College helped me gain awareness, via the Aspire programme, of potential career paths after A levels and guided me through the process of applying for – and getting into – my desired university. Alongside my studies, I also took part in a range of extra-curricular activities including table tennis and classic album club.

One of my favourite course-based experiences was the biology ecology field trip in year 13. Whilst being a fun trip, it also gave me general experience in the environmental sector and has contributed to my decision to take ecology modules in the second year of my degree.

Since leaving College, I’ve gone on to study Biological Sciences at Exeter. I love the course because it offers a wide range of modules in the first year that give you a broad view of the subject, perfect for if you’re still unsure what area of biology you want to study.

While exams and essays are still a big thing, there is also a focus on coursework – mostly how you perform in practicals. Occasionally, these can be stressful but they do give you great hands-on experience of what it’s like to work in a lab, for example.

In my first year, I decided I wanted to switch to a Master’s degree programme as it provides an opportunity to do an extended lab project in a niche area. It’s the sort of experience that would give me a much better understanding of what a career in science may look like. While I wait to see if my request for a Master’s is approved, for my next step I’m hoping to get a summer studentship working in a lab under the supervision of one of my animal biology lecturers.

Although it may seem daunting, I would advise Lower Sixth students to start researching universities or apprenticeships early on, just to get an idea of what sort of careers are out there. I’d also recommend keeping on top of your work from the very start because it can be hard to get back on track if you fall behind. Overall, it makes your revision far easier the closer you get to exams.

If you’re thinking of studying Biology or a related discipline, do start looking at topics beyond the A level syllabus. It doesn’t have to be a big textbook – there are lots of popular science books on a range of issues to explore. And take a look at different areas of Biology and decide whether you want to do a general degree or specialise in something like Zoology or Neuroscience.

Thomas Goodbourn

Reigate College: 2021-2023

Higher education: BSc Biological Sciences, University of Exeter