Gwyn Thornton
- Course
- Natural Sciences BSc
- Subject area
- Natural Sciences
Loughborough’s Natural Sciences course stood out to me given that it has both its own modules, such as science communication and interdisciplinary sciences, and modules from the respective straight forward courses. I believe that this allows for a deeper understanding of your pathways and allows you to have an understanding comparable to that of a single science honours within certain fields of the given discipline.
After studying the three sciences at A-level and being unsure as to which direction I wished to further my studies, I chose to study Natural Sciences. This is because the degree would allow me to continue to study both human biology and chemistry, to still study more broadly within sciences through modules in maths and science communication and allow me to develop an understanding the extent of how the different science disciplines overlap. I believe that a degree in Natural Sciences allows you to bring something to the table no matter the field of scientific discussion.
I visited in the summer during the Covid-19 pandemic. The experiences from this influenced my decision in three ways. Firstly, I was so impressed by the sporting facilities; I hoped to get involved with football and table tennis teams and make the most of the grounds, pitches, and sports halls. Secondly, I was very impressed by the accommodation; especially by the common room, social areas and facilities surrounding Claudia Parsons. Finally, the study spaces and facilities in West Park. I could envision myself working in STEMLab and West Park Teaching Hub.
What I enjoy most about Natural Sciences is the variety that the degree offers. During my first and second years, in modules such as science communication, we were tasked with completing posters and PowerPoint presentations on topics both within and outside of our discipline area. My pathways are biosciences and chemistry, so topics like genetic engineering proved familiar, while subject areas such as asteroid destruction in defence of earth proved challenging. The flexibility of the research project has allowed me to roughly choose a research are that interests me. This is something most other courses, within Loughborough and in other universities, do not offer.
The university’s campus is fantastic. While boasting the best sporting facilities in Europe, allowing students like me to play in the football and table tennis teams, it also offers excellent study and research spaces. I believe there’s a place for everyone on campus, whether that be on the quiet floors of the library, or the chatty food court in the Edward Herbert Building.
STEMLab is a stunning building with equally impressive facilities for a natural sciences student. With the bio-sciences pathway, you undertake modules which offer practical sessions which let you use some of Loughborough’s sport science equipment. The lecture theatres are well equipped, and the room’s capacity never feels too stretched. It’s also great that these rooms are available as study spaces when unoccupied.
My advice to a natural science student would be to begin your studies, both revision and coursework early - from week one if possible. You will be given deadlines for coursework and dates for exams; don’t let them stack up and creep up on you.
Develop a good work-rest routine and enjoy your free time actively, whether that be in sports, attending societies, or going out. This is the best way to ensure that you feel you are getting the ‘student experience’ while still making the most of your degree.
With regards to the future, I intend on applying for postgraduate degree in Medicine. I believe that my Natural Sciences BSc provides the optimum grounding for a medical degree.