Prepare for higher education with a foundation year
I moved to the UK from Italy when I was nineteen, aiming to learn the language and pursue higher education. My background before starting my undergraduate degree was in languages. When I moved to London, I had to take care of myself completely, which led me to prioritise my health. I soon discovered how food could positively impact my physical and emotional wellbeing, leading me to develop a passion for science, particularly nutrition science. The University of Greenwich had the perfect programme for me, BSc Human Nutrition and Health, which is accredited by the UK Association for Nutrition.
Being a non-native English speaker and coming from a non-scientific background, the University of Greenwich provided me with the opportunity to pursue my dream education through an Extended programme (a programme with a foundation year). The support and preparation I received from my foundation year equipped me to start my first year with confidence.
I have discovered a passion for many subjects thanks to the enthusiasm of the lecturers and the interesting course material. Lecturers have been outstanding – their presence and support have made my journey fantastic. The university has also been highly responsive to student feedback, often incorporating suggestions into the curriculum. They have also organised numerous external speakers and career opportunities workshops.
Make a positive difference on a global scale
The science of nutrition is relatively new, but its impact on our lives is immense. It's not just about understanding food, it’s about how we can use that knowledge to improve our lives, support our families, and make a difference on a global scale. I consider nutrition to be among the most important fields of study.
My degree has opened career opportunities for me. I am now a Registered Associate Nutritionist. In the future I see myself helping people on both individual and community levels, as well as contributing to important research. Thanks to the support received from the University, I have been able to achieve academic excellence, and I have been accepted for an Master’s degree at another university where I will further specialise in clinical and public health nutrition.
The University has further provided me with extensive lab experience and significant support in academic writing. This foundation has also prepared me to continue my research, potentially helping people who suffer from diet-related non-communicable diseases.
Work hard and exceed your expectations
When I was announced as a prize winner (School of Science Award – Best Human Nutrition Student), I was extremely happy. It felt incredibly rewarding to know that my sacrifices and long study hours had been recognised and appreciated. Being acknowledged in this way was a validation of my hard work. My advice to current students aiming to become prize winners is to seek support whenever needed and to avoid procrastination. The key to my academic achievements has been to never leave anything to the last minute and to be consistent with my work. Establish a regular study routine, stay on top of your assignments, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your professors or peers. Consistency and time management are what will take you to the next level!
