- Studied: Level 3 Science Extended Diploma
- BSc (Hons) Chemistry at The University of Manchester with Industry Experience placement at AkzoNobel.
I immediately felt comfortable when I visited College. I am so glad that I started my journey here, I would be a much different person if I hadn’t.
At Blackburn College, I made a lot of good friends. I had massive amounts of support from the pastoral team and my teachers. I knew within 10 minutes of being at College, where I could go and get help if I needed it.
I immediately felt comfortable when I visited College. I am so glad that I started my journey here, I would be a much different person if I hadn’t.
I have been in and out of hospital during my degree with Crohn’s disease which has been tough but also it has motivated me. During the middle of the pandemic when I was diagnosed, I was in a lot of pain, and I lost a lot of weight. My autism, anxiety and depression all added up but once I was able to get diagnosed, I started to feel motivated, and this made me realise that I needed to ask for help.
I am currently undertaking my year industry placement at AkzoNobel who are a large powder coating manufacturer. They specialise in coatings that don’t use drying agents like a traditional paint would use. You will find our coatings on things like toasters, washing machines and kettles.
It’s been very enlightening, I’ve been able to find out how a business functions and also how scientists and chemists work, it’s been a unique experience using specialised equipment and I am really enjoying it.
Chemistry is the one thing that I wanted to do, it’s something that challenges me and makes me work. I get a euphoric release when studying and working in chemistry.
I moved up to Newcastle for my industry placement which has helped me to learn how to adapt to new things. I’m happy with how far I have come and think I have developed a lot both academically and personally.
My mum and dad are immensely proud of me, I am the only scientist in our family.
I am the science correspondent for the student newspaper at my university and I am also involved with the chemistry society. I am considering studying a Masters once I have completed my degree.