MSc Advanced Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Kylie Ang She Tou

What were your reasons for taking on a postgraduate degree?

Similar to most pharmacy graduates, I looked for a position to complete my pre-registration training and become a pharmacist. Although I had a good time in the retail pharmacy for 18 months, I still felt that this was not the place for me to thrive. In time, I decided to apply for the postgraduate programme as I believe I am capable in bringing benefits to the whole population.

How did you make the decision to study at Strathclyde? 

The pharmaceutical industry in the UK is very well-developed, so studying in the UK was my first choice and Glasgow/Scotland was definitely one of my choices. Although I received offers from the other universities in England, I decided to choose Strathclyde because the course really caught my eye. Additionally, I was accepted into Strathclyde a couple days after applying. I was really impressed by the efficiency of the administration work at Strathclyde.

I was accepted into Strathclyde a couple days after applying. I was really impressed by the efficiency of the administration work at Strathclyde.

What do you like about your course and Strathclyde?

I really enjoy my course as it’s aligned with the Doctoral Training Centre in Continuous Manufacturing & Crystallisation (CMAC). I’m so glad to be taught by the experts from both Strathclyde and CMAC, such as scientists from GSK. This gives me a better insight of current manufacturing processes into the future medicine supply chain and inspires me to go to the lectures every day.

The facilities and services in Strathclyde are also really impressive. The resources can be easily accessed in the library and the Careers Service helps the students to manage their future pathway.

I’m so glad to be taught by the experts from both Strathclyde and CMAC, such as scientists from GSK.

What specialist knowledge/professional skills have you developed whilst studying the course?

I’ve learned a great depth of knowledge in pharmaceutical science. I’ve also gained laboratory skills, ability to use various software, interpret scientific data and operate different instruments. Another interesting point about this course is they cover business management, which allowed me to be exposed to entrepreneurial concepts, patent cliff and also learning strategic business tools and techniques.    

What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?

After graduating, I intend to involve myself in other positions in the pharmaceutical industry such as formulation development (R&D), quality assurance, regulatory and medical information. I wish to become a part of the industry where experts come together, working in a high standard environment and have fun together.

This course equipped me with vital knowledge-based skills, transferable skills, and English skills that allow me to gain a foothold in the pharma industry. As an international student, I’ve learned how to live independently and manage my time. I wish to have more opportunities to share and learn the best practices from each other in this university. Being in this competitive learning environment, I have learnt to become more competent and proactive in achieving my goals.

How have you found your time living in Glasgow and what's your favourite thing about the city?

I love Glasgow! I love the city. Whenever I feel homesick, I will walk through the city and I will realise that I am living in a very good place and life is very good to me. The bagpipe music that can be heard along the streets make me feel the culture of Scotland. Glasgow has never disappointed me with its lively lifestyle and the Scottish people are friendly. They will help you whenever you need help and it makes me feel Glasgow is my second home. Besides that, the local cuisine such as Haggis and shortbread are so delicious.

I love the city. Glasgow has never disappointed me with its lively lifestyle and the Scottish people are friendly. They will help you whenever you need help and it makes me feel Glasgow is my second home.

Has anything surprised you about living/studying here?

Snow! I am really excited to see snow while studying here. I enjoyed playing snow fights and building a snowman with friends and that was the happiest moment in my life. This is because I don’t have chance to see snow in Malaysia and I am really grateful to have this experience.

What do you do to relax in your spare time? Are you part of any clubs with the Students' Association?

I exercise during my free time and I joined Strathclyde Dancing Club. It is also a good way to meet new people and make new friends. Besides that, I went to Zumba classes whenever I am free to relax.

Have you managed to explore anywhere outside of Glasgow?

I’ve been to Edinburgh which is a very beautiful city. The buildings in Edinburgh are so beautiful and I found the castle there very breath-taking. Besides that, Loch Lomond has a lake with stunning views that is suitable for family and friends to have a short gateway from the city. What I love most about Scotland is its natural landscape.

What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to study in Glasgow at Strathclyde?

Choose the course that you really want to pursue and don’t hesitate to make decision, just come here! You'll never regret coming to Glasgow to meet people from all around the world and experience a rich and diverse culture.

You'll be learning something new everyday and the skills and knowledge that you develop here will definitely be very useful for future. Strathclyde has the resources, facilities and most importantly, the environment that I can thrive and develop as a professional in the pharmaceutical industry.

I am extremely grateful for having the opportunity to study in Glasgow and it is never too late to come back for student life and to start learning again. I urge anyone who has a huge ambition or is looking to develop themselves to study at Strathclyde!

You'll never regret coming to Glasgow to meet people from all around the world and experience a rich and diverse culture.