Anshul Vasisht

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I chose the University of Westminster because the course I wanted to study was accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), which was essential to me for career progression and professional recognition. Another major reason was the availability of the specialisation I was interested in; cancer biology. At the time of my application, the University of Westminster was one of the few universities offering this specialisation, which immediately attracted me. I also explored the profiles of lecturers and professors and was impressed by the quality and relevance of the research, especially in areas closely aligned with my interests. The university’s strong academic reputation and research opportunities made it an ideal place for me to pursue my studies. I believed that being part of such a dynamic and research-focused environment would not only enhance my academic knowledge but also help me build a solid foundation for my future career.

How has your experience been studying in London?

Studying in London has been a fantastic experience, both for career growth and personal exploration. The city offers a vibrant academic atmosphere with endless opportunities to learn and network. I attended several conferences and science exhibitions, such as the Festival of Genomics & Biodata, The London Biotechnology Show 2024, and the Hello Brain exhibition at the Francis Crick Institute,  which allowed me to connect with students and professionals in biomedical research. These events helped me gain insights into cutting-edge developments and inspired me to stay actively involved in the scientific community. London’s rich history and iconic landmarks made it an exciting place to explore during my free time. From museums to cultural festivals, there was always something happening. The city's diversity and inclusive environment made it easy to find a sense of belonging, with communities from all over the world, making it feel like a home away from home for any international student.

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

My course, Biomedical Science MSc with a specialisation in Cancer Biology, has been both challenging and rewarding. I particularly enjoyed the modules focused on advanced cancer biology and molecular and cellular therapeutics, as they deepened my understanding of cancer development and treatment strategies. The hands-on laboratory sessions were a highlight, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world experiments. I appreciate that we were given a wide array of topics for our final semester research project, allowing us to explore areas of personal interest. We also had the option to undertake an extended research project, which was a great way to enhance our research experience and skills. The support from experienced lecturers made the entire learning process engaging and insightful.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

The academic and lecturer support throughout my studies was excellent. Each student was assigned a personal tutor who acted as a mentor, helping us track our academic progress and offering guidance on both academic and career-related matters. For each module, we had around 10–15 lecturers covering different topics, which added diversity to our learning experience and allowed us to gain insights from various experts. Apart from clearing doubts in class, we were encouraged to reach out to lecturers via email, Microsoft Teams, or by scheduling meetings if there was anything we wanted to discuss or clarify. Lectures started from the basics and gradually advanced to the current research scenario, which played a key role in building strong research enthusiasm for me.

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

There are several stand-out facilities associated with my course that greatly enhanced the learning experience. The cutting-edge laboratories were a significant highlight, fully equipped with advanced tools essential for contemporary biomedical research. We had access to tissue culture labs and HTA-certified molecular biology labs, along with specialised instruments such as PCR machine, flow cytometer, fluorescence microscope, confocal microscope, inverted microscope, HPLC, UPLC, and IR spectrometers. These resources enabled us to perform practical experiments and develop strong hands-on skills. Additionally, the university provided licensed access to software like SPSS and GraphPad Prism and comprehensive scientific databases and journals, all of which supported our academic and research development.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course 

Outside of academics, I completed a 10-month research internship in the "Gene Editors of the Future" program, where I received advanced training in CRISPR/Cas9 human genome engineering. During this period, I also took part in organising significant events, including a mayoral gathering and a Member of Parliament’s event. I authored an abstract based on our research findings, which was accepted for presentation at the British Conference of Undergraduate Research 2024 held at LSE. Additionally, I participated in the Next Level 2024 Programme, where I successfully pitched a business idea and was awarded £100. I actively engaged in various seminars, webinars, and workshops to deepen my understanding of cancer and biomedical sciences. I was also a proud member of the Biomedical Science Society at the University of Westminster and the Royal Society of Biology,  UK, which allowed me to stay connected with the broader scientific community.

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

I would highly recommend studying at Westminster for its strong academic support, excellent research facilities, and diverse learning environment. Take full advantage of the opportunities to attend events, network with professionals, and get involved in extracurricular activities. It’s a place where you can grow both academically and personally.

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

The best aspect of being a University of Westminster student is the supportive and inclusive environment. With access to top-tier facilities, inspiring lecturers, and a very  diverse student community, you’re constantly exposed to new ideas, cultures, and opportunities that truly enrich the university experience.

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

The most surprising aspect of my Westminster experience was the incredible amount of support and opportunities available outside the classroom. From research internships to entrepreneurship programmes and networking opportunities, I didn’t expect to be so involved in real-world experiences so early in my academic journey. It really broadened my perspective.