #1 piece of advice for future grads?
It is super hard not to be overwhelmed with job searching alongside your studies and, if you do any extra curriculars and part time employment, it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed. Try breaking tasks into small, scheduled chunks, focus on progress over perfection, and don’t hesitate to lean on support systems when juggling job hunting with studies and other commitments. Focus on building genuine connections and not just resumes – most opportunities come through people, not job boards.
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Graduate+
Graduate+ is just for University of Liverpool finalists and graduates. It's a new way to stay connected, get career support, build the right skills and experiences, and hear about exclusive career opportunities in Liverpool, the UK, and beyond. Let us help you get the job that you deserve!
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Keywords: Graduate, Class of 2024, progress to postgraduate, Case Studies.