Awaba
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
Awaba is from Bradford and is in her second year of the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree, which she started in September 2020 after completing a Foundation Year in 2019.
This is her story…
Sold at first sight
“The University’s Open Day sold Bradford to me.”
“Although Bradford is the closest university to my home, I chose it after visiting on an Open Day. Everyone was so friendly, and the facilities really blew me away. The labs were amazing, as were the lecture theatres and the library.
“It boasts such an impressive campus, and as soon as I’d attended the Open Day, I knew Bradford was the university for me.”
Science from the start
“I’ve been interested in science since I was young.”
“I always knew I’d study science in some form at degree level.
“I decided to choose Biomedical Science because I’m interested in human cells and how they react to different diseases.
“The degree focuses on the genetics of cells and the human body, and it involves a lot of lab work, so it really suits my interests.”
Building foundations
“I progressed onto the degree after completing the Foundation Year.”
“I chose to do the Foundation Year at Bradford, as I knew I wanted to study Biomedical Sciences at degree level, but I hadn’t studied the A level science subjects I needed to get onto the course.
“It was an excellent entry route, and provided me with the skills, knowledge and confidence I needed to go on to do the degree.”
Building on my confidence
“Doing the Foundation Year was the best decision I’ve ever made.”
“I’m so glad I chose to do the Foundation Year, as I enjoyed it so much. It gave me such an advantage when I started my degree, as I already knew the subject and the University.
“It taught me how to properly undertake high-level academic work, so I progressed onto the degree with a strong confidence in my academic ability, including how to research, write and prepare for exams.
“It also allowed me to complete a varied range of modules – some related to Biomedical Science and some not – so I got to learn about what I wanted to go onto study as well as other things too, which I really enjoyed.”
Foundations for life
“I’d recommend the Foundation Year to other students.”
“I’d definitely encourage other students to complete a Foundation Year, particularly those who haven’t studied the A level subjects they need for the degree they want to do, or those students who don’t feel ready to go straight from A level to degree-level study.
“It gave me the opportunity to make lots of new friends, learn about the skills needed to study for a degree, and helped build up my confidence. It benefitted me massively.”
Time in the labs
“The degree gives you the chance to hone your skills in cutting-edge laboratories.”
“As well as attending lectures and seminars, you also get a lot of opportunities to study in the University’s cutting-edge labs, which are packed full of leading equipment. You work in the labs at least once a week in your second year, doing everything from blood cell work and in-depth cell research to ELISA tests, all of which I really enjoy.
“In your final year you get to spend a block of four weeks in the laboratory, and it’s something I’m really looking forward to.”
A growing skillset
“I’ve learnt so much already.”
“Science-wise, I’ve already learnt so much, and built up my Biomedical Sciences-related skillset. I’ve learnt about different types of cells, diseases, including viruses like Covid, and how to use top-level grade laboratory equipment, including microscopes and centrifuges.
“Alongside key course subjects, we also receive regular professional advice in the Developing Professional Skills module, which includes regular talks about how to prepare for employment and details about opportunities available. It’s really helpful, and ensures you feel ready to enter the professional world.”
A network of support
“The staff are so supportive.”
“All the University staff are friendly and helpful, and the lecturers are brilliant. They answer any questions you have straight away and are always on hand to provide extra help and support if you need it. I’ve always been made to feel really comfortable at Bradford, and I think it’s what makes the University so special.”
Endless opportunities
“The opportunities available to me feel endless.”
“I’m still deciding what I want to do when I finish my degree, but I feel like the opportunities are endless. At the moment I’m considering whether to continue my education and do a Master’s when I finish, or whether to go on to find a laboratory-based job at a company that develops vaccines. I’m even considering going into graduate entry-level medicine.
“The degree gives you such a good basis from which to go on and have a successful career in medical sciences.”
Life in Bradford
“The University is a fun and friendly place.”
“Bradford is my hometown, so although I haven’t ever lived in student accommodation, I’ve still been really involved in university life and made lots of fantastic friends.
“In my first year I was a student rep and now, in my second, I’ve become a faculty rep, so I’ve been able to get to know lots of different people."
Everyone is so friendly at Bradford, and there’s always lots of opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities, so it’s a really easy place to meet new people and make friends for life.
Plenty to do in Bradford
“The University campus is right next to the city centre.”
“Bradford is a small and friendly city with lots going on, so there is always plenty to do. The University campus is right next to the city centre, and the University staff are brilliant at keeping students informed about events happening in the city, so you’ll never miss out on things that are going on.”
My advice for future students
“My top tips for other students hoping to follow in my footsteps.”
“Don’t stress too much if you don’t get onto your chosen degree initially, as there’s always an alternative entry option, and if you’re committed, you will eventually get to where you want to be.
“I’d also recommend that students starting university should join as many societies as possible and get involved in as much as they can. It will help you make new friends and settle into university life quickly.”
Interested in a career in Biomedical Sciences?
Find out more about our course, entry requirements, and how to apply.