Read this interview with Julia Stanovnik to find out about her experience studying Biomedical Science with a Placement Year at Kent.
WHY KENT?
‘I’d heard that Kent had a good reputation in biomedical science and my own research confirmed that. I came for an Open Day, I didn’t know what to expect but I really liked the campus, it’s the perfect size, not too overwhelming, there’s a lot of nature around, and plenty to do. Canterbury is an interesting city too, with so much history.’
WHY BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE?
‘Biomedical science is great for people who love science, but don’t want to dedicate themselves to a specific area. You study biology, chemistry, a little bit of everything so it opens up lots of possibilities for future careers. It was a good choice; I’m glad I chose it.
I’m in my final year now and decided to take a module on neuroscience. I’d always thought neuroscience would be difficult and confusing, so I was a bit scared to study it. Now though, it’s one of my favourite things; I’m interested in neuroscience research, specifically examining the correlation between the brain and the gut microbiome.
I did a placement year and was a bit worried that when I returned to uni I wouldn’t know anyone, but it’s been fine. As long as you go to your lectures, you’ll meet people! I’ve also met people through my final-year research project. We’re all working on the same project, but we’re researching different areas. We’re a team though, helping each other out; it’s awesome.
There are also lab technicians who help and the PhD students working in the labs are also great; actually I wouldn’t be able to get everything done without them!’
LECTURERS
‘All the lecturers have been amazing! I can see how much work they put into their lectures. And, if you have any questions, you can just talk to them afterwards or arrange a meeting with them to talk further. Or if you want to ask them about your grades, how you can improve them, they’re always happy to explain. They are very supportive.’
SOCIETIES
‘I’d advise anyone coming to uni to join a society or societies. Societies are a good way to form friendships and connect with other people. You won’t regret it!
I’m the Social Sec of the BioSoc Society, which is for all bioscience students. I organise different events where we all get together; we went to the Science Museum in London, which gave us a chance to hear about the latest research on stem embryos. We also organised a science ball, which was fun and exciting. So a good combination of academic and more relaxed socials.’
‘I like skiing and snowboarding so I decided to join the Kent Snow Society. In January I went on a ski trip with the society to Val Thorens in France. It was great fun, I’d definitely recommend it!
And then just for fun, sometimes I go to the Debating Society as well.’
PLACEMENT
‘When I applied to uni, I didn’t plan to do a placement but in my second year I decided that a placement would give me a chance to see what it’s like to work as a biomedical scientist. I also thought it’d be a cool experience. Our department sends out emails that list placement opportunities, so I applied and was successful.
My placement, which was paid, was in Brighton at the Royal Sussex County Hospital NHS Trust. I moved to Brighton for the year and shared a flat with two other girls who ended up becoming really good friends.
I worked in a lab in the pathology department. We took samples including skin biopsies, tissue samples, pieces of organs, processed them and put them on slides to be examined for types of cancer and other diseases.
It was really interesting, working with other biomedical scientists and being part of a wider team that included consultants and nurses. I discovered how much work goes into analysing a sample and arriving at a diagnosis, it’s really not that simple! It was a very rewarding experience, I not only learnt a lot, I also felt I was helping others – patients and my team mates.
During my placement, I was also able to build an Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) registration portfolio, which will allow me to be HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) registered after I graduate. It’s a great bonus and I feel very lucky to have been able to do it. I hope to return to the hospital after graduation to see what it would be like to work there longer term and to continue with my professional portfolio.
The benefit of your placement continues when you return to uni. So much of what we learn is connected to pathology, so when lecturers are explaining pathology or haematology, even immunology, all of these things feel more familiar to me. I also feel more confident in the lab, which is definitely helping me as I work on my final-year research project.
I’d definitely recommend doing a placement if you can. It’s a good chance to explore a role and see if you like it, you’ll also gain knowledge and experience and get some new connections.’
SUPPORT
I’ve had support from my department with placements, and if I feel stressed I just email the support team. There’s a lot of help available at the University, you just need to reach out.
AFTER GRADUATION
Where do you see yourself in three or four years’ time?
‘I’ve been thinking about that. I really enjoy working in the lab, but I also like travelling and exploring, so perhaps working for a large pharmaceutical company and making my way up could be interesting.
I’m applying to some postgraduate schemes, where you work within a pharmaceutical company for two years, rotating in different areas of the company. I’d be able to get a feel for each area and may even be able to work in different countries, which would be beautiful. So, if I don’t go back to the lab, that would be an option.’
ADVICE
‘Go to your lectures! You won’t just learn things, that’s where you’ll meet people too.
Work hard, enjoy your time as a student and make time to do things with your friends, that’s what makes your uni experience special.
Quickfire questions :
What’s your favourite spot in Canterbury?
The central part just in front of the cathedral. I’ll just have a coffee in one of the cafes and enjoy looking at the cathedral.
What do you most like about the community at Kent?
It’s very diverse and everyone helps each other out. It’s a good community.
What’s your favourite memory?
I have loads! But I guess meeting people in first year is probably my favourite. We’d do things together around campus; we did a scavenger hunt once which was great fun.
Do you have a favourite place on campus?
I like the hill in front of the library; you can see the whole of Canterbury including the Cathedral, it’s a lovely view.
Did you live in university accommodation? What was the best thing about that?
I lived in Turing. I made lots of friends and despite the fact that my first year was during COVID, we still managed to have a good time!
Can you describe Kent in three words?
Diverse. Exciting. Supportive environment.