Kingston University London

Name: Erdinc Soylu
Age: 21
Course: MPharm Pharmacy
Level: 2nd year
Route to University: A-levels – enrolled on BSc Pharmacology course and achieved grades that enabled MPharm transfer
Accommodation: Halls of residence 1st year, family home 2nd year

“It was the influence of both pharmaceutical and clinical studies on this course that made it interesting to me. Also, I have always had good business skills and Pharmacy allows me to use these as well.

"I chose Kingston University because it is well known for its teaching and I feel I have made a good decision by coming here. I like the course, location and the friends I have made. The elements of the degree I enjoy most are the pharmacology/physiology and professional practice sessions. They both involve using your clinical skills. The lectures are really good as well. In addition to the Kingston lecturers, we get taught by the clinicians from St.George’s Hospital and this allows you to communicate with healthcare professionals.  

"The course includes work placements arranged by the University and I have also started to work for Morrison’s Pharmacy at the weekends. This allows me to practice some of the knowledge I have learned during the practicals and lectures. I particularly like the dispensing work because it enables me to familiarise myself with different medicines and their use and interactions with other medicines. As well as advising patients how to use their medications, I have also learned how pharmacists help to promote a healthy lifestyle.

"After I graduate I am planning to do a PhD in Neuroscience. My aim is to work in research and development. I’d like to search for new cures for diseases.”

Name: Rebecca Assafa
Age: 24
Course: MPharm Pharmacy
Level: 2nd year
Route to University: A-levels, science foundation course, previously did a Pharmaceutical Science degree at Kingston graduating with 2.1
Accommodation: Family home

“I have always been interested in science and finding out things to do with medicines, so I thought this would be the perfect course and, so far, I have enjoyed everything about it.  The course is taught at an appropriate pace and I like the lectures.

"However, the practicals have interested me most, especially Professional Practice.  We are put in a pharmacist’s shoes for a few hours a week and this enables us to do dispensing which is really enjoyable. 

"Through the University I have also done both community and hospital pharmacy placements.  These have helped me understand more about the way pharmacies work in the different environments.

"Kingston in general is a nice place.  The lecturers are friendly and I’ve made lots of friends here.  I look forward to coming to University every day.”