Queen Mary University of London

My name is Aarushi Vaidya, I’m a Neuroscience and Translational Medicine MSc graduate, in 2021 from Queen Mary University of London. Having previously completed my Neuroscience BSc degree, I wanted to undertake the MSc to gain knowledge of drug discovery and the challenges of developing novel therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases.

The MSc programme was extremely beneficial for me, I understood the urgent need to develop novel therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases from research-active experts in the field. I learnt about “bench to bedside” medicine, wherein existing in vitro and in vivo models of neurological diseases can be translated to clinical trials effectively. The neuro-oncology module was particularly enjoyable for me as we received lectures from leading clinicians and researchers alike. My MSc dissertation project aimed to assess the glial response in adenosine A2A receptor knockout mouse models compared to controls following a model of trauma haemorrhage shock. I specifically enjoyed the dissertation project because I gained independent laboratory skills including immunohistochemistry. Most significantly, I was working with extremely supportive lecturers and supervisors who provided incredible support and advice throughout the master's year.

I am currently a first-year Neuroscience PhD researcher at the University of East Anglia, developing organoid models of hypothalamic neurogenesis to study the roles of fibroblast growth factors. Undertaking the MSc dissertation project encouraged me to pursue a PhD as it equipped me with a strong set of laboratory techniques, as well as a realistic view of a research project. Completing the MSc programme inspired me to undertake a PhD as I thoroughly enjoyed the dissertation project and wanted to continue learning whilst contributing to leading research.

I wish to pursue a research career in neuroscience and want to work as a postdoctoral research associate in neuro-oncology or neuroendocrinology. I am particularly motivated to decipher the cause of paediatric brain tumours and consequently develop novel therapeutic approaches in the future. Alternatively, I also wish to work in drug discovery and target validation to contribute to developing novel therapeutic targets for central nervous system diseases.

Studying at the School of Economics and Finance at Queen Mary University of London has been a transformative experience for me. The Financial Trading Programme (FTP) led by Dr. David Norman and Greg Amoils was a standout module that gave me the practical insight into how global markets operate. Through hands-on training with the Bloomberg Terminal, which is freely accessible at the school, I learned how to read market trends, manage risk and apply trading strategies across intraday, swing, and long-term positions. I've applied these skills in real-world scenarios and generated measurable returns. Beyond the classroom, QUMMIF, the university’s student-run investment fund also deepened my understanding of portfolio management and enhanced my ability to pitch stocks which is an essential skill for investment banking. These experiences, combined with my 1st-place in Morgan Stanley & AmplifyMe’s advanced simulation conducted by School of Economics and Finance, have shaped me into a more confident, competitive candidate for high-finance roles. Queen Mary has truly prepared me for the future I envisioned

"I was most surprised by the opportunity to have access to the laboratory and actually be able to practice all the things we heard in class. My research project investigates the characterisation of 3D-printed leather waste and ecotpu compounds for sustainable fashion, for this I’ve been using the mechanical testing lab and the functional materials lab."

One of the championing qualities of the CIAO programme is how it fosters interaction and discussion, not only with the professors and peers, but also with guest artists from various disciplines. The programme offers such a supportive environment where you’re not only encouraged to think and learn, but also to collaborate. I always leave the classroom with a deeper appreciation and respect for creative workers and the process that shapes the industry into what it is, and new lines of inquiry of what the industry could be. It’s been a while since my graduation, but the discussions I had with Dr Amit and Dr Paula have stuck with me ever since and helped my decision in pursuing a PhD in this field! I would recommend the CIAO programme to aspiring scholars with an interest in the creative and arts industries, as well as creatives looking to gain a deeper insight into their field of work.

I absolutely loved the modules Organisational Consultancy, Cross-Cultural Management, International Human Resource Management and Organisation Therapy. From my first class on Organisational Consultancy, I knew that I wanted to be a consultant.

For nurses considering this course, go for it! It has greatly improved my confidence at the bedside, enabling me to have more in-depth conversations with patients and their families while understanding their journey through recovery. As a nurse working in critical care and A&E, it has also helped me develop my practice, particularly in managing complex polytrauma patients.

Coming from an engineering background, I was amazed at how
seamlessly I transitioned into the Marketing and Digital Communications
MSc programme. It offers the perfect blend of analytical and creative
skills, helping me navigate the fast-evolving digital landscape. The hands-
on learning approach and real-life industry insights have truly prepared
me for a dynamic career in marketing. I highly recommend this
programme to anyone seeking a transformative journey and personal
growth beyond expectations.

