Sophie, a Biomedical Science Graduate discusses her journey at Aston University
Sophie is a BSc Biomedical Science graduate at Aston University. She gives insight into how her degree helped her find employment right out of university, her experience living in the big city, and her placement as a trainee biomedical scientist (BMS) at Hereford County Hospital
Why Aston University and Biomedical Science?
Originally I did not want to attend a university in a big city as I come from a very rural area but after visiting Aston's campus it made the idea of living in Birmingham less daunting. I remember attending the open day and listening to how enthusiastic the lecturer's were about the subject matter and the prospect of having a placement year.
The good reputation the university had for the employability of students only helped encourage me to choose Aston.
What did you enjoy most about the course?
Many of the lecturer's on my course were very enthusiastic about their subject and they often showed a genuine interest in their students so they could get the best out of us.
Also, I found the resources provided by Aston were highly beneficial especially recordings of lectures that were accessible at any time so you could go back if you didn't understand something.
Placement
I spent my placement as a trainee biomedical scientist (BMS) at Hereford County Hospital. Over this time, I completed my IBMS registration portfolio which is an essential qualification to become a qualified BMS.
I worked primarily in haematology and blood transfusion where I was able to apply the knowledge I had gained through my studies as well as learn a great deal. My placement gave me more context of what I was working towards and whether this is what I wanted for a career.
I really developed my knowledge and practical skills of this period of time as well as important everyday skills such as time management, communication and working part of a team. I attribute the improvement of my performance in my exams in my third year a lot to what I learnt from placement.
What would you say to any student thinking of studying your course at Aston University?
I would highly recommend Aston University, especially for aspiring biomedical scientists (BMS). The course was accredited by the IBMS and I completed my registration portfolio on my placement, so as soon as I left university I entered the NHS as a qualified BMS.
This makes Aston graduates very attractive to employers, especially in the current climate where there is a real need for qualified, competent BMS.
If you could give one piece of career advice to your fellow Aston University alumni, what would it be?
I would say, take the placement option. If you want to go into the NHS, do your IBMS registration portfolio over this time. Even if you decide not to proceed down this path, it opens up your options for the future. However, if you decide you want to be a BMS then doing the portfolio after graduation is going to take more time.