Advice on Course and University Research

Read on for advice from your RO Ambassador, Jessica.

• Does your chosen course match my interests and career goals? This could be related to a subject you enjoy at sixth form/college, or something in your own time.
• What are the course’s entry requirements, can I meet them? What support do I need to achieve them?
• Are there opportunities for practical experience or a placement year in industry?
• What career paths do graduates typically take? How competitive are these careers to get into? Are they confined to specific locations, or could I do the specific career anywhere in the country?

University-Related Questions

• What is the university’s reputation for my chosen subject?
• What support services are available? This includes academic, disability, career support
• What are the teaching methods, i.e.: lecture based, problem solving, etc. and class sizes?
• What are the university’s facilities like, i.e.: Libraries, clinics, accommodation, sports

Lifestyle & Practical Considerations

• Is the university in a location I’d enjoy living in for the next 3 or more years?
• What is the cost of living in that area?
• What student societies and extracurricular activities are available?
• What grants/bursaries can the university offer me?

I understand there is a lot to think about – take your time and slowly work through these.

It is okay if you still don’t know what to do, but it is a good to have an idea of what area you would like to pursue, to ensure you do a course that is right for you!

These websites may aid you in answering some of these questions:

• Choosing a course – how to choose the right degree.
• What course should I do?
• I want to go to university, but I don’t know what course to study.

Research-Intensive University (RIU): the benefits

There are many benefits to studying at a RIU, which prioritises world-leading research alongside teaching activities. These include:

1. Up to date teaching and learning – ensuring you have firsthand access to cutting-edge knowledge and discoveries integrated in your teaching.
2. Hands-On Research Experience – usually more opportunities to engage in research projects, aiding your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
3. Enhanced Career Prospects – employers value graduate with strong analytical, critical thinking skills and soft skills, such as teamwork and communication, not just academics! There are also usually more opportunities for postgraduate study and academic careers.
4. Global networking/collaboration opportunities – more opportunities for study abroad programmes and working alongside world-renowned academics and industry.

Exploring the Journey of Dentistry

Studying dental surgery has been an unforgettable experience, filled with both challenges and successes. My transition to dental school was smoother than that of many undergraduates, thanks to my BSc in Biological Sciences, which prepared me for the workload and new environment. I’ve been fortunate to meet many supportive people, including clinicians, lecturers, and student support staff who genuinely want the best for me. The first two years focused on lectures covering topics like head and neck anatomy, pharmacology, and dental materials. My favourite pre-clinical experience was the Key Clinical Skills course, where I learned to use dental tools and select the right materials for fillings. This year, I’ve begun clinical attachments, performing patient assessments, fillings, extractions, denture impressions, fluoride applications, oral hygiene instruction, suture removal, and local anaesthetic injections. One challenge has been managing patient treatment progress, which can feel overwhelming. To stay organised, I’m creating flow diagrams for each patient case and will review my denture patients with a clinician to improve planning and reduce stress. This highlights the importance of seeking support from staff when needed.

I also plan to share more details about my BDS Dental Surgery experience in an upcoming blog post—stay tuned!

Understanding Course Differences

Course structures vary depending on the subject. Healthcare degrees like nursing, medicine, and veterinary medicine include clinical attachments, while science courses focus on lab work and practical experience. Some, like archaeology, offer unique opportunities such as field trips—my university’s archaeology students even participated in a summer dig. Assessment methods also differ—some courses rely entirely on coursework, while others combine exams, practicals, and assignments. Schedules vary too; some students attend classes just 2–3 days a week, whereas intensive courses like mine require 4–5 days, limiting time for extracurricular activities. Entry requirements and career pathways also differ—fields like nursing and law lead to specific professions, while degrees in subjects like maths or history offer a broader range of opportunities. Regardless of the degree you choose, you’ll gain valuable transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and analytical thinking—qualities that are highly valued by employers.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions about anything or would like to talk about where you are at right now with your studies and future planning

Many thanks, Jessica 😊