Masters student — Mary-Anne Oladinni

After completing a biomedical sciences degree, Mary-Anne decided to study the MSc Skin Sciences and Stem Cell Biology at the University of Bradford

What was the application process like?

It was quite seamless - I applied on the university website. I also had to write a personal statement. Lastly, I made sure I added an academic and personal reference to the application.

Why did you choose this postgraduate course and institution?

I chose this university because it is well known for being a diverse institution, with a number of recognised academic scholars. I also expected to get an advanced level of education.

The University of Bradford is a centre for skin science, and they are noted for creating a healthy environment for research projects and opportunities, which I wanted to leverage.

How did you fund your postgraduate study?

I took out a loan with Student Finance England to fund this programme.

What is the course teaching you that your first degree did not?

I studied biomedical science in my first degree, so although they are both science-based courses, they are completely different.

Academically speaking, this course is teaching me the foundational and advanced aspects of skin biology. It has also given me an awareness of the business aspects of skincare companies and how start-ups begin.

A Masters degree is more relaxed in terms of how you navigate your personal study sessions, although there are more course-related sessions to attend.

Tell us a bit about the course.

It involves a range of seminars, workshops and lectures. The lectures are quite intense, with one lecture being three hours long. The workshops can be a mixture of academic speakers or laboratory sessions. Seminars involve healthy discussions with other students and the lecture, in which we would debate pre-read texts. During the course, we have regular one-on-one sessions with our personal academic tutor to discuss our progression and any concerns we may have.

How is the course assessed?

Throughout the course, we have had open-book exams, both online and in a lecture room, plus a portfolio to complete and thesis projects. We also had to deliver several presentations.

How does postgraduate life differ to that of an undergraduate?

Postgraduate life is easy to navigate because you have experienced the university environment before. Therefore, you know how to manage your time and balance extra-curricular activities with maintaining a social life.

What do you wish you'd known before embarking on postgraduate study?

That there would be a lot of self-learning and studying. Although it takes place in a more relaxed environment, you still have to push yourself to study and research and make sure you're on top of all your deadlines.

What are your plans for after graduation, and how does this course fit in with your career ambitions?

I plan to pursue a career in skin science or skin genetics, specifically focusing on research and development (R&D). I may also consider furthering my education, as I love to learn and expand my knowledge.

What tips would you give to others choosing to study a Masters degree?

• Thoroughly research the university you plan on going to, ensuring it lines up with your expectations in terms of academic performance, social environment and location.
• Be determined to see the course through and be intentional with your studies, as it's easy to get side-tracked.
• Enjoy your time at university and prepare for the ups and downs. Be sure to ask for help if you're struggling - not only seeking support from friends and room mates, but also from your personal tutors.

Find out more

• Explore whether a Masters degree would be right for you.
• Discover what you can do with a biomedical sciences degree.
• Consider the MSc Skin Sciences and Stem Cell Biology at Bradford.