Lily Andrews is a second year BSc Human Neuroscience student studying at UCL’s Queen Square Institute of Neurology.
1. Why did you choose your degree?
I always knew I would pursue a STEM subject, but Human Neuroscience was not on my radar until I was browsing courses during the application process. What drew me in, and what still drives me, is my curiosity for what is yet to be discovered. Neuroscience is a relatively young science and the scope for future research is huge, which I find genuinely exciting. What also sealed it for me was looking at the first-year modules and seeing that we dive straight into neuroanatomy and neurophysiology from the very beginning, rather than having to wait until later in the degree to get to the neuroscience itself. I wanted to get straight into it, which is exactly what this course offers.
2. Why did you apply to study at UCL?
UCL was almost not on my list at all. I only considered it when I had one remaining university slot to fill, and I am so glad I did. The idea of living in London really intimidated me at first, but after looking into how amazing UCL’s research facilities are and the opportunities it can provide, I put aside my apprehensions about London and prioritised the university. I now love both UCL and London to the extent where I never want to leave.
3. What do you enjoy most about your degree?
I am really enjoying one of my current second year modules, Ageing and Dementia. It has piqued my interest much more than any other module so far. During one of the tutorials, we had the opportunity to meet a young man living with a rare form of dementia, which allowed me a glimpse into what that person’s life is like and how they manage their symptoms. This year has really brought the real-world side of my degree to life. I feel incredibly grateful to be able to bridge what I read in papers with the reality of what people actually live through.
4. What is your fondest memory of your time at UCL so far?
Not one specific memory, but a few of the same nature. Whenever the sun is still out after lectures, my friend and I hop on the tube and explore a new part of London. These little adventures have quickly become my absolute favourite part of the week, because you can never fully know London in its entirety and there is always something new. Sometimes we end up walking for hours, chatting about how amazing it is to be studying and living in central London and it is truly the best way to end a long day.
5. What would be your advice for prospective students?
For deciding where and what to study, I would recommend making a simple pros and cons list. Even if you already feel set on a choice, it is always worth re-weighing your options one final time as it can really help to highlight which option is best for you. If I had not done that, I would be living in Edinburgh right now rather than London! My other piece of advice is a practical one: start taking note of the meals you enjoy eating before you arrive, because once you’re responsible for planning your own food, it quickly becomes more overwhelming than you would expect.