Storm Anderson, MSc Stroke Medicine

Storm Anderson, from South Africa, is studying a MSc Stroke Medicine at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology.   

1. What is your educational background?

Undergraduate degree and clinical experience from Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa. 

2. What are your motivations for pursuing a graduate-level qualification?

Specialising in my field.

3. Why did you apply to UCL for graduate study?

UCL was the only university offering such a specialised Master’s degree. It was exactly what I wanted to do. 

4. What is the best thing about your course?

The lecturers, resources and campus.

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

The lecturers and my fellow peers are a daily inspiration. Being surrounded by such passionate researchers and clinicians is hugely motivating and has exposed me to a different world!

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

Work in a stroke rehabilitation centre with adult/stroke patients and possibly pursue a PhD the following year.

7. Do you think studying at UCL Faculty of Brain Sciences is a good investment?

Best investment I have ever made.

8. Have you undertaken any networking opportunities either as part of your degree or outside of your studies?

My residential college has been the ideal platform to meet fellow researchers and students.

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

London, especially Bloomsbury is a student utopia. It often feels like a student community. There are ample opportunities to engage with students from other London universities and meet new people.

10. Has there been an element of your degree programme that has impressed you or been particularly valuable?

The small, intimate lectures have been a wonderful surprise. It has been so beneficial to be able to interact with the lecturers in a relaxed setting and to be able to discuss topics with lecturers as fellow colleagues. It was great to engage in meaningful conversations with such brilliant minds. 

11. Is there anything else you would like to say about your time at the Faculty of Brain Sciences?

I have thoroughly enjoyed being a UCL student, especially at the Faculty of Brain Sciences and it has been the best decision I could have made for myself. I only wish I could stay a UCL student for another year!