Student stories

I completed my Professional Training placement at Performance Communications in Kingston and it was one of the best experiences I've had during my time at university ... From working on real campaigns to attending client meetings and managing deadlines, it was such a valuable experience. I gained confidence in my skills and really grew as a person.

The best thing about my course is the opportunity to apply and transfer the theoretical background of what we learn in our lectures to the laboratory every week. The skills we learn in the laboratory alone are incredibly useful as we learn not only skills for chemistry, but also professional development skills like teamwork, data analysis and more.

I never planned to do a placement year or study abroad, but in my third year I did both. It was an awesome experience! I studied at Northern Arizona University. This was one of the best experiences in my life. Doing a placement in the UK also significantly helped me develop professionally: developing new skills, networking and having significant responsibilities. 

Being a postgraduate student at the University of Surrey provided me with the necessary skill set required in the real-world. The well-structured programme, with a mix of coursework and research opportunities, helped me develop my academic writing skills, critical thinking abilities and problem-solving skills.

A key aspect of the course is the hands-on practical work. From laboratory sessions to research-focused modules, the programme ensures that theoretical knowledge is applied to real-world problems. This practical approach has deepened my understanding of the subject and helped me build confidence in my skills.

I am passionate about my area of research because it addresses some of the most pressing global challenges, such as sustainable energy production and environmental protection by reducing carbon emissions. Knowing that my work could contribute to a more sustainable future gives me a deep sense of purpose.

The support system here, from mentorship to research resources, is unparalleled, and it provides an ideal environment for me to thrive in my research and make meaningful contributions to the field.