The MSc was perfect for me

I studied Science Communication MSc at Sheffield following my BSc Genetics degree at the University of York. There were two main reasons that I was interested in science communication.

The first was being involved in outreach events in the biology department.

The second was a personal experience, whereby a family member had been diagnosed with breast cancer. I sat in the hospital appointment understanding what the complex genetic testing meant for my relative, based upon my studies.

It was this that really highlighted how scientific research translates into real life experiences.

It was undoubtedly this experience and the skills gained through my degree that supported my application for Campaigns and Advocacy Officer at national blood cancer charity, Leukaemia Care – the position that I am in now, after initially completing my dissertation as a work-based placement at the charity. 

Bethany Torr

MSc Science Communication

While I knew I was keen to be involved in science communication, I didn’t really know in what way, and therefore the MSc Science Communication course at Sheffield was perfect for me. The course explores how you can use science communication in a variety of different formats and begin to develop your skills.

We did online and print journalism, science demonstrations in Western Park Museum, a university open night for families, and were encouraged to think outside the box on how to communicate a scientific topic in our Topical Science modules.

I often felt out of my comfort zone during the masters, but this was actually a great way to develop confidence in my own ability. Also, with the course size being so small, there was always a friendly face around to help.

I thoroughly enjoyed the course and all the extra opportunities the university had to offer.

It was at a university careers fair that I met representatives from Cancer Research UK who encouraged me to become a volunteer campaigns ambassador in the local area.

It was undoubtedly this experience and the skills gained through my degree that supported my application for Campaigns and Advocacy Officer at national blood cancer charity, Leukaemia Care – the position that I am in now, after initially completing my dissertation as a work-based placement at the charity.