Hollie Wardle - MSci Chemistry

Chemical rules govern so much of our lives it’s inescapable, and I want to answer the questions I’ve been asking since I was a little girl.

Why did you choose your degree?

I’ve been fascinated by learning how things work since I was tiny. When I got further through school, I realised that everything I was interested in explaining ultimately came back to chemistry. Chemical rules govern so much of our lives it’s inescapable, and I want to answer the questions I’ve been asking since I was a little girl.

Why did you apply to study at UCL?

Ultimately, I chose UCL due to the research prowess within the department. Chemistry can become so theory-focused so I knew I wanted to go somewhere I can be surrounded by cutting-edge real science- and at UCL there’s such a broad range of research it’s guaranteed I’d find something I was interested in.

What is the best thing about your course?

How accessible many of the academics in the department are and how much they love what they do. I love to talk to anyone about what they do and learn anything I can.

What do you find interesting about your field of study and what inspires you?

Environmental-focused chemistry is very interesting to me. In particular, I’m fascinated by sustainable materials chemistry: solar cells, green energy storage and environmentally-friendly plastics. I’m inspired by those around me that want to understand but struggle to cut through the jargon; I want to make science accessible to everyone, but I need to get a good grip on it myself first.

Do you think studying at UCL Chemistry is a good investment?

Absolutely. It is very expensive living in London, but the experiences and education you get out of it makes such a big difference to your life.

What is it like studying in London and how do you think it has benefited your studies?

Being in London, I’m in the middle of a golden triangle of world-class research universities. There is so much going on so close to where I live that I’m never stuck for things to write about and people to talk to. Plus, there’s so much culture in London that’s so unlike anywhere else in the country.

What are your career plans once you’ve completed your current programme of study at UCL?

I’m looking to do a PhD in materials chemistry, before going into science communication.