Jamal Hasan
"The broadness of mycourseoffers the opportunity to build many transferable skills, providing the option to venture away from the typical career path."
Why I chose Surrey
As I would be moving away from home, I wanted a campus-based university because it would provide a more community-like environment where I could easily meet and make friends.
The broadness of my course offers the opportunity to build many transferable skills, providing the option to venture away from the typical career path. During my time at Surrey, an entire new building designated to performing practical laboratory work has been built, so it’s safe to say the facilities are up-to-date with plenty of space to accommodate students and help them grow their skills.
My placement
I carried out a Professional Training placement in Barcelona working at an anti-doping lab, where I tested samples provided by athletes for performance enhancement drugs. The workplace's beach front views and travelling around Europe during my spare time were definite highlights of the year. Going on placement provides you with vital work experience, and a feel for where your career could take you. Equally, it helps you grow as a person, boost your confidence and improve social skills. Being abroad also broadens your cultural awareness and there’s always the option to improve or learn a new language.
"I carried out a Professional Training placement in Barcelona working at an anti-doping lab, where I tested samples provided by athletes for performance enhancement drugs."
My life at Surrey
Living at Twyford Court during my first year was an amazing experience. The best thing about living in university accommodation is the ease of having everything close-by – 9am starts aren’t so daunting when you can roll out of bed at 8:50am and still be on time!
During my first two years, I was a member of Surrey’s rugby club, which has played a large role in making my university experience as great as it has been. In my final year, I was unable to commit to the club so I swapped the rugby boots for dance lessons at the Salsa and Bachata Society, and I found myself performing at the annual gala night.
My career and development
I also took up the opportunity to learn and improve my Spanish through the Global Graduate Award. These three things combined have shaped my experience at Surrey for the better, especially when exam and coursework pressure becomes heavy.
Although I have many best moments, including my placement year and involvement in societies and clubs, campus life during first year would take the award – living with 12 people was very fun. During my time at Surrey, I have become more confident, independent, and culturally aware.