"There's a great energy at Queen Mary - it's so diverse but we're all here to learn and accept each other"

When I saw how supportive Queen Mary’s postgraduate offering was, I knew I wanted to come here. You’re really empowered to push yourself, which is so important as a woman in STEM. The aerospace lab in the Engineering Building is a very special place. Not only is it where I’ve conducted many experiments, like designing a type of blade that no one’s designed before, but it’s also a reminder of what you’re capable of when you have the right support.

I was attracted to the curriculum which offered a great balance of topics to explore. Professors were well versed in their fields, not just academically but also at work experience level, so there was a good mix of experiences that was passed to me and my classmates. The most precious thing from my experience was the interactive and engaging debates with my professors and classmates, not just from the material read in classes but from the experiences shared by each of them.

My degrees have definitely helped me in my career. I am able to confidently interact with clients using technical jargon and I am then able to relay these conversations and information to my technical team. My master’s degree has also helped with the more business side of my role.

I studied Global Health and Policy because I believe solving global issues starts with effective policy that can be broken down into actionable solutions. Doing this course at Queen Mary has greatly improved my research skills, which I now use extensively in my role as a Development Manager for an NGO focused on supporting teachers to better serve disadvantaged children.

Studying Mechanical Engineering at Queen Mary helped me build the skills that really shaped my career: problem-solving, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate clearly in high-pressure environments. It also gave me the confidence to walk into rooms where I was often the youngest, and sometimes the only woman, and still hold my own.

You get loads of hands-on experience where you apply what you’ve learned in a practical situation, and you get a lot of control over what you study – it’s really up to each person’s preference.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time studying Genomic Medicine at Queen Mary University of London. It was an exciting and new area for me, and I appreciated the balance of independent learning and the excellent support from the staff. I’ll be starting a medical writing job in January. I’m grateful for the knowledge and skills I’ve gained during this journey.

I was drawn to the University’s ambition around net zero and sustainability. You’ll often see people cleaning up the canal around campus and I really appreciate how Queen Mary takes these things seriously even on a small level. I’m part of a community that puts theory into practice in a holistic and ambitious way. It’s a place where everyone genuinely cares.

What surprised me was the addition of the Econometrics modules to the programme which I also found very enjoyable. My favourite module would definitely be Dr Androniki Triantafylli’s Accounting class, simply for her amazing teaching method. All of the support available at Queen Mary helps you decide what you want to do moving forward, in addition to the great technical skills I acquired from my MSc programme.

"I was impressed by the vibrant and diverse community on campus, with people from all over the world sharing their unique perspectives.

While the programme was intensive and challenging, the professors and tutors were supportive and knowledgeable, providing us with the necessary resources to succeed.”

Studying an MSc in Marketing at Queen Mary helped build a foundation of marketing and business management which has been helpful within the more strategic aspects of my job. More broadly, the course has also been useful when coaching others on the functional aspects of marketing.

Coming from a fine art background, I wanted a Master's
programme that would give me the practical skills required
to work in cultural management, so this course seemed a
perfect blend of business and creativity. I have found that
it has really broadened my understanding of Marketing,
particularly in relation to building accessibility, and I really
enjoyed learning about the creative industries from a
theoretical standpoint after my undergraduate
experiences of the practical aspect.

My favourite part of this course was the practical knowledge I gained from the professors and dermatologists. It’s been incredibly useful for my daily clinical practice. Since starting the course, I’ve become the go-to person at my surgery, which feels quite rewarding. I highly recommend joining this programme because you’ll learn practical tips that you wouldn’t find elsewhere.

The International Marketing and Consumer Psychology programme offers an
outstanding opportunity for future consultants who are eager to develop
extensive knowledge in understanding consumer behaviour. The program’s
consultancy dissertation provides a practical edge by allowing students to
engage directly with businesses, to tackle real-world marketing challenges.
As a graduate of QMUL, I really enjoyed engaging with current students to
host one of these projects.

Studying MSc Digital Marketing at Queen Mary has been an incredible experience both academically and personally. The course blends marketing theory with real-world tools like AI, performance marketing, and brand storytelling, giving me industry-ready skills.

I aspire to join the NHS as a psychological practitioner, and this course has been instrumental in preparing me for that role. We've learned a lot about case studies and the diversity of situations we'll encounter in the workplace. That's made me ready to tackle any complicated situation I'll face in the course of my career.