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My advice to international students considering UCL is to stay open-minded and embrace everything London has to offer.
BSc Biomedical Science (Year 1)
What attracted you to your course and studying at UCL?
What attracted me to studying Biomedical Science at UCL was the flexibility of the course. The chance to choose a specific stream of study in my second year really stood out, as it allows me to tailor my degree to my interests. This gives me the opportunity to focus on the areas I’m most passionate about while still building a strong foundation in the subject.
UCL itself appealed to me because of its diversity, both in the variety of degree options and in its student community. Being part of a university that brings together people from so many different backgrounds was something particularly appealing to me.
Aside from studying, how do you like to spend your time? Are you involved in any clubs or societies?
Outside of studying, I love exploring London with my friends. There's always something different to do, whether it’s discovering new places around the city or just walking through different areas. On some weekends, I also have football games, which is a great way to stay active and have fun.
At UCL, I’m involved in several societies that align with my interests. I'm a member of the RUMS Football team, the Italian Society, the Cancer Alliance Society, and the Biomedical Science Society. These have been great for meeting new people and connecting with others who share my interests, especially in biomedical science and healthcare.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Most days I wake up and go to my lectures for a few hours in the morning. After that, I usually grab lunch with my friends at one of the UCL cafes. Some afternoons, I have labs, while on other days, I’ll study in one of the libraries or head back to my accommodation for my tutoring job. When I'm not studying or working, I like to hang out with my friends, and in the evening, I usually meet with my flat mates for dinner in our kitchen
What is your favorite thing about studying in London?
My favorite thing about studying in London is how there’s always something to do and new things to see. Whether it’s exploring different areas of the city or finding new places to visit, it never gets boring. Living in such a big city has also helped me become more independent. It’s taught me how to navigate my way around, manage my time more effectively, and take on more responsibility. t’s been a great opportunity for personal growth and has made my experience at UCL even more rewarding.
Do you have any tips on managing the cost of living in London?
One of the best ways to save money is by taking advantage of student discounts, which many places offer, from transport to restaurants. Also, if you use public transport regularly, an Oyster card is a great investment for more affordable travel around the city. Lastly, if you shop at the same grocery store often, getting club or loyalty cards can help reduce your grocery bills, even if it’s just by a little.
What has surprised you most about studying at UCL and in London?
What surprised me most about studying at UCL and in London is that, despite how big and busy everything seemed before I arrived, it hasn’t felt overwhelming at all. The support at UCL is great, and the city itself feels manageable once you get used to it.
What do you plan to do in the future?
In the future, I hope to pursue a PhD and then work in pharmacological research, focusing on discovering treatments for various diseases. I’m especially interested in finding better ways to treat conditions that don’t have effective treatments yet.
What advice would you give to other international students thinking about studying at UCL?
My advice to international students considering UCL is to stay open-minded and embrace everything London has to offer. It’s easy to get caught up in studies, but make sure to explore the city, join clubs, and meet new people. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it, UCL has great support services.