What got you interested in microbiology?
At school I was really interested in the science, especially biology - during practicals it seemed to come naturally. I read more about the subject and this confirmed my decision .

Why did you choose your degree course?
I choose the degree as wanted to go to a campus university which had a modular course. This one also appealed as it had a high proportion of practicals.

What are the biggest differences between school and university?
The biggest differences, apart from living away from home and fending for yourself, is that no-one is pushing you to pass. It is down to your own interest and will power to meet deadlines and do the work.
There are also opportunities to try new sports and pastimes and meet new people from different countries and backgrounds.

What sort of work are you doing at Oxoid?
I am testing prepared media plates, checking the pH and recovery rates, which can distinguish between a variety of micro-organisms or will affect the growth of certain species.

What have you enjoyed most about the placement?
I have enjoyed working in a busy and lively work place using media and micro-organisms that are not used at university.

How useful is it to do an industrial placement?
Very useful. It has given me the chance to learn new techniques, use modern equipment and to see if it is a career I want to do after graduation.

What are your plans for the future?
Maybe to continue education with an MSc or become a research student and do a PhD. I might try to get elected to a student union sabbatical post for the first year after graduation.

Do you have any advice for students thinking about applying to university?
Go and visit the university and surrounding town because this will be your home for three years. If you don't like your surroundings it will be much harder to enjoy university life.

Other profiles:
biological scientist
medical microbiologist