Agu Jennifer Chioma
Current student, International student
- Course
- Biotechnology MSc
- Subject area
- Chemical Engineering
As a queer African woman, I would say my greatest achievement so far has been to properly adapt to the schooling system here which has provided me with an avenue to be comfortable enough to be the most functional version of myself and as such a great addition wherever I find myself.
Why I chose to study Biotechnology MSc at Loughborough
I chose my course of study at Loughborough University because the programme details and the modules listed were best suited for my career plans in comparison to other schools I considered applying to. I would encourage anyone who is thinking about studying this course to keep an open mind and be willing to put the most effort possible into coursework and other module activities.
Being an international student
The experience has been exciting for me as I am experiencing more cultures, I live with people from various parts of the world which is great as not only am I provided with a platform for learning but also a diverse community to grow with. Also, I recently attended an International Students' Day event where I was able to try cuisine from different ethnicities and watch beautiful cultural performances.
I've also been able to experience new teaching methods compared to my undergraduate alma mater. I've found here there is easier access to teaching materials for students which has helped me learn at my own pace and read ahead of in-person classes, the reading lists provided have also broadened my knowledge of the modules and course.
As a queer African woman, I would say my greatest achievement so far has been to properly adapt to the schooling system here which has provided me with an avenue to be comfortable enough to be the most functional version of myself and as such a great addition wherever I find myself.
The teaching and support
The teaching methods have improved my study patterns and plans as students are provided with various resources such as on-demand lectures, reading lists and handouts which have helped streamline studying. The ease of access to learning materials and advice provided by the student services helped me adapt to the schooling system as I could always reach out to a lecturer or my personal academic tutor if I needed guidance.
I have had mental health support from the #Me program for students. This is a peer-led external student support initiative which promotes peer support, improving student well-being, resilience and developing valuable student support networks. It is a 12-week course paced and structured in a way that helped me gain the most in terms of understanding how to have more confidence in myself and feel more in control of my life.
I also received added support from student services as there is a range of mental health and well-being topics from sexual health to helpful advice for international students living abroad for the first time.
My research project
I have been involved in research on the links between exercise as a treatment and oncogenesis. I chose this topic for my research project as exercise as medicine for metabolic diseases is an interest of mine and as cancer research is an ever-growing field of study it would provide the best learning environment for me to carry out my Master's project.
This research would be valuable as designing a model showing the exact mechanistic effects of physical activity in relation to the prevention and management of site-specific cancers will provide an in-depth understanding of the metabolic processes that link exercise and oncogenesis and this in turn would bring about an added level of personalisation to cancer treatment.
My future plans
I plan to pursue a career in Process Development in the Pharmaceutical Industry and my degree will provide me with transferable skills, knowledge, and a platform to transition into the business aspects of manufacturing.