Annie's Story

‍What did you enjoy most about your studentship?

Developing an understanding of common laboratory techniques and methods, that will greatly aid me in my third year dissertation.

How has your GenRes experience impacted you and has it given you a different perspective on anything in particular?  

The GenRes experience has greatly impacted my career and my confidence. I originally applied for this studentship to gain experience in a laboratory setting to develop the skills needed for my third year dissertation. I wasn’t expecting to have so many other doors opened for me. Including the knowledge I’ve gained in the lab, I’ve also begun to build a network with the wonderful students and staff members I have met along the way. I’ve gained an understanding of all the opportunities and paths available to me, and I’m so inspired and excited to carry on my journey through education.

The studentship gave me many changes in perspective in the scientific sense, but also on a personal level. For the past 2-3 years I’ve spent a large majority of my time studying and gaining experience in healthcare on a voluntary basis while also having to work to pay rent. In some instances studying and working 7 days a week and even night shifts to make my dreams a reality. It’s been a long difficult journey that I am grateful for, but the GenRes studentship came as a wonderful surprise when I was accepted and definitely felt like my lucky break.

Thanks to the monetary aspect of this studentship I am now in a financial situation where I do not need to work full time around my studies through my third year of uni. I have the work experience I need for my future plans. I was even able to buy a laptop and have a good chance of achieving higher grades because of it. All while doing an internship in an area I love.

"GenRes has changed my perspective on what I can accomplish and what is possible. Thank you!!"

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Do you have any words for our GenRes funders?

Hi there, you don’t know me personally, and I don’t know you. And that’s kinda amazing. Your belief in what’s possible, in this project, your generosity and support in young scientists who are underrepresented has changed so many things in my career and personal life I cannot thank you enough. Because of your donation, I don’t just have experience in a lab, I’m able to pay my rent. I was able to buy a laptop I need for third year, and thanks to the pay I have received I won’t need to work full time hours around studying through my last year of my degree.

Because of you I have all the work experience I need for the future, and can now solely focus on my studies. The fact you don’t know me and have done all that? That makes you a pretty amazing human being. THANK YOU.

Annie completed her summer placement in 2024 with Matt Hindle in Biomedical Science at Leeds Beckett University.

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