Omosalewa, came from Nigeria, to study Advanced Biochemistry at Strathclyde. Here she tells us about her experience...
What led you to postgraduate study at Strathclyde?
Before studying Advanced Chemistry MSc, I gained my Bachelor’s degree at Bells University of Technology in Ota, where I studied biochemistry. Prior to that, I completed my Higher National Diploma in the same field from Lagos State Polytechnic in Ikorodu.
My quest to pursue a postgraduate degree was born out of the curiosity to acquire more knowledge about my discipline, biochemistry, and to contribute to that body of knowledge through research, seminars and publications.
My decision to study at the University of Strathclyde was based on information obtained while I was seeking to apply to the top university on the university ranking site. When I visited Strathclyde's website, I discovered that the institution had received several awards and prizes for excellence and student experience. I chose to study here because I believed this is the best place for me. The enviable profiles of the academic staff at the institution also reaffirmed my perception of the institution as being a great place to further my studies.
What do you like about your course?
The desire to know more about human genetic and disease mechanisms is what interests me about my course. The teaching methodology, which comprises essay writing, journal review, quizzes, lab work, lectures and workshops, has enabled me to gain great insight into the subject.
While studying the course I have gained knowledge in how to carry out genetics studies, cloning, experimental design, the transformation of bacteria and good laboratory report writing skills. I have also gained presentation and data analysis skills, and have improved my knowledge of Microsoft Office tools, such as Excel.
What are your ambitions for the future?
My future goal is to become a consultant in clinical biochemistry and a lecturer in a University. After completing my Master’s degree, I will proceed to start my PhD degree in clinical biochemistry or oncology.
My Master’s program is greatly preparing me for my future goals. For instance, in the postgraduate topics in clinical biochemistry module I gained a lot of knowledge about advancement in clinical practices in biochemistry, such as how to identify different types of disease markers and physiological implications.
How have you found your time living in Glasgow, and what's your favourite aspect of the city?
Glasgow is a beautiful place to live. With the availability of cafés, restaurants, museums, and parks, my friends and I have enjoyed every corner of the city centre. The Glaswegians are wonderful, friendly people with great hospitality. I love the accent and I'm trying to learn how to speak it! The general saying "People make Glasgow" is very true. The availability of different modes of transportation is also a great thing I love about Glasgow, other towns are easily accessible either by bus, rail and by air.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to study in Glasgow at Strathclyde?
You have made the right choice by choosing the University of Strathclyde. You will enjoy every bit of your stay and your class activities, and the course content is huge enough to position you for a great future. You will be supplied with a lot of resources to help and support you and you will meet great lecturers who are ready to direct your path. Although it is challenging it is worth it, they say nothing good comes easy.
