Madeleine Fyers

Starting the Plant Science degree at Edge Hill is the best thing to ever happen to me. I have always had a great love for biology and nature.  I was originally going to study English Literature, but I realised I wouldn’t be happy unless I was studying biology. This gave me the push I needed to look for Plant Science degrees.

The belief Edge Hill has in their students is one of the things that makes Edge Hill very special. Coming from a non-STEM background, I did not have a Biology A Level, and many other universities had already told me that I wouldn’t have what it takes to study plant biology. When I came to the open day at Edge Hill I met the Professor of Botany. After speaking to him, he could see how passionate I was and gave me the encouragement I needed. His belief in me is what cemented my choice to go to Edge Hill, and throughout my entire degree all of the staff in the Biology department have continued to believe in me.

There are three key skills that this degree helps you with.

1. Self-belief. If you don’t believe you can do it, no one else will
2. Ambition. You have to set high goals for yourself and have the belief that you can get there
3. Determination. Once you have your goal, you have to work hard to make sure you achieve it.

The amazing trips we have gone on has to be the most memorable part of the degree for me. I’ve been lucky enough to go to places like Cyprus and Tenerife. The plants in these places are so incredible and different they almost look alien. It was also when I found my best friends on the course, and it’s a trip we’ll all remember for the rest of our lives.

The ability to balance lab work and field work is my favourite thing about the degree. I love being outside in the warmer months and being able to see all the plants and insects, but it’s also nice to stay inside in the warm labs when the weather turns again. Working this way also makes you appreciate the seasons more. Seeing the plants come back in the spring always sparks a great deal of excitement among the plant scientists in the department.

I love the community. Within the department, everyone is so friendly that it creates such a welcoming atmosphere. That paired with the beauty of the campus just makes Edge Hill the best place to be.

I hope to continue at Edge Hill for a Master of Research. After that, I’d like to move onto a PhD in plant genetics.

Appreciate every moment. This would be my key piece of advice. University goes so quick, but it’ll be the best three years of your life.

Also, always pack an extra layer when going on field work. We’ve all been caught out at least once. I’d also say try not to get bogged down with the effects of climate change. Small changes are the way we make a difference.

The careers corner has always been an amazing resource for checking CVs and job applications. The catalyst has been so useful, whether that be with the amazing advice from the helpdesk, or just by being open 24 hours so I can get my assignments done in peace. The biology department as a whole has been invaluable through giving opportunities, assisting in my studies, and listening to me whenever I had a problem I thought I couldn’t work through.