Student profile - Amy Bradley

BMedSc Medical Science, 2014

Studied MRes Experimental Neuroscience at Imperial College London. Now a Research Project Manager at The University of Manchester.

Why did you originally apply to study this course at the University of Birmingham?

I originally chose to study Medical Science at the University of Birmingham because I knew I wished to learn more about how the human body works in health and disease but didn’t know exactly which aspect interested me most. The wide range of modules that the Medical Science course offers provided me with the opportunity to learn about how the body functions from the level of individual cells and molecules right through to whole organ systems, so by the final year I knew which areas I wanted to specialise in.

What do you think were the best parts of the programme?

I enjoyed the final year of my degree the most because the small teaching groups and specialist teaching meant that you were able to get really involved in what you were studying. Ultimately, the 10 week research project has to be the best part of the course because it gives you the opportunity to work full-time in a laboratory on your own project with the guidance of a supervisor. This gives you a working knowledge of your subject far beyond what you could learn in a lecture, and a real appreciation of what research is really all about.

I feel that I have greatly benefited from the laboratory provision and small group teaching that is provided on this course. I have also found that the lecturers and teaching staff are always willing to provide help and answer questions, and as a result feel that I have been able to develop my knowledge, understanding and scientific writing in ways which otherwise would not have been possible.

What advice would you give to current students/applicants of the course?

I’d say that the course is a challenge but that you get out what you put in. Also, during the final year you realise the value of everything that you have done in the first two years, and even the subjects you weren’t too keen on end up being useful in ways you wouldn’t expect!

How did you grow as a person during your time at university?

Whilst at the University of Birmingham I’ve enjoyed being part of a number of University and MedSoc music groups and sports clubs through which I’ve met many lovely people and had some fantastic opportunities. I’ve also helped to run a volunteering group that visits elderly people in local day centres and residential homes and this has been a real highlight of my time at university.

Why did you decide to pursue your chosen path post-graduation?

During my final year taught modules I became intrigued by interactions between the immune system and the nervous system and was able to work on a dissertation project in this area. I found my project fascinating and really enjoyed working in the lab and carrying out research. As a consequence I have decided to gain some more knowledge and research experience in my field of interest through a Masters course.

In what way do you think the course prepared you for this?

Throughout the Medical Science course I’ve learnt to search for, read, and critically analyse scientific literature, which are fundamental skills for higher level study. I’ve also had the opportunity to develop specific laboratory skills through taught sessions and through a summer research project. These skills were invaluable during the final year project and will assist me in the Masters course.

Did you attend any sessions during your course designed to prepare you for your future career?

The CV drop in sessions provided by the Careers Service were very helpful when I was making my Masters application.