BSc Biomedical ScienceEvie Nichol
Evie has just completed her third year at the University of Strathclyde, studying for a BSc in Biomedical Science. She is passionate about making science more sustainable and inclusive.
Although she spends a lot of time in the library, in her spare time she enjoys running, reading, and making the most of life in Glasgow.
Learn more about Evie's course and her experience at Strathclyde.
How did you make the decision to study at Strathclyde?
I’ve grown up hearing about Glasgow from my Glaswegian Grandpa – my grandparents actually met in Rottenrow, which is now the centre of Strathclyde’s campus! I also wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone and move as far from home as possible without going abroad.
I visited the campus before I chose which university I wanted to go to, and immediately loved it. I also liked that the degree was a year longer than it would be had I studied in England, to give me more experience in the lab as well as being able to learn more about the cutting-edge research at Strathclyde.
What do you like about your course and Strathclyde?
I enjoy how the content of my course is so varied but is still all interlinked, giving me a well-rounded understanding of biomedical science. My course offers great career advice and development opportunities, and I know that I have a lot of support available should I need it. I also love the links with my course and the NHS – receiving lectures from NHS staff was a major highlight of this year.
Everybody at Strathclyde has always been so open and welcoming, and there are so many different societies to choose from that it was easy to find something for me with people whom I have things in common.
Why did you choose to study Biomedical Science?
When I realised I no longer wanted to apply to study medicine, I stumbled across the career of ‘Biomedical Scientist’ on the NHS website. Being a less patient-facing role while still being able to provide a medical service to those patients, it sounded perfect to me. The Biomedical Science course allows me to explore my interests in medical biology while on a direct path to a career I think I’ll love, as the course at Strathclyde is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
Everybody at Strathclyde has always been so open and welcoming, and there are so many different societies to choose from that it was easy to find something for me with people whom I have things in common.
What do you like most about Biomedical Science?
I love learning about how intricate and complex our bodies are on a cellular level, and how much energy and work are required by our bodies just for basic everyday function.
It’s so interesting to then learn about how infections wreak havoc on us and how our cells fight against disease. I love that we’re then able to apply the knowledge we’ve gained practically in the lab, which are always well-led and clearly laid out.
The emphasis on not just knowing how to do something but also why it’s being done and why a certain result is observed is strong which really helps with understanding the course as a whole.
What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?
After I graduate, I’m hoping to secure a role as a trainee Biomedical Scientist in order to build a portfolio and eventually become HCPC registered as a Biomedical Scientist. This has been my goal since starting university, but the lectures we received this year from NHS staff have made me certain that this is the field I want to go into.
My time at Strathclyde has allowed me to develop personally, academically and also in my laboratory skills, and a lot of work is put into preparing us for job applications and creating a useful CV which will help me when applying for this extremely competitive job role. I have also been given the incredible opportunity of a project within the University research labs this summer, which will provide me with invaluable experience and allow me to explore my interests further.
What would you say to anyone considering coming to study at Strathclyde?
Studying at Strathclyde has been a great experience, and I would definitely recommend it! Coming to Strathclyde has been a life-changing, eye-opening opportunity, and although it was terrifying at first, I now couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. There are so many opportunities available to meet new people and reach your career goals. I’ve made lifelong friends here and love my course and the support it offers.
Is there anything else you’d like to say?
Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way! Join societies, speak to your lecturers.
University is all about making connections and building your own community. Make sure you work hard but play hard too!
Study my course
Interested in BSc Biomedical Science?