BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science Student Story

Sam Garnham, Student

The University of Suffolk offered me a wonderful opportunity to study in my hometown. After working through the pandemic, I became very passionate about clinical pathology and human health so I decided to apply for biomedical science. It offered me a fantastic insight into the world of medical sciences, and included practical experience that I could use to progress my career not just in the NHS, but also academically. With its connection to the local hospital, and accreditation from the Institute of Biomedical Science, the University offered a multidisciplinary view of what it means to be a biomedical scientist, and the space to study the biology that underpins it. With the main building on the waterfront, the well-stocked library, and other facilities like the James Heir laboratory building, the campus is exceptionally accessible and equipped, with everything available when I need it.

The University of Suffolk feels like a second home, where I feel I am always heard and recognised. From the long-lasting friendships I’ve made in and out of my course, and the rapport I’ve formed with lecturers and other staff, I feel like I belong at the University.

The course is delivered by a variety of specialists in their fields, and as such, the quality of the content is exceptional. The passion the faculty each bring to their lectures enabled me to find my particular area of interest in microbiology, inspired by the amazing ‘medical microbiology’ module.

The support at the University of Suffolk is beyond exceptional. If I needed any help with taught content, or perhaps an assignment, my lecturers were just an email away, and I never felt any hesitation approaching them. For anything the lecturers were unable to help with, the library offers a broad range of student services, from essay writing to more personal matters, they were always there.

My time at the University of Suffolk has enhanced many aspects of my life. I feel much more confident, especially in professional settings. Due to the emphasis the University places on professional development, there have been many opportunities throughout my degree, from specific modules catered toward professional skills (career and academically), as well as the micro placement scheme which I took full advantage of, not only gaining work experience, but improving my technical skills too. The course also gave me the fantastic opportunity to attend and represent the University at the annual Microbiology Society conference. This was an exceptional experience giving me a glimpse into the world of further, bleeding edge science, and an opportunity to network and begin building connections in the field. Alongside the frequent guest speakers brought in during modules, all of these experiences on the course enriched my future prospects.