Student profile
Louisa Belgrave, BSc (Hons) Veterinary Biosciences

Louisa Belgrave

"There are great facilities, the staff are knowledgeable and the course has loads of optional modules, so you can usually tailor your degree to what you want to achieve."

Course

Veterinary Biosciences BSc (Hons)

Placement company

University of Saskatchewan's Western College of Veterinary Medicine, Canada

Why I chose Surrey

I've always wanted to work in science and with animals. All through school I was only ever told about veterinary medicine, so just assumed I'd do that, but I knew it wasn't right for me. Veterinary biosciences is the perfect mix of science and veterinary aspects so I was thrilled when I found the BSc (Hons) Veterinary Biosciences course at Surrey.

I chose Surrey because it has a wonderful reputation and offered so many things that were important to me. I loved the idea of being on a campus and being close to everything while at university (teaching buildings, places to eat, halls) and I was already accustomed to Guildford as both of my parents grew up there. The offer of an industry placement sealed the deal for me - in this era it is so difficult to get a job, especially in the sciences, without sufficient experience. 

My course

On my course, we work with lots of other disciplines which allows us to have such a broad area of study, as well as veterinary specific modules. There are loads of optional modules so you can usually tailor the degree to what you want to achieve.

The University has great facilities and the staff are knowledgeable - they are always popping up in research papers and textbooks!

My placement

I did a Professional Training placement at the University of Saskatchewan's Western College of Veterinary Medicine, Canada. The placement was advertised by the University. I applied via the University and had a Skype interview with my supervisor and with a tutor from the University of Surrey with me. I decided to do my placement abroad because it was something I would never, ever have done. The opportunity was too good to miss and I knew I would gain so much.

"I got to work with some of the world's top vets, and learnt so much about the research industry, working in a different country, and myself!"

I was the primary research assistant for a novel research project. It was amazing to be part of something completely new. I got to work with some of the world's top vets, and learnt so much about the research industry, working in a different country, and myself! 

I'd definitely recommend doing a placement. I wasn't sure about it initially, as it extends your course by a year, but it was the best experience of my life and I've gained so much for my CV and myself. I learnt about how different countries do things, travelled Canada and gained life skills. Doing a placement abroad is the best thing you'll ever do!

My career and development

I've become a much more confident person since attending university. I've grown as a student, and as a person, and have a much clearer idea of where I want to go in life.

My advice

It all goes so quickly - enjoy every second of university and take every opportunity given to you (there'll be lots!).

Find out more about our veterinary biosciences course