Course: BSc Biomedical Science
Level: Third Year
Hometown: South Norwood
Other information: I came to Kingston straight from 6th form. I spent my early childhood in Congo (DRC) and came to England when I was 15. I speak three languages: English, French and Lingala. I have undertaken placements in a disabled care home and at Guy's and St Thomas' hospital. I am part of the Boxing club at University. I am a Kingston University student ambassador and a Compact student.
I chose Kingston because... of the support and help and the Compact scheme available to care-leavers. I get help for my literacy and study skills.
I have got to where I am now.... it was really a challenge for me to get to University. I have overcome great personal loss and adversity but have still made it. The first barrier was the language. When I came to this country I didn't know any words of English. I have taken a non-traditional route into University - having no GCSE's, A-levels and speaking very little English. However I am ambitious, and with hard work, I got an offer to study at Kingston. I almost lost my place at University due to a lack of status at the time as I was waiting for the Home Office to make a decision on my case, but luckily it got sorted in time.
My plans for the future are... to finish my degree with a good grade so that I can transfer to medical school. Hopefully I will become a doctor one day.
My top tips are to make friends with people who want to learn. Don't leave coursework until the last minute and make the most of University. It goes really fast - so have fun!
I could not live without my laptop. It allows me to do my research and coursework.
My mum is my hero. She is an inspiration to me. She always believed and stands by me.
"It is a good thing to speak to current students and the University website has links and advice on what is required for your course. In the first week of University, the course director will give you a talk and advise you about what to buy. "
"Doing research on the website is an important thing to do before starting a course. I attended different open days at different universities. It helped me a lot when I had to choose my firm choice. I chose my course because it is a great path to lead me into medical school. I don't have an A-level background but it did not stop me pursuing my dreams!"
"I applied for a student bank account and student loans early on (around April). Because I had a conditional offer I worked very hard at college."
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