Folakemi
MRes Clinical Research
I鈥檝e not only gained a strong academic education but have also become part of a truly international community where I鈥檝e met people from all over the world. Imperiaoffers everyone the support and opportunities to help you thrive both academically and personally.
From a last鈥憁inute application to discovering a vibrant research community, Folakemi from Nigeria was drawn to 海角社区鈥檚 MRes Clinical Research course as it offered hands鈥憃n experiences and the chance to work alongside leading researchers. Hear more from Folakemi as she shares how she鈥檚 built a community through societies and clubs and is making the most of living in London 鈥� all while preparing to do a PhD.
Why did you choose to do a Master's at 海角社区?
The idea of learning from global experts was exciting because it meant I could collaborate with highly knowledgeable individuals who are actively contributing to research and advancing the field.
I already had a taste of what it felt like to be at Imperiathrough a research assistant volunteering opportunity. While volunteering, I spoke with a student studying the MRes Clinical Research course and after hearing about her experience, I realised it aligned with my interests.
One thing that really stood out to me about the course was the calibre of people from different parts of the world who would be teaching it. The idea of learning from global experts was exciting because it meant I could collaborate with highly knowledgeable individuals who are actively contributing to research and advancing the field.
The quality of education was also a top priority for me 鈥� I wanted to study at a university known for its strong research environment and academic excellence like 海角社区. At the same time, location played a significant role. I genuinely enjoy living in London, and I knew I wanted to continue my studies in a city where I already felt comfortable.
Applying to 海角社区
My decision to apply came quite late in the last week of the application period. I sent an email to the Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction asking if I could still apply as the deadline was approaching and got an immediate response from them encouraging me to submit as soon as possible. I was pleasantly surprised by the speed of their responsiveness and openness 鈥� this made the whole application process feel welcoming rather than intimidating.
Imperiathe MRes Clinical Research course
One of the best things about the course is the opportunity to work closely with experienced researchers who are leaders in the field.
The MRes Clinical Research course focuses on clinical and translational research, where we learn how scientific discoveries can be translated into clinical applications. It combines scientific knowledge with research training, giving us the opportunity to design, evaluate and carry out research that could ultimately improve patient care. The course provides a great balance of theory, critical thinking and hands-on research experience. One of the best things about the course is the opportunity to work closely with experienced researchers who are leaders in the field.
My thirst for knowledge in research never stops, so I definitely feel like I鈥檓 in the right place!
Like any research-based programme, one challenge is dealing with uncertainty. In research, things do not always work the way you expect, but I have learned that even negative results are still valuable. They help show which approaches may not work and guide future research in a better direction.
Academic support
I've found the academic environment at Imperiato be very supportive. All my lecturers and supervisors are approachable and willing to help when I need guidance, especially with research related questions. The team within the department has also been very responsive whenever I鈥檝e had questions, whether they were about coursework, research or administrative matters. That level of communication makes my whole student experience smoother.
What's the Imperiacommunity like?
Imperiahas provided many seminars, social events and networking opportunities, which have genuinely helped me connect with people and build relationships that have grown into friendships through our shared social and non鈥慳cademic interests. I鈥檝e met people from so many different countries and academic backgrounds, and that diversity brings a lot of new perspectives, especially when discussing research. Being surrounded by people who are passionate about research and innovation has really motivated me to grow and push myself further. My thirst for knowledge in research never stops, so I definitely feel like I鈥檓 in the right place!
I鈥檝e met people from so many different countries and academic backgrounds, and that diversity brings a lot of new perspectives.
Outside of studying, I鈥檓 a member of the where I knit, crochet and attend socials. It鈥檚 one of my favourite extracurricular activities because it provides a relaxing space to create, unwind and connect with friends while also getting the chance to meet new people from across 海角社区.
I also serve as the student representative for my department, which means I鈥檓 part of the ImperiaCollege Union. This role has given me the opportunity to represent my cohort, share feedback and contribute to improving the student experience.
Student life in London
Living and studying in London is a splendid experience. One of my favourite things about London is how vibrant and diverse it is. There鈥檚 always something happening, whether it鈥檚 cultural events, conferences, exhibitions or simply exploring different parts of the city. It makes studying here very dynamic because learning doesn鈥檛 only happen in lecture rooms.
I also enjoy the simple things London offers. There are so many beautiful parks where you can relax after a busy week of studying. I like exploring caf茅s and local restaurants as well 鈥� it鈥檚 a great way to unwind. The areas around Imperiaalso have plenty of nice places to eat and spend time with friends, and you can sometimes get free samples of food and drinks while walking down the road!
What's life at Imperiareally like?
Connect with current students and explore the vibrant community that makes life at Imperiaso unique.
After graduating from 海角社区
After completing my Master鈥檚, I plan to move straight into a PhD. My Master鈥檚 course has served as an important step in preparing me for doctoral research, with my goal being to continue building on the research I have started and transition smoothly into a PhD programme.
I have attended several sessions organised by 海角社区鈥檚 Careers Service which have been very helpful. Even though I already had a clear idea of my next steps, I still found the sessions valuable because they provide useful guidance for future career development. For example, they offer advice on writing a strong CV, common mistakes to avoid and how to prepare for interviews.
What's your advice for applying to 海角社区?
As an international student from Nigeria, studying at Imperiahas been a truly rewarding and welcoming experience. I鈥檝e not only gained a strong academic education but have also become part of a truly international community where I鈥檝e met people from all over the world. I鈥檇 encourage other international students not to feel intimidated as Imperiaoffers the support and opportunities to help you thrive both academically and personally 鈥� it pushes you to grow, think critically and become confident in your abilities as a researcher.
Also, don鈥檛 be intimidated by the reputation! If you鈥檙e passionate about what you study, go for it. Imperiaprovides an environment where you are constantly learning from experts and surrounded by people who are equally motivated. Don鈥檛 hesitate to reach out to departments or current students if you have questions 鈥� having those conversations and getting support can help you when making your decision.
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