School of Chemistry

Lydia Handford

MChem Chemistry

Lydia describes her experiences of student life here at Leeds and how she is finding the MChem Chemistry course:

How would you describe student life here at Leeds?
I think that it is really good, with chemistry you are always kept busy with time in the labs and lectures, which I prefer, as there is more contact time. I think that the Union is fantastic. I am really impressed with the Union, the nicest one I have seen, it’s all new.

Why did you choose to come to Leeds?
I picked Leeds because it had such a good School of Chemistry, with a good reputation.

Why did you decide on Chemistry?
Everyone always says, ‘what are you going to do? Are you going to be a chemist?’ but I think that they don’t realise you can do so much, with Chemistry you can go into research, become a teacher, go into industry or finance, there is just so much choice. It is a subject which is so relevant today.

How would you describe your lecturers/ tutors/ supervisors?
I think that it is nice that we have such a mix of how we are taught. In the lab, it’s great having demonstrators and you can ask questions. Tutorials are great for one on one time and lectures are nice for covering the groundwork.

Are you doing any social activities or sports?
Yes I am doing chemistry netball. So, you can compete with the other departments, like Psychology or the Medics. I am also on the residence committee of the hall where I live, so organising events and environmental initiatives.

How are you finding it living in halls?
They are really nice. They are just outside of Headingley which means that it is a fifteen minute walk into campus. It’s a nice distance and nice walking in.

Do you have a career in mind?
I am thinking of doing a PhD afterwards and I am interested in the environment so maybe something with renewable energies.

What would you say to other students thinking of coming to Leeds University?
I think that it's a really good choice because it has a nice balance of social aspects and studying; Leeds has a lot to offer everyone.