Our STEM Experiences

Many i-Learner teachers studied STEM subjects at university. We interviewed them to get some tips on how they prepared for their studies and what they learned. Read their responses to learn more about the different entry requirements, preparation and skills they gained from their STEM studies.

What subject did you study at university and what were the entry requirements?

Mr Michael: Risk Management Science at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. A score of 26 in the best 5 DSE subjects, with compulsory maths extended modules.

Ms Willow: Natural Sciences, with a focus on the biological sciences at the University of Cambridge. A grades in 3 science subjects at A Level; I did biology, chemistry and maths.

Ms Tina: Integrated Social and Cognitive Psychology at Jacobs University Bremen in Germany. High school GPA, SAT scores, and an application essay.

How did you prepare for your application?

Mr MacDonald: Chemical Engineering at The University of Manchester. AAB at A Level.

Ms Joyce: Biomedical Sciences at University College London. Three A grades at A Level including biology and chemistry.

Mr Michael: I was prepared to talk about and analyse topics related to social, economic and financial issues.

Mr MacDonald: The best preparation was making sure that I was confident to talk about the topics I mentioned in my admission essay.

Ms Tina: I prepared with my SAT scores, 5 AP subjects in biology, physics, calculus, psychology, and microeconomics. I also joined some social activities at NGOs and start-up companies. Ms Willow: I read some popular science books that were in line with my interests, and for about a year before the interview, I regularly read New Scientist magazine. I also did work experience in different scientific settings, such as a hospital lab.

Ms Joyce: I kept up to date by reading scientific journals and learning about the latest research developments at UCL. I also joined a discussion group at my sixth-form college to make sure I was able to discuss my ideas from many perspectives.

What advice would you give to someone applying to these courses?

Mr Michael: Risk Management Science blends mathematics, statistics, finance and programming together. It is definitely a rewarding subject, especially if you enjoy working with numbers. Mr MacDonald: Learn what you can about the subject before applying. You should show enthusiasm when discussing the parts you find interesting.

Ms Willow: Look at the course modules in detail to make sure they match with your interests, and be able to speak passionately about those interests. Ms Joyce: Explore the options offered in the course and modules and decide what appeals to you. Finally, do your research early on and look at the entry requirements long before you apply as it may affect the A Levels you select.

Ms Tina: Prepare well for both the academic and social activity applications.

What did you learn during your course?

What skills did you learn?

Mr Michael: The majority of graduates become analysts in finance and the banking industry.

Ms Willow: Science subjects are great for any career as they teach a range of useful skills such as prediction and planning, writing clearly, and detailed analysis.

Ms Tina: There are many different career paths depending on your interests. It’s important to explore different jobs and find what you like. Mr MacDonald: People I studied with went on to work in food processing and production, the oil and gas industry and pharmaceuticals. Others went into automotive engineering and banking industries.

Ms Joyce: Graduates can go into many different areas like the healthcare industry, research and scientific journalism. Some even go on to work in management, finance or computer science.

Mr Michael: We were given a lot of opportunities to develop our programming skills to deal with large amounts of information and complicated models.

Ms Tina:Psychology is quite a challenging subject, but it teaches you to think independently and to use the theory and skills in the real world. Mr MacDonald: The most important thing I learnt at university was the ability to think like an engineer. That is the ability to analyse a problem and find a solution which fits the parameters. I find this skill very useful in many areas of life.

Ms Willow: I developed analytical and writing skills by taking a module in History and Philosophy of Medicine. Rather than doing a practical project in my final year, I completed a thesis on curiosity culture in Renaissance Europe. This led me to a master’s in Creative Writing, which set me on the path to developing publications for i-Learner.

Ms Joyce: During my studies, I learnt a range of skills, such as laboratory research and critical thinking. In my final year, I did a research project for which I had to design and conduct an experiment. After completing this, I also had to submit and present a dissertation, which improved my written communication, presentation and analytical skills.

Our Overseas Education Services provides student support throughout the entire process of applications to schools abroad.

Find more information in our latest webinars. Our guest speakers provide insight into preparation for studying abroad and choosing the right schools.