Jessica Tape

What did you enjoy most about your degree programme?

Being a biosciences student has allowed me to explore so many worlds. One is a world of cells, in which I was able to investigate their contents and explore how slight changes in their functions have a huge impact. Another is a world of animals, both on land and in the sea. From learning the secrets of the deep to understanding the evolution of species on land, this world never failed to amaze me. My final and favourite world is of microbes and diseases, as noticeable from my specialism. I came to the University of Exeter expecting to explore my passion for marine biology or forensic science, and instead found myself captivated by the interactions between microbes, and how they can either save your life or risk it. This is what I have enjoyed most about my degree programme; everything I wanted to learn was right there, and it helped me to discover my true passion.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

Exeter University Swimming Club, Exeter University Biology Society.

What was the highlight of your time at Exeter?

 After a difficult couple of years during the pandemic, my third year pulled through as my favourite and encompasses most of the highlights of my time at Exeter. From being able to see my friends and colleagues again, to being able to interact with the staff face-to-face on a regular basis, this last year was able to make up for the isolation of my second year. The experience that truly made my third year the highlight of my time at Exeter was being Biosciences Subject Chair. In this role I was able to really get involved with department-level issues and help to resolve them. It also meant I was invited to events at the University and was able to make many new friends, such as the college officer and other subject chairs and the student reps for Biosciences.

What will you miss the most about University?

There are many things that I will miss about University. However the main thing would be the campus! After taking full advantage of the facilities in my final year, all I can do is urge other students to appreciate the beauty of our campuses and everything they have to offer.

What advice would you give to current and future students? (If you are an international student what would you like to tell future students from back home who might be thinking about applying to study in Exeter?)

 Take advantage of your time at Exeter and do all of the things that you want to do. There are so many societies and clubs, there are opportunities to take courses outside of your degree programme, and there are lots of student representation roles that you can take on to boost your CV. Get involved and make your experience count.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I am currently in the process of finding a job, and am trying to figure out which career path is for me. I know I still want to continue down the Biosciences route, but that will be especially difficult with my limited laboratory experience. So I am looking at some alternatives and am tempted by science journalism/ communications, or analyst-related roles. I just know that I want to enjoy whatever I do.