Ross Williams

Why Swansea:
I chose Swansea because it is the closest university to home. Additionally, I had previously attended an open day and a school trip to the university, which gave me a comprehensive view of the campus and its facilities.

What are your top 3 favourite things about Swansea (the city/area)?
I love the parks around the city, particularly Singleton and Cwmdonkin. The beaches, especially Three Cliffs Bay, are stunning. Also, the city’s walkability and the abundance of places within walking distance make it very convenient and enjoyable to live in.

Why did you choose to study your degree at Swansea?
My school organised a trip to Swansea University where we participated in a lab practical. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and realised I wanted to pursue that kind of work in my studies.

What is your favourite thing about your course?
I am passionate about the practical aspects of my course, including the multiple lab practical’s, fieldwork, and PC labs. Learning and developing new skills through hands-on experiences and applying them creatively has always been exciting for me.

Would you recommend Swansea University to other students?
Absolutely. Swansea University offers an excellent combination of supportive courses and a welcoming community. The university makes you feel valued as an individual, fostering both personal and academic growth.

Are you/have you been part of a society?
Yes, I am part of the Conservation and Ecological Society. I served as the secretary and am transitioning into the treasurer role this year.

Have you undertaken a work placement as part of your course (Year in Industry)?
Yes, I chose a course that included a Year in Industry. During this time, I worked as a researcher with the Advanced Imaging Materials (AIM) group at Swansea University's Bay Campus, using x-ray technology on insects. This experience significantly broadened my knowledge across various fields and helped me build valuable connections across departments. It also highlighted the multidisciplinary links between biology and engineering research, with both sides benefiting from the overlap and shared resources.

Have you lived at home during your studies?
Yes, I lived at home during my foundation year and the first year of my degree. The pandemic began during my foundation year.

Have you worked part-time during your degree?
Yes, I have worked as a Student Ambassador for three years, along with several other part-time jobs. Being a Student Ambassador has been a fantastic experience. It allowed me to represent the university, improve my communication and leadership skills, and interact with prospective students. This role also gave me a deeper appreciation of the university community and enhanced my professional development.

Have you accessed student support at Swansea University?
Yes, I used student support services to set up my Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) in my second year and sought support from my tutors. Both were incredibly helpful.

Have you graduated or are you a current student?
I have just completed my final undergraduate exams. I plan to pursue a master's in research, which will help me gain the necessary experience for a career in biotechnology research.