Leah Fogarty (2021, Biomedical Sciences, MS Neuroscience)

Leah is in her third year studying Biomedical Sciences at Univ. Last year, she represented Univ on University Challenge.

Why did you choose to apply to Univ for Biomedical Sciences?
I chose Univ because it is such a pretty college and I loved how old it was! Moreover, I heard the neuroscience tutors are excellent and that’s the path I want to take.

How do you think you have changed since walking through Univ’s doors for the first time?
I think I have grown and matured a lot since coming to Univ. Learning to fully take care of myself whilst doing a full-time degree definitely has its challenges at first but I have really learnt the importance of taking time for myself! Importantly, I definitely care less about the opinions of others and choose to do things I truly enjoy rather than what I “should” enjoy.

What’s your favourite part of Univ?
Definitely the people! Univ has such a warm community spirit and I have met some of my favourite people here! I love how friendly and welcoming everyone is.

Has anything surprised you about Oxford/Univ/your course?
The opportunity to take part in real research in scientific fields has surprised me. Last term I completed a project involving the use of CRISPR to reverse a mutation causing blindness. It was so cool to be working in a real lab using state-of-the-art equipment to tackle real issues in the biomedical industry!

Do you have any advice for prospective students?
I would tell prospective students to truly embrace the breadth of the course to find what area they enjoy. There are so many opportunities to specialise in this course and it’s really important to try out a range of modules so you ensure you pick the right topics for you. This will ensure you can find what you are truly passionate about as it will most likely change. I came to Oxford determined to work on Alzheimer’s disease but after picking a wider range of modules in my second year I now prefer sleep and would prefer to go into sleep research!

What do you do outside your studies?
I go to the gym a few times a week as well as play netball and do trampolining. I also write for the Oxford Scientist magazine and am one of the Opinions columnists. I also love to explore Oxford with my friends or relax with a pub quiz!

Describe Univ in three words.
Friendly. Inviting. Serene.

Published: 18 September 2023