Billy
MSc Pharmaceutical Technology and Medicines Control
- Billy is originally from Zambia
- He received the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship to study his Master's here at Bradford
- He graduated in 2019
Why I chose Bradford
“I chose Bradford because the excellent teaching framework stood out with the blend of theory and laboratory work.
"Bradford offered the exact modules I was looking for in my postgraduate study – the programme is unique as it combines the study of pharmaceutical technology, including pharmaceutical sciences, and medicines control.
"The practical aspect of the course makes it interesting and relevant to the skills I needed to upgrade, which are fundamental to my future career."
The programme is unique as it combines the study of pharmaceutical technology, including pharmaceutical sciences, and medicines control.
Arriving in Bradford
“Arriving at Bradford after a long journey from Zambia, the process was very straightforward.
"Although I arrived late at night, I wasn’t left stranded – I was met at the airport by a university representative, got the keys to my accommodation and settled straight away.
“The registration process was smooth and my chosen accommodation was only five minutes from the university campus, so I could walk to class or the city centre.
"I also worked out the best route to Manchester as I’m a huge United fan and since arriving in the UK I’ve been lucky to watch a few of their home matches!"
Well-equipped labs and supportive teaching
“The Department has large, well-equipped teaching laboratories, with an extensive range of modern, sophisticated instrumentation.
“The lecturers are so experienced in their field - this made the teaching relatable. The course leaders were supportive and helpful, and gave great supervision when approached.”
“The level of student safety in the laboratory was excellent at all times.
“I always felt that our health and safety was put first when we were using laboratory equipment and hazardous materials, and this environment helped us understand the importance of practising safe science."
I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity for hands-on experience in applying a wide variety of new techniques, and being exposed to new technologies which are not currently available in Zambia.
Graduation and academic writing
“I completed my Master's last year. Since graduating, I have returned home to continue my work as a Registration Officer for Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority.
“I have also continued and progressed my work on a number of papers. I was encouraged by some university professors to consider academic writing. Their feedback motivated me to recognise the strengths of my research data."
A proud achievement
“Writing for a publication is different from writing for class, and I was very grateful to receive guidance and contributions from my professors along the way.
"They became my mentors. I kept in touch with them throughout the process; they reviewed my paper as I prepared it for publication, advised me on how to choose a journal for submission, and on how to manage the review process."
“This has been the first time I have completed a paper and tried to make my research visible.
“To see my work published in a prestigious journal is a very proud achievement and I will definitely look at other publishing opportunities.”
I would encourage students to feel confident about their research, develop ideas thoroughly and discuss openly with their professors, and accept feedback about how they can improve their work.
A truly memorable experience
“My time in Bradford was a truly memorable experience, and I highly recommend this challenging and rewarding programme.
“My long-term aspiration is to work for the World Health Organization as an expert. In order to follow this career choice I must complete relevant PhD study.
"To achieve this, I will look at possible PhD programmes, apply for new funding from the Commonwealth and hopefully return to Bradford to continue my studies."
