Emma Steer

Why did you choose the University of Leeds?

The University staff were always friendly and supportive during the application process, and were quick to respond to any questions or issues I had during that stressful period!

I liked the content covered in the course, and I liked how accessible the campus was for my wheelchair, and how accepting staff and students were of my wheelchair.

I also thought that the union looked excellent, with a wide choice of activities and societies to participate in.

Why did you choose this particular degree?

I've always wanted to do something related to health care, and nutrition caught my eye because I liked the idea of using food to prevent and treat illnesses, as many people have access to it.

I was interested in the course content, and thought it would challenge me enough to keep me occupied without overwhelming me.

It also has a wide range of jobs that can be done afterwards, including food labelling and hygiene, food product development, nutritionist, dietician, teacher, scientific journalist, and academic researcher.

What do you like most about your course?

I like the wide range of tasks we are asked to do. We cover both individual and team work, and skills including academic reading and writing, lab work, and statistics.

What skills have you gained from your course so far?

I'm a more confident writer and statistician, and my self-confidence has been boosted throughout the course, helping me to realise that there is more to me than the wheelchair.

Can you describe what student life at Leeds is like for you, perhaps a typical day?

I usually get up at around 7am, have a breakfast of cereal or toast, check emails, and then set out for lectures or for my own work by 9am.

I usually work around lectures, having my lunch and writing notes up between lectures.

After tea, I return to my flat where I finish any remaining tasks, before spending some time with friends, flatmates, or family.

What were you most worried about before arriving at University?

I was worried that the course would be too difficult, and ultimately that I'd fail and let people down. 

What do you like most about being a student so far/what has been your best experience?

I was the secretary of a society during my second year of study, and I loved it. I got to meet new people, develop new skills, and put a valuable addition on my CV.

I also felt very proud when I helped to organise an event involving speakers from all over the country, where we over-filled the room we had booked because we had massively under-estimated the popularity of the society.

Is there is anything which particularly surprised you about being a student?

I was surprised by how easily I took to the new style of learning, which is more independent and self-motivated than in school. I thought I'd struggle with it, but actually, I prefer it.

What do you plan to do at the end of your course?

I'm applying for PhDs! If this doesn't work out, I'd probably be looking at scientific journalism as a career, as this is what I have the most experience in.

What do you do outside of studying?

I love music, so I go along to a lot of the gigs put on at the Students' Union. I also write for LUUSci and another magazine linked to a charity called AYME. I also like arts and crafts.

Are there any other comments you would like to make about being a student at the University of Leeds?

It's hard work, but it's such good fun too.