Cell and Molecular Biology BSc(Hons): What our students say

"In sixth form I wasn't sure whether to study business or biology at university. But then I realised I was really interested in science, and that was what I wanted to do for my degree.

"During A-levels there were just five of us doing biology so being in a university lecture with 300 others was a real contrast. Not everyone in a lecture is necessarily studying biology so you get to see how different sciences relate to each other. Another difference between university and college is that at university you are given the whole picture so you understand the subject on a deeper level.

"One of the most interesting things I have done is a six-week lab project. You work with technicians and have to use your own initiative, researching and trying different things to get results.

"I have also enjoyed the variety of different modules the course offers. You can choose optional subjects in the second and third year. So I have been able to dive into areas that I might not have had the opportunity to study on other biology degree courses. For example, Biopsychology incorporates psychology, but also looks at the biology behind it. Next year I am doing Forensic Archaeology, which is learning about forensics but there's still biology involved. 

"I've found the teaching very good. Lecturers don't just read stuff, they give you lots of extra information. I like that there's a lot of technology used in the lectures so you are not always having to write notes. 

"The workload is quite demanding in the second year. You have to be disciplined and stick to the timetable to make sure you allow enough time for socialising and don't get behind with your work.

"On the social side, Kingston offers a huge number of clubs and societies and these can be a great support. I am part of the Christian Union. I really enjoy the Bible studies and teaching, as well as the nights out to comedy shows and the cinema. It's been brilliant because I have made friends I can always rely on. 

"But I've found my whole degree really enjoyable. It has stimulated my brain and really motivated me. It's inspired me to try to get the funding to do a PhD in neuroscience."

"I am from Norway, but chose to come to London because I've always wanted to study abroad. Since English is my second language, Britain seemed a natural choice. London is an amazing city, which is absolutely worth living in, if only for a while.

"Biology has always been an interest and, after having applied to study it at several London universities, I went to visit them. I found the lecturers I met at Kingston friendly and experienced. Additionally, the contents of the course offered by the University appealed to me.

"I really like the fact that in the second and third years you can choose freely from a list of modules, making the course geared to your areas of interest. I find many of the lecturers show a great enthusiasm for their subject and this makes the classes more interesting. Lecturers will talk freely, explaining the subject well, rather than reading off a power point presentation. They are also very hospitable during the office hours set for students to come round with queries and efficiently reply to any emails.

"One interesting element of the course was a field trip to Ashtead Common. We assessed the vegetation diversity in three areas that had each undergone a different management regime. It was a good experience to see how theory can be applied in the field and, working with plants, I learnt many Latin names that would just have seemed a nuisance in the classroom.

"I have also liked that you can do evening language courses, which you can study as part of your degree or as an extra. They are free and you can choose from a list of languages.  Also the gym here is cheap and offers all you need to keep in shape.

"I've found it very easy to settle in here. People are friendly and polite and the orientation programme for international students helped me make friends in the same situation. Naturally the first days were quite scary as I didn't know anyone and everything was new, but once I made some friends everything quickly improved.

"Kingston is also a great area to live. Being on the outskirts, you avoid the busy streets of central London, but the city is only a short train ride away. The town itself is peaceful and quietly situated by the River Thames.  It has everything you need, ranging from shops, cafes and restaurants to nightclubs with good student discounts.

"At university you're freer in every aspect than you are at college, but with that comes responsibility. You need to discipline yourself to get your work done. Overall the student life is good with many benefits, including the social life, student bars, discounts and the freedom. But the best thing is studying a subject you like in greater depth."