Theodora Cantea is a 1st year Biomedical Scientist who enrolled through Clearing in 2019. Theodora shares her advice for those applying through Clearing this year, what students can expect studying Biomedical Science at St George’s, and her overall experience at the University.
“The advice I would give to students applying through Clearing this year, based on my experience, would be to ask a lot of questions. The more you know, the less apprehensive you will be. I would also advise applicants to research as much as they can about the course before applying and, ultimately, to apply quickly!
“It is normal to have to wait for a decision so having someone by your side the whole time really helps.”
Studying in a hospital helps a lot
“I have honestly loved my experience so far at St George's! Being a smaller university than some means that students get a very personal experience and can get to know people really well. There are so, so many things to get involved with and everyone is super friendly! It really is up to you to immerse yourself in all that the University has to offer.”
“Also, the fact that St George's is inside a hospital helps a lot with resources and research. Studying here really puts into perspective what you can expect in the working world as a healthcare professional. For example, being here led to me working as a Healthcare Assistant and gaining clinical experience, even as a first year Biomedical Science student.
“The course is similar to what I had expected; A Levels have given me the foundation on which a lot of my knowledge this year was built on. There was more content than I imagined but it was manageable, particularly once I had developed a routine.
“For someone who commutes in to university from home like me, remote learning has been very smooth! Like all change it took time to adjust to, but once I had gotten focused, I found what worked for me.
“Lecture-wise it may feel like you have more time than usual to digest things so try to stay on top of the content and review it regularly. You can’t expect to go through a lecture once and that's it, you’ll need to constantly repeat things for them to stick. I think it is important with academia to adopt a 'growth mindset' and know that university is a whole new level of knowledge and understanding so take it bit by bit!
Not just academics
“I would also advise creating a space that you turn into your 'focus space' and be strict with yourself but also remember university is not just academics. It wouldn't feel like university if you do not carry on exposing yourself to lots of different experiences. Of course, with restrictions in place, this will look different but so many St George’s societies are already adapting so just hunt them all out online and take that step of confidence to form those friendships and try out everything you can!
“The non-academic part of St Georges is absolutely fab! I signed up to so many things and tried to give them all a go whilst keeping an open mind and then chose to commit to a few for the year.
“You also have the flexibility to shape your university experience, want to join a society but it doesn't exist yet? No problem, you can start it. I have missed St George's so much throughout lockdown and will never take the friendships and every lecture/tutorial in that building for granted when we can return.”