Ben Wildey
Today I had the opportunity to interview my friend Joseph about his journey into studying Biology at university and how his curiosity developed into a clear sense of purpose.
Q: What first sparked your interest in science while you were at school?
I have always had an affinity for exploring and learning new things. I was probably an annoying child because I was constantly asking how things worked and why things happen.
However, my perspective shifted after seeing a few people I know become seriously ill. I realised I was curious enough—and capable enough—to potentially help others, and that’s when my interest in biology became something more than just curiosity.
Q: When you were in sixth form, did you always know you wanted to study science at university, or did that decision come later?
Whilst I knew I wanted a career in biology, possibly through forensic science or a lab apprenticeship. The decision to attend university came later in sixth form.
As my curiosity grew, especially around the complex biological processes happening inside living organisms, I realised I wanted to study it at a higher level.
Q: What factors influenced your choice of course and university the most?
There were a number of factors that influenced my decision. I liked that the campus was very green, the city itself was great, and the course was hands-on with a strong focus on developing laboratory skills.
What really confirmed my decision was attending an application day at the University of East Anglia. Meeting other students who were just as passionate about biology, and speaking to lecturers and lab technicians, made it feel like the right place for me.
Q: What expectations did you have about studying science at university before you started?
I went in expecting biology to be challenging, the labs would be difficult, the content overwhelming at times, and there would be occasional failures.
The reality has matched those expectations. I’ve experienced everything from disappointing lab results to personal challenges outside of university. However, staying passionate and remembering my original “why” has helped me push through those moments.
Having a strong group of friends along the way has also made a huge difference.
Q: What was the biggest adjustment when you first arrived at university?
The biggest adjustment was the lifestyle. It felt like a constant balance between becoming independent and maintaining a social life.
At first, it was difficult to manage both, but over time you find a rhythm. Once you do, everything starts to feel more natural and manageable.
Q: Looking back now, what advice would you give to your sixth form self?
There will be times when things feel difficult and you start questioning everything—why you’re here and what you want to do after you graduate.
But it’s okay to question things. It helps you stay curious and engaged with the wide range of topics biology has to offer. You don’t need to have everything figured out straight away.
Joseph’s journey shows that while the path through science can be challenging, staying connected to your purpose and embracing uncertainty can carry you further than having everything planned from the start.