Carla Brown

Carla Brown, from Edinburgh, graduated in 2011 with a Bsc Microbiology.

Why did you choose to study at Dundee?

After attending the Dundee University open day I was attracted to the intimacy of the campus layout. Other universities I had visited left me feeling completely overwhelmed and slightly intimidated, however walking around Dundee campus I felt comfortable and at ease. In addition to this, I was also very impressed with the passion and enthusiasm of the Life Sciences staff and students.

What is the best thing about your course and why?

Microbiology has many great aspects but overall I find the ever evolving nature of this subject highly stimulating. Almost every year new species are being identified and new concepts are being realised, hence it is great to have the freedom to invent your own ideas and propose new models derived from research and work you have read.

What information do applicants need to know before starting this course?

Applicants need to know what is expected from them. A lot of students I have met in my four years have treated university like a social club and failed to take it seriously. Although maintaining an active social life is important, you must divide your time wisely and ensure that deadlines are met and all work is done to a high standard. Failure to embrace this attitude early on will do you no favours when the work load increases as you progress.

What has been your best learning experience to date and why?

My best learning experience was during my level two summer exams. Unlike previous exams, I reduced my study time and gave myself more breaks in between. This change in my revision method proved to be highly beneficial as with more sleep and less stress I found the exams far more enjoyable and attained better grades. From this I learned that making time for yourself during revision is as important as the studying itself.

What has been your best university experience to date and why?

In my four years at Dundee University I would say my best experience was winning a prize for my academic achievements in Microbiology. Although gaining good exam results was great in itself, winning a prize showed me that Dundee University really does recognise and reward hard working students.

What sports activities or clubs/societies are you involved with?

I mostly spend my spare time during the week at the gym; I've found that during stressful periods a few sessions a week definitely leave me feeling far more relaxed! In addition to this, I am also a member of the Life Sciences Society. Not only does this society keep me updated on interesting upcoming seminars, meetings are a great place to go for academic support as everyone is aware of the stress you are under.

Have you taken part in any student exchanges/work placements?

During the summer of 2010 I was lucky enough to carry out a summer project in the Wellcome Trust Centre, working in the Nicola Stanley-Wall lab. Throughout this project I looked into the mechanisms and factors driving biofilm formation in the model organism Bacillus subtilis. Overall, this project was extremely helpful as it introduced me to the world of research and improved my confidence and laboratory techniques. If I could recommend one thing to Life Science students it would be to do at least one work placement in the area of their choice.

What was your experience of settling into life in Dundee when you first arrived?

Honestly, I think my first few weeks in Dundee were one of the best periods of my life. Although slightly terrifying, it was amazing to meet all these new people who were as excited about learning as I was. They say that you make friends for life at university and I completely agree with this view. The great thing about first year however, is that you are introduced into your subject slowly, giving you time to change your subject choice if needs be!

Do you have any advice for potential new students?

Do not be scared to try anything and the best is all you can do! What I have learned from my four years at Dundee University is that to achieve your goals you have to be determined, hard working and realistic. Some people can't study for 12 hours a day, and that's fine! Find a routine that suits you and stick to it because at the end of the day it's your degree and your university experience.