Adil Shah

Why did you choose to study Natural Sciences?

During my A-levels, I absolutely loved chemistry and I absolutely loved physics in equal amounts. I wanted to start a degree that allowed me to explore both subjects in depth, with the opportunity to tailor my skillset for my long term ambitions.

What attracted you to the University of Leeds?

Leeds prides itself for its interdisciplinary research. This made the University of Leeds a perfect place to witness how traditionally separate disciplines can come together to fulfil mutual scientific goals.

Leeds has three major, well stocked libraries, plenty of space to study and a rich assortment of IT resources.

Did you visit us on an Open Day? Did you find the open day helpful in making your decision?

Attending an Open Day was vital in making my decision to study here.

As soon as I visited the campus, I knew that Leeds was the place I wanted to be.

While the campus is a short walk from the town centre, it is separated from the city. Everything you need can be found in one place.

What do you enjoy the most about your course?

Throughout my course, I have most enjoyed attending lectures on the same topic but as part of different modules in different subjects.

This has allowed me to experience topics such as thermodynamics from a far more fruitful angle.

Rather than learning a topic as a subject exclusive discipline, I have learnt how a topic has potential to have many more applications than those we are taught in a single lecture.

How would you describe student life at Leeds?

Life as a student at Leeds is amazing. There are plenty of opportunities here to get involved in whatever you wish to explore.

There is lots of support available at the University if ever you struggle with any issue at all. There is plenty of choice in terms of accommodation, plenty of places to socialise and one of the best student unions in the country.

Are you involved in any clubs or societies?

Being a joint-honours student means I am able to join two departmental societies which means I get to know loads of people from both chemistry and physics.

Alongside departmental societies there are so many other societies to choose from.

I am a member of the orienteering society which organise regular activities to keep me fit. As well as this I joined Leeds Student Radio where I presented my own science radio show called Heart of Science, inviting guests from all scientific disciplines to discuss topics of general scientific interest. 

What is Leeds as a city like?

Leeds is a perfect city for students. I would argue, the best student city in the country.

There are plenty of bars, pubs, restaurants, cafes and open green spaces. Any shop you can think of can be found in the city centre and the markets can offer amazing bargains.

There is a rich choice of accommodation available and there is always something to do when you are not busy studying.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of applying to the School of Chemistry?

Try to gain as much experience of science outside of the classroom as you gain inside the classroom.

Attend public lectures at your local university, watch scientific documentaries and read challenging scientific books.

Prepare yourself for the experience by immersing yourself in science and find out if science is truly something you wish to pursue. 

What are your plans for the future?

I have accepted a conditional offer on a fully-funded PhD course at the University of Manchester in the Atmospheric Sciences.

I shall be using unmanned ariel vehicles to track greenhouse gas emissions from sites of particular interest.

Do you have any other comments you would like to make?

The University of Leeds is a truly unique and special place to study. I would highly recommend you visit the campus to see if you agree.