Nicholas Bianchini is studying our Genomic Medicine MSc. He tells us about his experience of joining St George's as an international student and how the course is preparing him for a career in genetic research.
"If you have a passion for genomics, this course is for you. It is extremely flexible and suits people of all professions, from doctors to pharmacists to newly graduated students looking to further their education."
Please tell us about your academic and professional background
In 2023, I graduated in M.Sc. (Hons) Medical Biochemistry from the University of Malta. This course helped me uncover a deep passion for genomics, as I carried out my dissertation on analysing rare genetic variants and their clinical association amongst a cohort of 383 Maltese individuals diagnosed with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disorders.
Why did you choose to study your course at St George’s?
I chose St George’s for a variety of reasons. Firstly, for their research excellence which resonates deeply with my career goals. I was also struck by their TEF silver award in teaching frameworks and the university being ranked amongst the top spots for graduate prospects which made me feel more at ease about starting a career after completing my education. Finally, the nail in the coffin was all the positive reviews I heard about the university from alumni. They had nothing but high praise for the course, professors and the university.
What do you enjoy most about your course?
I especially enjoy how the curriculum is interactive and based upon on-going and relevant research. This helps me engage more in the lessons and gives me the sense that what I am learning is relevant and important for the betterment of society and healthcare. I also really enjoy the high quality teaching and the dissertation opportunities. Being able to be part of leading research is very exciting.
What are the key skills that you’ve gained during your course?
Some of the main key skills I have gained through this course so far include, improved academic writing, teamwork and research methodologies. I look forward to acquiring new key skills through my remaining modules and dissertation, which I have no doubt I have a lot to learn from.
Do you have any specific careers aspirations?
My career aspirations include undergoing a PhD and ultimately working in a bioinformatics lab leading ground-breaking genetic research that will contribute to the eradication of certain diseases that affect a significant proportion of the population. St George’s is helping me achieve these goals by creating lectures provided by well acclaimed healthcare professionals with multiple years of experience under their belt. By learning from these professionals, I can understand what it takes and what key skills are required of me to form part of such ground-breaking research one day. Moreover, many St George’s alumni go on to do a PhD at the university which shows that hard work does not go unnoticed and is rewarded.
Are you involved in any extra-curricular activities?
I am currently enrolled with the St George’s football team. I love that I can get a break from studying and everyday student life and play my favourite sport with other people in a similar position to me. Furthermore, it helped me socialise and create new friendships, which is great, especially since I am an international student, and it is not always easy to make new friends.
What are your favourite places to socialise in Tooting and why?
The Dragon Bar is a great place to hang around and socialise with other students, with regular DJ nights, quizzes and other fun activities, it is a top spot for any student. Other than that Tooting is filled with many pubs, restaurants and other great places to go out for a drink or some food with friends and enjoy some time off from university. All one must do is walk along the streets of Tooting and they will realise they are spoilt for choice.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying your course?
Go for it. If you have a passion for genomics, this course is for you. It is extremely flexible and suits people of all professions, from doctors to pharmacists to newly graduated students looking to further their education. The professors are amazing and very helpful, and the course is designed to make you as prepared as possible for whatever field you would like to specialise in. If you still have any doubts, the St George’s staff will surely provide you with pristine advice and settle your doubts. As an international student, moving to a new country was daunting, but St George’s made my experience much smoother. Honestly, choosing this course is a no brainer.
Describe St George’s in 3 words
Prestigious, research-focused, diverse.