Justina Blair chose to study a BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science at Merton because of the variety of extra-curricular studies and external visits that the College provides. She achieved D*D*D and secured offers to study a Bio-medical Science degree with all the universities she applied to.
Why did you choose to study Applied Science at Merton College?
There are plenty of practical activities which has greatly boosted my understanding of scientific techniques such as looking at a heartbeat under a microscope, teamwork has built strong friendship groups outside of the classroom too.
At least once a term, we go on study visits and there are many extracurricular activities to partake in outside of the classroom. For example, the college provided forensic and science students with a two-day forensic experience, where we investigated a crime scene and competed for medals in teams. This allowed both year one and two students to integrate.
What do you enjoy about being a College student?
The teachers are down to earth and the support I have been provided with has contributed to my grades of D*D*D. Merton College is fruitful in its activities such as table tennis, boxing, Jack Petchy and a college gym which I have taken part in. The high number of practical activities during class also produces a ground to make friends and work as a team. inside college but issues that may be bothering you outside of college too which means all students have overall positive relationships with teachers. College is not just about learning, there is support across all departments and the environment is extremely friendly and safe. I have learnt vital skills and knowledge that will get me ahead in the job market.
Next steps…
I have secured offers with the universities I applied for, to study a bio-medical science undergraduate degree. However, I am additionally looking into degree-funded apprentices in finance, to keep my options open. This will be my second year at the College which means I will no longer need to study here as I will have achieved: D*D*D in my level three science qualification.
Do you have any advice to future students?
My advice to anyone looking to study at Merton College is if you are uncertain about which course to take, applied science, being highly practical based, based provides all students with a good framework whether you want to peruse a career in science or not. This course is ideal if you want to peruse a career in biological studies, or if you are unsure what you want to do, due to its high versatility across employment institutions.
