For many students summer is the time to sit back, relax and enjoy a few months off before University starts again in September. However I chose to do something slightly different this year. I asked my lecturer whether it would be possible to spend summer working in their research lab to gain some vital experience that will help me secure a job after I finish my BSc (Hons) Pharmacology and Physiology degree at Medway School of Pharmacy. After I finished my exams I took a few weeks off to go back home and at the end of June I returned back to University to start work in the lab.
I have to say that this was one of the best decisions that I have made. I have really enjoyed my time working here and have gained some good experience along the way. I have learned many new skills and experimental protocols as well as building on my skills that I gained in my first year of study. I have been working alongside some PhD students and with my lecturer on various scientific projects.
Without a doubt, I am now in a good position to start my 2nd year of my course. The skills that I have learned will stay with me for the rest of my degree and with my future career. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr Scott Wildman and Dr Claire Peppiatt-Wildman for the opportunity that they have given me. I would also like to thank Gary Mabbutt, a PhD student, who has guided me through my time, both in the laboratory and at university.