Can you introduce yourself and a bit about your background?
My name is Jake, I am a fourth-year medicinal chemistry student from York.
Why did you choose to study at the University of Liverpool?
I chose the University of Liverpool because the course offered was very specific to what I wanted to do. I really liked the campus and the city of Liverpool itself felt like a really nice vibe when I visited for the first time.
What inspired you to choose chemistry as your field of study?
I always enjoyed chemistry throughout GCSEs and A levels, and I thought this is something I wanted to pursue further after leaving sixth form.
How has your educational journey, including schools and institutions you’ve attended, shaped your approach to chemistry?
I attended Tadcaster Grammar School for GCSEs and also stayed on to study my A-levels there. My chemistry teachers throughout my time there were always so friendly and supportive, always offering help when it was needed. They always pushed me and taught chemistry in a way that made it enjoyable. Having that supportive and engaging environment in lessons helped me decide that chemistry was something I wanted to go into after sixth form.
Have you experienced any challenges during your time at Liverpool and how did you overcome them?
I’d say the biggest challenge for me was adjusting to the workload. Having multiple assignments to complete alongside ensuring I understand the content being taught was a tricky balance to achieve. But I overcame this by asking for help from lecturers and staff in chemistry when it was needed and powering through the work given.
How would you describe the culture of inclusion within the chemistry department at UoL?
The department always strives to be as inclusive as they can by always being open to hearing students’ opinions on improving the course and making it more inclusive through module evaluations and the SSLC. Within the key skills module, there is a focus on EDI awareness and teaching students the importance of EDI. This helps promote inclusion within the department and showcases their commitment to being an inclusive place.
How would you describe the support in place in the department of chemistry at UoL?
The support in the chemistry department is very good. The support office is there with a friendly approachable team who can help with any query you have. Lecturers are also helpful if you are struggling or need help understanding content in the lectures. So, there is always someone in the department who can help you or offer advice on any problem you may have.
What has the environment at the University of Liverpool been like?
UoL is a very inclusive and friendly environment. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved with university life—from volunteering to societies and outreach events—these are available to anyone in the university, which helps create an inclusive environment.
What advice would you give someone who wants to study Chemistry? (What would you have liked to know before you began your undergraduate degree?)
My advice would be to figure out what learning and revision style works for you. This will be very helpful when it comes to revising and learning content to effectively manage your time as the workload can be a lot at times. Also, I would say enjoy your time at university and get involved in different activities and opportunities that are offered, as it makes the university experience so much better by meeting new people and being involved in something you enjoy outside of academics.
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