Can you introduce yourself and a bit about your background?
I am about to start my final/4th year of my MChem Medicinal Chemistry with Pharmacology degree in which I have my sights set on a first. I am from Leicestershire and went through fairly underprivileged/disadvantaged state schools before arriving at university. I have very much enjoyed my time so far at Liverpool as a diligent and open-minded student and it has made me a better, more rounded person.
Why did you choose to study at the University of Liverpool?
The course content was best aligned with my interests compared to similar degrees from other universities I investigated. The university is also very well regarded in the field of chemistry which gave me confidence that obtaining a degree here would be very useful for obtaining whatever job or PhD position I desire afterwards. The idea of a campus within the city was very appealing to me, with the city itself having so much to offer and to explore within walkable distances from the university itself. Additionally, my elder brother studied medicine here and recommended I investigate Liverpool due to his own positive experience too.
What inspired you to choose chemistry as your field of study?
Growing up, I was always more of a maths focused student and imagined I would head in that direction, but I had excellent biology and chemistry teachers at GCSE and A-level that turned my head towards a science career. Chemistry became my new favourite subject, as I was fascinated by the concept of being able to use knowledge of chemical reactions and theory to create molecules that would go on to become lifesaving drugs. Hence, medicinal chemistry appealed to me, as it would take me into my desired career whilst I learned about the subject I was passionate about, whilst also retaining elements of maths and biology that I also enjoyed.
How has your educational journey, including schools and institutions you’ve attended, shaped your approach to chemistry?
My limited practical experience prior to university meant that I’ve always adopted a very cautious and methodical approach to labs, wanting to understand the workings behind everything I am to do before doing it in order to gain confidence. At school, I was always able to treat chemistry problems as fun puzzles in a way that engaged me and motivated me to gain a deeper understanding of chemistry, since I am an avid puzzle solver. Because of this, it trained me to approach chemistry problems in a logical manner and to try different strategies to find a solution. At my sixth form, the organic chemistry section of my A-level was by far my favourite content, and I’ve always enjoyed organic ever since, especially applying this into medicinal chemistry.
Have you experienced any challenges during your time at Liverpool and how did you overcome them?
When I lost a close family member not long before my summer exams in my 2nd year, I had a valuable network of my close friends, the student support office, and some specific staff members, all of whom I leant on for support. They kept me focused on moving one day at a time when I felt my world was at a standstill and gave me the help and reassurances I needed to make it through my exams and perform at my highest level.
How would you describe the culture of inclusion within the chemistry department at UoL?
The chemistry department is visibly a very diverse and inclusive environment where all are welcome, allowing people to contribute and execute the best ideas and processes and to feel their best whilst in the department. There is a focus on EDI in key skills modules of undergraduate degrees which engages students with the department’s inclusion.
How would you describe the support in place in the department of chemistry at UoL?
You are made well aware of the support in place for you from day 1 and that it is always there for you. Support is just as warm and easily accessible in person as it is through emails, but both are very helpful. The support is effective and swift to act for a wide range of issues a student may experience in their degree.
What has the environment at the University of Liverpool been like?
Nurturing and supportive, for both personal growth and academic growth through challenges and opportunities. Being on campus itself is a vibrant and uplifting experience, and the university, much like the wider city, is full of kind and warm people that make you feel at home easily.
What advice would you give someone who wants to study Chemistry? (What would you have liked to know before you began your undergraduate degree?)
That it is okay and more normal than you think to feel lost and unsure about things in your degree, and that when you are having those times, the department has very strong foundations to help with academic and personal issues to get you moving again. Namely, a very friendly student support office and approachable, dedicated lecturers. Chemistry is hard work but that is what makes it so gratifying, and you will learn far more than you expect.
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