"Make sure you leave your door open on your first day in halls - it encourages people to come and say hello!"
Karl Edwards
Age: 20
Course: Biology (third year)
“When I came to visit Nottingham, it just felt right and ticked every box – good course, beautiful campus and a lively city that’s not too big and not too small.
The course has done an awful lot to inspire me. My A levels weren’t the best, but now I’m on course for a first-class degree and am really enjoying studying. I think it’s something to do with being surrounded by other people who are trying as hard as you are, and having more independence. I particularly enjoy the practical work in the labs.
My favourite module was the Behavioural Ecology Field Course. Thirty of us spent a fortnight in Portugal, working in small groups on different aspects, and I felt like I really understood what it is to be a scientist.
You can play intramural sports at Nottingham, and I’ve played hockey for the biology team and captained my hall’s team. It’s competitive but really good fun at the same time. This year, I’m Sports Secretary of the Biology Society and I’ve helped with the open days. My open day was immensely helpful, and I want to make it the same for others.
Studying biology at Nottingham opens up lots of career options. I’ve just been accepted onto a government scheme called Teach First, which combines teaching and business placements. I think the presentations I’ve done as part of my course will really help, and the extra-curricular activities I’ve been involved in.”