I've enjoyed the ability to try so many different fields of biology.

What made you want to study your course?

I chose my course due to the flexibility of the programme and the freedom I had in choosing my modules. It allowed me to try all the different areas of biology I had found interesting in my Biology A Level, as well as things that were completely new to me - like developmental biology.

What made you decide to study at the University of Sheffield?

I chose Sheffield University as it was a research-based university which meant I would be taught firsthand by experts in the fields I was learning about. I also felt that the content would be relevant to current research and up to date. 

Away from the learning aspect, the SU and the number of varied societies there were to join were really appealing to me as it provided lots of opportunities to try new things and get to know lots of people.

What have you enjoyed most about your course so far?

I have enjoyed the ability to try so many different fields of Biology, it gave me the ability to really learn what I enjoy and find interesting - like environmental sciences and ecology. I have enjoyed the opportunity to go on field trips to experience on-site and practical learning where I get to implement my skills and knowledge that I have gained in the lecture theatre and use them in a real-world scenario. Getting out in the field gives me a better sense of what it would be like to work in similar sectors, which is very insightful when thinking about after University.

I would say that Biology offers you a rounded degree, with lots of opportunities to find new things and be taught by experts in their field. You get to use great facilities and go on trips that add to the practical side of your learning."

Scarlett Lewis

Biology BSc (now Biological Sciences)

What skills have you developed during your course?

I have developed a wide variety of skills. Some are directly linked to my degree and Biology, like how to use specialist equipment, like microscopes, how to perfect my scientific writing, as well as ecological plant and animal ID. But I have also developed skills in areas that will help with any future employment I have even if it's unrelated to Biology - how to write a CV and job applications, how to perform well in interviews, how to create an effective LinkedIn account that increases my appeal to companies and employers.

Did you receive a scholarship to support your studies?

I was awarded the Experience Sheffield Scholarship, worth £3600 over 3 years because I met certain criteria (like being dyslexic and being low income). I wrote an application that was selected for it being well written.

How did your scholarship help during your studies?

It allowed me to try things in and around Sheffield that before wouldn't have been accessible to me - it stopped me having to choose between essential spending, like on my food shop, and going to do new things like climbing or paying to get the train into the Peaks to go walking. I had lots of anticipatory stress about starting University and trying to create a budget that I could live from, but the scholarship meant I could increase my budget for fun things, and consider spending money on things that added to my time at Sheffield and join my friends and flat when they went out.

What are you planning to do after your degree?

I am planning on taking some dedicated time to build up my experience through volunteering after I graduate before pursuing a career in the environmental sector. I plan on starting a masters after establishing myself in a field I enjoy, and using it as an opportunity to further myself in my career. 

What would you say to a student thinking about studying your course at Sheffield?

I would say that Biology offers you a rounded degree, with lots of opportunities to find new things and be taught by experts in their field. You get to use great facilities and go on trips that add to the practical side of your learning.