I was originally looking to do medicine but as I found out more about the course, I started to stray further away from it. I still wanted to do something healthcare related and found out about Biomedical Sciences. I found that it would open a lot more doors for me to enter a clinical setting, or into a research area. My main research when applying to university was reading about the course on the website and visiting for an Open Day.
I would advise prospective students to look at a variety of universities and courses because there are plenty of different courses out there, all with differing modules. Also ask plenty of questions to students studying that course, it gives you a valuable perspective. Once you start at university, don't be afraid to ask questions and get involved! All degrees are challenging, and Biomedical Sciences is no exception, but once I started getting involved in group tasks and speaking to lecturers it became a lot more manageable and interesting.
My favourite thing about my degree is the wide variety of modules there is to study and how relevant they are. You begin to realise that all systems in the body are connected and they all interact with each other differently. It's even more surreal to think the stuff you're learning about is going on in your body without your awareness! I've also found that studying at Birmingham gives you the opportunity to join in some incredible societies. It's amazing meeting so many like-minded people who become really good friends. It opens a lot of doors regarding work experience as I hope to undergo various placements soon.
My biggest achievement is living and studying independently, it feels completely different to previous education as help is only given if you're willing to try or ask for it. My biggest challenge was my first essay as I simply didn't know where to begin as I hadn't written anything like it before. I overcame this challenge by reading past essays from other students in a marked work bank. I also planned ahead and did a few hours a week on the subject so I wouldn't get too stressed.
The A2B programme was a brilliant opportunity I was lucky enough to experience. It's one of the main reasons I wanted to study at Birmingham because it felt they were going the extra mile to facilitate my education. The assignments helped me get used to university writing, and I met some of the most genuine colleagues through the experience. If you are thinking about applying, go for it – it will change your life. University is a completely new and exciting lifestyle, and the Pathways programmes offer the best way possible to get a head start on your adventure and give you the opportunity to meet the most extraordinary people.