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Kate Spear chose the University of Reading for her undergraduate degree because she liked the size of the Department of Chemistry. She also liked the University's green campus – she's a fan of parkland rather than cityscapes.
“The Department has a really nice feel to it. I immediately got the sense that I could be part of the community, but, more importantly, that I could contribute to it.”
Like all of our undergraduate students, Kate had an academic tutor – an academic who she could speak to if she had an issue. But she says she felt supported in other ways as well.
“There are lots of supportive staff in the Department who will help with placement applications, look over your CV or help in many other ways to make your experience at Reading better.”
Kate volunteered for Open Days, talking to prospective students and their parents, and answering questions about what it's like to study at Reading.
“Choosing a university is a huge decision for students. For most, it is their first time leaving home. If I can help people make the decision that's right for them, then I wanted to be able to do that.”
As well as Open Days, Kate volunteered for Chemistry for All. This Royal Society of Chemistry project looked at how a series of chemistry activities in schools affects participation in undergraduate chemistry study. Kate helped run chemistry clubs in local schools as part of the project.
“I enjoy doing outreach. I went to school in an area of Devon where there was no local university, so we weren't exposed to these types of programmes. I think it's important to offer these opportunities to children when they're available.”
