Tim knew he wanted to develop his knowledge and find new challenges. He had been considering undertaking a Master’s degree in global counter fraud law. This all changed when, at the company where he worked, he was given a case about an oncologist to investigate.
As I worked on the case, I became fascinated by the treatment, diagnostics and aftercare processes of cancer. And then I realised it was the biology and science I was drawn to in my role, not the fraud aspect.
With the support of his wife and two children, Tim made the exciting decision to return to higher education to pursue an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science at the University of Greenwich. He describes his subject as “the study of the cellular and biological processes of life, primarily human life.” Through his course, Tim is able to explore a variety of biomedical disciplines including haematology, cellular pathology, genetics and biochemical processes.
Tim attended several open days at different universities when looking for the right place to study, but he didn’t feel empowered by the lecturers he met there. He then attended an open day at the University of Greenwich with his family, and he found the university welcoming and accommodating. It was Associate Professor Dr Abigail Rickard's way of involving his children in the discussions that convinced Tim this was the right university for him.
Tailored support
The University of Greenwich believes in providing opportunities for all students, regardless of their backgrounds. The university was recently ranked as one of the top five universities for social mobility, which is a ranking based on how the university has helped students from disadvantaged backgrounds achieve higher wages. The university is also committed to supporting mature students such as Tim. When looking at student applications, the university strives to consider relevant life skills and work experience alongside academic qualifications.
Dr Abigail Rickard explains “at the University of Greenwich we pride ourselves on really getting to know our students. We can tailor our support and advice to every person that joins us. We know that in addition to their studies, our students have a variety of exciting and important commitments in their lives.”
Deeply satisfying
In Tim’s view, the Covid pandemic has highlighted the importance of studying biomedical science as it can contribute to a career in identifying viruses and developing vaccines.
“Every single disease affecting humans today, from AIDS to zoonotic diseases, are waiting to be identified, quantified, and resolved by curious scientists.”
Tim receives the most satisfaction from his subject when he develops an understanding of a topic. In an essay assignment on gall bladder removal, he was able to research deeper and identify genetic markers relating to those people at risk, which he found “deeply satisfying.”
A more fulfilling career
Upon reflection, Tim realised the fraud case he was given to investigate only jolted in him a passion that was already there. He remembers enjoying playing sports at school but then wanting to go further and understand exactly how the body works.
Tim is happy to have made the decision to return to higher education and believes now was the right time for him to do this. He hopes to start a new, more fulfilling career working in an NHS lab once he graduates, improving life for himself and his family. He is also considering undertaking a postgraduate degree. The University of Greenwich itself offers a Biotechnology Master’s degree, which incorporates elements of chemistry, biology and cell biology.
Although he had concerns about becoming a student again, Tim found a great “community spirit” at the University of Greenwich, which put his worries at ease and allowed him to concentrate on achieving his new goals.
“It’s a welcoming and supportive environment that makes you feel at home. And the cakes in the library café are so good!”
