How the International Foundation Year helped me discover confidence in science
Hajin from Liverpool John Moores University
To be honest, I was quite concerned about the fact that I had no background in science when I first joined the International Study Centre. I was excited to pursue an MPharm degree at Liverpool John Moores University, but I wasn't sure I could keep up with the scientific coursework. Looking back, I can see how important the Liverpool John Moores University International Study Centre's International Foundation Year was to my growth in knowledge and confidence.
Building confidence
One of the things that really helped me was the support from the tutors. They were very patient and always encouraged us to ask questions, even the simplest ones. Nothing ever seemed like a "silly question" and because the classes were small, I felt confident in asking for help.
The course also never felt like just memorising information. The activities and feedback helped me think more deeply about what I was learning. We also used worksheets, mock exams and quizzes on a regular basis. With time, I began to realise that, with the correct foundation, I could truly understand biology and other scientific subjects.
Learning in real university labs
My favourite part of the programme was doing experiments in the LJMU labs and learning how to write lab reports. It was exciting to carry out real experiments in the same facilities used by university students, and it helped me become familiar with the lab environment before starting my degree in LJMU. I also enjoyed learning how to structure and write lab reports properly, receiving feedback and improving my writing skills. Since life science degrees involve lab work and report writing, having that hands-on experience during the International Foundation Year was both enjoyable and very useful.
Looking back, I enjoyed preparing presentations in several classes, such as English, study skills and biology. For example, I presented on genetic diseases and also took part in a group presentation about the immune system. These tasks helped me develop my research, presentation and teamwork skills, as well as practise how to combine information from different sources and create effective presentation slides.
How the tutors prepared me for my MPharm degree
The patient and encouraging tutors at the International Study Centre helped me gain confidence in science. They assisted us in developing critical study skills necessary for university-level learning, such as writing reports, efficiently managing time, and comprehending scientific data, in addition to teaching subject matter. These abilities have been very helpful for my current coursework.
I could also feel the tutors’ enthusiasm for teaching and supporting students, which helped me relax and enjoy learning. Their encouragement gave me confidence and helped me develop a “I can do it” mindset.
The progress coaches were also very supportive – they regularly checked in on my progress, offered advice on study methods, and encouraged me whenever I felt uncertain, which really helped me stay motivated and confident.
What I’m most proud of
When I first started, I didn’t have any science background and I often felt nervous and unsure of myself. But through the International Foundation Year, I learned that even difficult things can become familiar if I keep trying. This experience taught me to keep challenging myself and now it helps me stay motivated and not give up easily in my MPharm studies.
If I had to sum up my International Foundation Year in one sentence, I would say: It was a turning point that helped me build my confidence, discover my potential and prepare for a future I once thought was out of reach.
Studying at the International Study Centre didn’t just prepare me for university, it helped me believe in myself.