Zoology course help for firm choice

Hi my son has 5/5 offers and has narrowed his choices down to Reading, Lincoln, Chester and Southampton. He is really struggling to decide on the best option for firm choice as they all seem to have pro's and con's in different ways. Can anyone doing this course at any of these uni's offer some advice or just let us know how you're finding the course and uni. This will be a big help.

Hiya @Mayoui
Our Zoology course is research-intensive and fast-paced. We offer unique field trips to Spain and Belize and a partnership with Marwell Wildlife as well. It’s ideal for high-achieving students, though some find the large Russell Group environment less personal than smaller universities. You can have a look at the Southampton Zoology BSc to check if the modules fit what your son is looking for! One thing that might help is reaching out to alumni on LinkedIn! They are often super friendly and highly informative. Open days also give you a chance to chat with current students. 🙂
Anusha
University of Southampton

Hi, I am a final year zoology student currently at the University of Southampton so I though I would also give my insight.
I have found it to be a great course with lots of opportunities for field trips, lab work and independent study - depending on what you would like to focus on! The field trips have really been a highlight for me, and you can read more about them and what modules you will be offered here. The course can be challenging but you get lots of support from your tutor, academic reps, and other staff in the department - all of whom are very friendly. In my year, there are not loads of zoologists (<30 students), and I know this changes year on year, but it provides a nice atmosphere where you really get to know everybody. You will also have lots of interactions with people on other courses, for example biology, marine biology or environmental science.
Let me know if there is anything else specifically you would like to know about the course - I would be happy to answer any questions.
Rachel (UoS student ambassador)

Hi Rachel, thanks for your helpful reply. The reply above yours is what concerns me a little with the comments on being heavily research based and ideal for high-achieving students. My son is a high achiever but he does not want to go somewhere that feels 'stuffy' and overly academic. Is it like this there? However, one of the attractions was the amount of field trips and lab work etc. This is what my son wants rather than being stuck in a lecture hall/classroom for most of the course. Furthermore, how easy do you find it is to get about town as i recall the city centre being quit a distance from the campus?

Hi, I am sorry for missing this for a week!
Throughout my time at Southampton doing Zoology, I have not experienced that there was ever too much pressure that created unwanted stress, outside of typical expectations you would expect from a university. I think the lecturers and people on the course create a wonderful environment, and it is clear from the beginning they are there to help with any worries or concerns.
The opportunities outside of lectures is what really drew me to Southampton to! I think it is great and especially in second and third year, where you have the opportunities to pick modules, you will be able to tailor the course to what suites you (I made sure I was picking ones with lots of field work!). The staff also clearly enjoy all the trips which I think definitely helps. To me, I never had an impersonal experience, and have found it to be highly rewarding.
It is also very easy to get into town from campus (and also from accommodation you might find yourself in for first year) as there is a big bus interchange with frequent buses running throughout the day which go into town. Once you get used to it, it doesn't feel far at all!
I hope this eases some of your concerns, please let me know if you have any more I will make sure to keep an eye out 😀
Rachel (UoS student ambassador)