Dundonian Daniel Squair tells us about how he found his perfect blend of education.
“Discovering the right course for you at University is not as straightforward a decision for some people as it is for others.
“After finishing school, I had a clutch of qualifications but a lack of direction. As I enjoyed reading, I decided to study English and History; however, a year into the program, I realised it was not for me.
“Unsure what I wanted to do next, I took a job in Costa Coffee, where I worked my way up to supervisor. Whilst I enjoyed this job, I felt a lack of progression and intellectual stimulation, which I filled by reading magazines such as New Scientist. I became intrigued by the advances being made across the many scientific fields, which grew into a desire to join the scientific community myself.”
“Now, I have a First Class Honours degree, and I am about to embark on a PhD with the Medical Research Council. My journey was not straightforward – I took the scenic route and enjoyed the trip!”
“In order to prepare for university, I returned to education through the college system, undertaking an Access to Science course and an Applied Sciences HNC in Perth. Here, I developed a strong interest in molecular biology and organic chemistry, and learned that I had a capability for these subjects which I had not anticipated.
“The Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery degree program at the University of Dundee aligned perfectly with the interests I had developed at college, and I was offered a place on the course in 2014.
“I was worried that I might struggle with university-level science, however the supportive teaching staff and world-class research facilities quickly alleviated any doubts, and I became confident and assured in my abilities.
“Now, I have a First Class Honours degree, and I am about to embark on a PhD with the Medical Research Council.
“My journey was not straightforward – I took the scenic route and enjoyed the trip!”