Imane Z.
"Our professors were incredibly supportive throughout the year, and the university offers personalised career guidance, learning and development platforms, and well-being services, all of which were valuable in supporting me during my studies and job search."
Course
Pharmaceutical Sciences MScWhy did you choose to study your course at Surrey?
I chose to pursue the Pharmaceutical Sciences MSc at the University of Surrey as I was particularly drawn to its broad curriculum, covering various aspects of the pharmaceutical industry, including quality control, quality assurance, formulation, and drug design, which offers flexibility in career options. Additionally, the three-month laboratory-based research project provides the perfect opportunity to independently design experiments and analyse data - essential skills for future research prospects. Finally, the university's high graduate employment rate further fuelled my decision to join the programme.
What are the best things about Surrey and your course?
The things I really enjoyed about Surrey and my course are the interactive lectures and workshops, including group discussions, polls, and presentations. I also appreciated learning by doing in the laboratory setting, both during the practicals and the research project, which allowed me to apply my learnings and develop new analytical skills. The opportunity to work in a highly regulated GMP environment during pilot plant sessions was another highlight of the course. Additionally, our professors were incredibly supportive throughout the year, and the university offers personalised career guidance, learning and development platforms, and well-being services, all of which were valuable in supporting me during my studies and job search.
Imane embracing the hands-on learning approach at Surrey.
Imane embracing the hands-on learning approach at Surrey.
What are the best things about life here as a postgraduate student?
As a postgraduate student, I think the university's location, well-equipped campus, and the various activities available at Surrey made my MSc year very enjoyable. The university boasts a large library, a range of cafes, and many green spaces, all within walking distance of the lecture buildings and laboratories, which was incredibly helpful for getting work done or taking a nice break between sessions. Joining the Surrey Sports Park was also crucial for unwinding and recharging after a long day, while participating in events organised by the international student groups helped me meet students from other courses and backgrounds, enriching my overall experience.
What are your career plans?
After completing this course, I aim to either pursue a PhD if the right opportunity arises or start working in the pharmaceutical industry to gain real-world experience. My long-term goal is to become an R&D Scientist in the pharmaceutical industry. During my research project as part of this MSc, I’ve discovered how much I enjoy conducting literature reviews to continuously learn about novel drug delivery strategies and innovative techniques. I also enjoy designing experiments and bringing my ideas to life in the laboratory, problem-solving, and collaborating with other academics. I believe a career as an R&D Scientist fits these aspects perfectly and would be highly suitable for me.
What advice do you have for students thinking of doing this course?
I would advise students considering this course to be ready to dedicate the time and effort required to complete the programme successfully. At times, managing coursework, exams, and laboratory reports can be overwhelming, so it’s important to complete tasks in a timely manner and avoid letting them pile up. Additionally, I would recommend making the most of the resources the University of Surrey offers, prioritising your mental health, and seizing every opportunity to develop new skills and expand your network.
