Tsi Lok Ho, Clinical Neuroscience MSc

Why did you choose to study your programme and what made you choose the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology?

The UCL Institute of Neurology is a world-knowledge academic powerhouse with over 400 Principal Investigators engaged in research. I have found academic collaboration at Queen Square remarkably streamlined and rewarding with the National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery a part of the UCLH system. Close collaboration and communication among teams of clinicians, surgeons, and basic scientists make possible fast-paced translational research and holistic discussions about the future of neuroscience.

What do enjoy most about your programme?

The Clinical Neuroscience MSc is an incredibly well-supported programme with an accessible education team based at Queen Square. I particularly enjoy my optional modules which enable a deep dive into specific techniques in basic neuroscience research previously unknown to me as a medical student.

What impact has receiving the scholarship had for you?

The scholarship has dramatically increased my ability to explore extracurricular interests in neuroscience through textbooks and UCL conferences. If not for the generous financial support, I would have likely worked a part-time job which would distract me from coursework and limit my potential at Queen Square. I am sincerely grateful for the scholarship.

What advice would give prospective students thinking of studying at the Queen Square Institute of Neurology?

As a student ambassador for the Faculty of Brain Sciences, I encourage prospective students to plan early and demonstrate their enthusiasm in neuroscience. Identifying key areas in this broad field of research will also help you find your footing during this year of intensive studies.

What are your plans for the future once you have completed your degree?

I am an aspiring clinician-scientist in the fields of neurology and neurosurgery. I hope to translate my experiences at the IoN into quality-of-life improvements for patient care. As External Vice President of the Hong Kong Student Association of Neuroscience, I will continue advocating for deeper integration and collaboration between scientists and clinicians for high-impact clinical research.

Is there anything else you would like to say about your time at the Queen Square Institute of Neurology?

I am grateful to the Faculty for the experiences this year and for the honour which is the Scholarship.