Chemistry MChem: What our students say

"I did A-levels at school, and then went straight to university to read chemistry. I was not prepared for the experience and lacked the emotional development required, and in addition to this I had big problems with my dyslexia. The uni in question was not very helpful, so I left and began working.

"After seven years working I decided to try university again this time I chose Kingston (the correct choice). [Kingston] had been my second choice when I went to uni the first time around. My cousin had since studied business here and loved it. When I came to the open days the staff were friendly and approachable and put up with my endless questions (I think I attended at least three or four open days all at Kingston).

"I have always been interested in science; I like the fact that chemistry is an in-between science (between physics and biology). I like the 'making' (synthesis) that is required in chemistry. I am fascinated by colour, and the interaction of matter and the reasons behind it all. The physical chemistry answers all sorts of questions and poses even more. The organic question is creative, and the inorganic chemistry sits nicely in the middle.

"The teaching is great. The class sizes are reasonably small with lots opportunities to ask questions and get help both in workshops and in staff office hours... and impromptu visits. The lectures are interesting, well organised, and the handouts are clear and useful. We get loads of access to the equipment, which from talking to students at some other uni's is not something that is universal.

"Professor Tyrrell organised an extracurricular summer studentship for me at the end of my second year. It was a great experience and I think I really benefited from it, as it massively increased my confidence in the lab and gave me an insight in to research. I think I really noticed the benefit during my project.

"As a mature student, I was very apprehensive, but the lecturers [Dr Mann, Dr Miller Tate, Dr Singer, Dr Williams, and Dr Banti] that lead the events in the first week were all really friendly and welcoming. When the lectures started I found that the friendly welcoming feel was replicated by the other staff and help was always available if needed.

"I would like to enter a career in research; this ambition has been fostered and nurtured by the staff here at Kingston.  And they have given me the confidence to give it a go!

"Chemistry is a great subject and Kingston is a great place to study it!"

"I chose Kingston University because it was recommended by my college teachers and is close to my home. I decided to do this course because it's chemistry-based and I can get into medicine after finishing or go on to do a further MSc qualification.

"Overall I enjoyed my first year very much. The lectures are one of the best things about the course as they are so easy to understand. I also find the link between lectures and practicals really interesting as you see how everything falls together. Another thing I like is the way the year is divided into two, which makes it easier to pass exams. 

"You have to be much more independent at university than at college.  Everything is down to you, although help is there if you need it. Last year I struggled with the workload a bit – for example, because I had a lot of work-like assignments and revision for exams. I spoke to my personal tutor and he put me in touch with the student support officer. She helped and guided me through the year.

"After I graduate, I still want to go into medicine and to do an MBBS (a qualifying course to practice medicine), but this course has given me the opportunity to do MSc as well. I am not 100% sure which to choose yet so I'll just see how this year goes."

"I am from France but decided to study in Britain, partly to improve my language skills, but also because I wanted to do a specialised degree straight away. In France you cannot specialise – everybody studies the same things until after they have been at university for four or five years.

"I chose this course because I studied chemistry, but preferred biology. In France I would have to have continued in chemistry. Medicinal chemistry allows me to mix both biology and chemistry and, after graduating, maybe choose to study just biology. 

"I came to Kingston because a friend in France had been here and told me about the University. I like the town as it's near London, there are lots of shops – and it doesn't rain nearly as much as I expected!

"On the course I have enjoyed learning about cells and tissue. It's very interesting.  I really also like organic chemistry. Generally, I find it interesting to talk about the human system.

"The teaching is very good. I like the workshops because we are close to the teacher so, if you don't understand something, you can ask questions. Also, if you need to, you can see the tutors in their offices to go through things.

"I haven't had any problems settling in at the University, although the language can be difficult. I understand what I need to on the course, but one of the teachers is very funny and unfortunately I can't always understand his jokes!"