Hello! Back in late April 2024, I decided to undertake an integrated Master’s program, due to my placement applications not quite panning out the way I would have liked them to. However, my final interview really paid off, and now I’m three months deep into my Industrial Placement at the Centre for Biomarker Research. It’s the perfect moment to reflect and share some of my experiences.
First Impressions
The first thing to say is that I am 100% loving my placement. It’s at the University of Huddersfield, and I’m working in one of their research departments. What’s really struck me is how much time we spend in the lab. There are two placement students (including me), and our day is from 9 AM to 4 PM, with all of this time being dedicated to lab work. I was really hoping this placement would make the lab feel like second nature, but I didn’t think it would happen so quickly. By early October, everything felt so natural, and learning new techniques wasn’t as scary as I thought it would be. I’m already feeling more confident about using my degree after graduation.
Moving to Huddersfield was quite intense, as I was stepping out of my comfort zone. I thought about commuting at first, since I had no previous experience with Huddersfield. However, I reached out to some previous placement students at the Centre of Biomarker Research via email, and they gave me valuable advice regarding accommodation, which was a huge help. I should not have been so nervous, because it’s been an amazing experience so far. Huddersfield is a very different place to York, but I can honestly say I love them both. My accommodation is great, and my flatmates are too. It was definitely worth the risk of moving away again, and I’d 100% recommend it to anyone thinking about relocating to somewhere completely new for a placement.
Settling In
It turned out to be easier to get settled than I thought, since I moved in on Sunday and started work on Monday. So, I didn’t have much time to worry about nerves and had to jump right into a routine. This was just what I needed as an individual, because the busy nature of the placement meant I could remain occupied with the long working hours right away. Plus, during my free time, it was wonderful to explore a whole new place in Huddersfield, and the fresh surroundings have been a welcome change. Also, getting to know new restaurants, places to do things, and shopping with friends has really helped me feel at home in the city.
From the outset, I have recognised the demanding nature of laboratory work. This was evident from the practicals undertaken at university, but has become more apparent during placement. However, it is equally rewarding. My day is spent entirely in the laboratory where I also complete all my computer work, and data analysis. In just a few months, I have developed a greater level of confidence and can now review and manage my own experiments. Currently, I am working on cloning a gene to investigate its relationship with neuropathic pain. Cloning has provided me with extensive experience in a wide range of scientific techniques, from basic skills such as accurate pipetting to more advanced ones including cell culturing.
These skills will be crucial for my future university studies and career aspirations.
My Experiences Compared to What I Expected
My experiences have exceeded my expectations. During my placement search a previous student provided invaluable support with interviews, CV advice, and general guidance. She also provided practical insights into the benefits of placement years. This placement has already surpassed my initial aspirations.
I was pleasantly surprised by my early comfort in the laboratory. I had anticipated a more gradual process, particularly once we were working independently. However, I have been surprised by my progress. I previously worried about feeling shy and not asking questions or seeking assistance when necessary, particularly given similar experiences at university and in my previous studies. This placement, however, is highly focused on developing our scientific skills. Consequently, I have been able to ask numerous questions and gain a comprehensive understanding of both the techniques, and the reasoning behind the experiments. I would advise anyone to ask many questions as it is the most effective method of learning, and may even lead to a science or research area that is genuinely fulfilling.
I am grateful for the opportunity to work at the Centre for Biomarker Research this year. The support from my supervisors and my connections at York, has been invaluable in building my confidence as a scientist, and enabling me to embrace new challenges and make the most of this opportunity.
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