"We Did It!" Past Participants
Personal Profile, Charlotte

Attended "Leap into Health 2005"
Previous course
A-Levels (Biology, English Literature, Sociology) at Kingsfield School 6th Form
Current course
BSc (Hons) Radiotherapy at the University of the West of England (UWE).
Why did you decide to apply to attend a Summer School?
Initially, it was just something extra to put in my UCAS personal statement, but also to find out more about the course I was interested in and the layout of a university.
How did your Summer School help you? What did you take from the experience?
I met some really nice people that were all in the same boat as me, who I still see around campus now. It’s nice to see familiar faces when starting a daunting degree! I was given some really helpful information on the course, perhaps the most helpful was the list of books associated with the course which helped me to get a bit of a head start. So when it came to starting the course the terms they used were not so alien to me. The ambassadors who were helping out on the summer school were so nice and I’m in touch with one of them today. Also, I found out a lot about the other courses which is helpful should you see something else you prefer!
Overall the summer school made me more confident and confirmed my choice of university. I had a look around many campuses including Cardiff but none were as welcoming as Glenside – it’s great!!
Did your Summer School meet your expectations?
No, I thought it was going to be boring, like I said initially it was just something to put in my statement, but I found it really helpful and I’m so glad I went. I felt so much more confident to see the reality of university life!!
What was the best aspect of the Summer School?
I liked the little ceremony at the end, we were given certificates to show out achievement and commitment. Having parents there made the whole experience feel special and important. But perhaps the best aspect was all the free food, from what I can remember there was enough to cater a banquet!!
Would you recommend a Summer School to others and why?
Yes, I would definitely recommend a summer school, its was a good experience and made me feel really inspired to carry on my education for another 3 years . . . . and after primary, secondary and 6th form schooling it takes a lot of inspiration!
How did you choose your place of study?
Well the fact I live locally was a big decider but truthfully it appealed to me the most out of anywhere else. It’s a cosy campus and all the staff I met were all friendly and made me feel welcome.
What do you like best about your course?
This may sound a bit geeky but I love the anatomy and physiology side of the course. Learning about the human body is truly fascinating! I won’t lie, the work load is a lot, but it’s not impossible. You don’t get a degree for nothing! I also think it’s important to be able to learn in the actual environment you will be working in. On most of the courses you will have to go on placements which helps you visualize the job . . . . very exciting.
Charlotte