Rosie Day

What made you want to apply to your course and to Leeds?

I liked the look of blending of STEM and humanities, as I found my academic strength was essay writing, but my interests centred on biology and the human condition. Leeds as a city was incredibly appealing as a big, vibrant, bustling centre of culture, with much more opportunity than I had at home.

What is it that makes you passionate about your area of study?

I find that study of philosophy is relatively inert without a comprehensive understanding of the natural world and how it has evolved, and that Biology teaching often lacks a critical, more human lens, so combining the two gives an informed, nuanced perspective on both subjects.

What aspects of the course do you enjoy the most?  

I really enjoy tutorials, as they’re a forum for discussion, to share and be exposed to different ideas. I find the practical labs in Biology great fun too, as you’re really given the chance to apply theoretical knowledge in real life.

What would you say about the learning facilities in your School and at the University in general?

Very good, there are great provisions for all sorts of study preference; silent sections of the libraries, cafes where you can work on campus, study spaces with comfy furniture, canteen halls with hot food and ample seating. The University is very comfortable, well-kept and up to date, and the learning resources offered are expansive: the libraries have every text you could possibly imagine, access to journals, newspapers, magazines and paywalled collections. 

Have you worked closely with a particular tutor or member or the University’s academic staff? Tell us about that experience. 

Tom Bennet from FOBS has been instrumental in helping me prepare for my master’s course, by writing references, proof-reading my personal statement and providing academic support. Many tutors have gone out of their way to support me through illness and absence, which has been absolutely brilliant.

What other activities are available for students to take part in outside of their studies, and which ones have you tried out yourself?

Leeds offers virtually every activity under the sun, from the competitive e-sports society to Norman re-enactment, to the brass band, to rugby. Every interest is catered for by student-run, well-funded societies, which organise meetings, trainings, competitions, and socials. I am a member of Leeds Gymnastics Society, which I joined as a beginner in first year, and love. The sports facilities are great, and the socials provide an easy opportunity to get out and see everyone each week, often with absurd costumes and fun challenges. I also play in the LUUMS Symphony orchestra, which is of a very high standard, and get to perform in various venues with some very good players.

What do you plan to do when you’ve finished your course, and how do you think the skills and knowledge you’ve developed so far at Leeds will help with these plans?

I am hoping to join the Physician Associate Studies MSc course and go on to work in healthcare. Leeds has provided the perfect foundation for this, by offering great breadth in my course and engaged academic and pastoral support.

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying to your course?

Go for it!