What are you studying and where?
I am studying Biomedical Sciences at Newcastle University
What led you to choosing this subject(s) and course?
Whilst taking my GCSEs I became interested in the sciences, specifically chemistry and biology. I knew I wanted to study a degree related to medicine, so continued them at A level to have a wider range of choices. During Sixth Form, it was thanks to Miss Maclean that I looked into scientific degrees which were related to my interests, and this led me to picking biomedical sciences.
What do you hope to do with your STEM qualifications?
I am not entirely sure yet; I chose biomedical sciences because it leaves my options open for a few more years. I hope to continue working in a scientific setting, maybe for a pharmaceutical company.
Why do you think science is important in all our lives?
Science influences everyone’s everyday lives. Whether it is the beauty products that you use, the medicines you take, or the technology you use, science has allowed us to develop as a society. From a medical point of view, it has been incredible over the last few years with the swift roll out of the COVID-19 vaccines, and the quick progression in technology surrounding sequencing, which allowed us to identify different strains of the virus.
What science and maths influences came from your time at Emanuel?
The pandemic influenced my decision to study science, as many of the key workers who played vital roles in medicine and research were from scientific disciplines. Within the school, there were many teachers that pushed me to achieve my goals, and helped to further my understanding of their subjects, such as Mr Strathearn-Burrows, Ms Brown and Mr Barker. Having teachers such as these enhanced my time at Emanuel greatly, and I believe that I got to where I am today because of them.
What do you love about science/the courses you have taken?
I love learning about lots of different aspects of the science behind medicine, especially pharmacology, where you look at the effects of drugs and how they’re broken down by the body. I also thoroughly enjoy the time I spend in the lab, as it is good to have practical elements to studying. Having seen some of the research that my professors have carried out, I think it is amazing to see the level of research that goes into everyday medicine, such as paracetamol.
What is something that you absolutely loved being a part of at Emanuel?
Emanuel has a wonderful sense of community, and that is definitely one of the things I miss the most. Especially in my last year, I found advice from alumni already at university was particularly helpful in helping me to choose my course. I was also glad to be a part of the rowing team, especially as I was in the first girls’ boat to qualify for Henley Royal Regatta. It took a lot of work but was very gratifying.
What positives do you think the new science and dining building will add to the school?
The new dining hall will allow more members of the school to eat together, which is important for the sense of community. The new science labs will provide pupils with modern facilities which will aid their learning and interest in the sciences. It will definitely make the technicians’ lives a lot easier!
Why is it important to have modern facilities for pupils?
Modern facilities will enhance their learning, allowing them to perform new practical experiments, and to learn about subjects in a hands-on manner, which is important for understanding.
