The Student Room Group

Biology undergrad advice

I am starting a biology undergrad in the fall of this year and was wondering if there is anything I should look at before starting for example revise my A-level notes, read my book list or is there advice someone can give me who is currently studying?
Original post by maryvisha24
I am starting a biology undergrad in the fall of this year and was wondering if there is anything I should look at before starting for example revise my A-level notes, read my book list or is there advice someone can give me who is currently studying?

Hi there,
Coventry University Student Ambassador,
I am a biomedical science student and am in my 2nd year going into the 3rd. From my point of view I believe it's great that you are looking into prepping material before starting your course. I would recommend that reviewing and revising your A-levels material will be a great place to start off as the first year of any course is when universities try and re-brush all your previous knowledge. Which if you have a Quick Look beforehand would be of your much benefit.
Furthermore, I would say you can try looking up which modules you are going to study in your upcoming year and read or try to extend your knowledge on those particular subjects before hand.
As per my knowledge I don't believe universities hand out reading lists before the classes have actually started but you should ask around or maybe look at your portal where you can get some more information on about this.
I hope this was by any means in your scenario,
Wishing you luck with starting your course,
Kind regards,
Harleen.
(edited 2 months ago)
Original post by maryvisha24
I am starting a biology undergrad in the fall of this year and was wondering if there is anything I should look at before starting for example revise my A-level notes, read my book list or is there advice someone can give me who is currently studying?

Hi @maryvisha24

From my experience (biochemistry student, currently in my third year + on placement in the biotech industry) most university courses really do start from the basics in those first few lectures, to make sure everyone is on the same page.

If I could go back to preparing for university, I'd focus more on practising being independent and looking after myself (cooking, cleaning etc) and relax.

Good luck with starting university!
Rebecca (Lancaster Student Ambassador)
Original post by maryvisha24
I am starting a biology undergrad in the fall of this year and was wondering if there is anything I should look at before starting for example revise my A-level notes, read my book list or is there advice someone can give me who is currently studying?

Hi @maryvisha24 😁

As a Biology student, in my experience, I would say that in the first few lectures, the lecturers often give an overview of the basics that you know before going into the deeper understanding of topics that you're going to be learning. However saying this, I would say that if you looked over your A-level notes, especially parts that you might have struggled with, it would be beneficial to you. I wouldn't put too much pressure on this though, as the studying you'll be doing in the year will give you a similar understanding. Don't stress too much about it, and just try to enjoy your summer so that you're ready and refreshed for the academic year!

Wish you luck!
Jen (UoS student rep)

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