Jasmine Abdy Testimonial - Postgraduate Profiles
Jasmine Abdy

Meet Jasmine Abdy, a MSc Genomic Medicine student exploring the frontiers of genomics while enjoying London life and the occasional scuba dive. In this interview, Jasmine shares how her course is preparing her for a future in genomic medicine – from building research skills in the lab to applying learning in NHS settings.

Learning and Career Goals

Why did you choose City St George’s and your specific programme for postgraduate study?

I was drawn to the City St George’s MSc programme in Genomic Medicine as all the teaching occurs in NHS hospitals and the course is aligned to the NHS curriculum, giving me real-world exposure to build the key skills needed for a future job in healthcare. Genomics is at the forefront of the NHS’s future plans, making it a really exciting sector to join.

I was also fortunate enough to be awarded a tuition scholarship, making City St George’s even more enticing, so make sure to look out for similar opportunities!

What are your current plans or hopes for your career?

I have always had the goal of a career within healthcare and the NHS. I hope to become a Genomic Counsellor in the future, which involves communicating medical information and guiding patient treatment using information derived from our DNA! My course gives me an excellent grounding in the fundamentals as well as more specialised genomics, which I hope to use when applying for the NHS Scientist Training Programme.

How would you describe the teaching or learning style within your course and School?

So far, I have loved the fact that the teaching style on my course is extremely varied and also flexible around part-time work. Not only do we have amazing lecturers at City St George’s, but we also get to hear from a range of lecturers who all have diverse backgrounds, including those from industry, government, and even some who lecture from abroad. Delivery of teaching isn’t just restricted to lectures, but we also have seminars and computer workshops.

Campus, Community, and the City

What societies or student organisations do you enjoy at City St George’s?

Having loved badminton society during my undergraduate studies, I have joined the Tooting campus badminton society and attend the social sessions. These are very casual, fun, and you get to meet a range of people! I especially enjoy the GetActive Club sessions and the Sister Sport (women’s only) events.

What do you like to do for fun outside of your studies?

When I’m not studying, I usually have my nose in a book with a cup of tea! My more adventurous side, however, loves SCUBA diving! I went on a Summer Abroad programme to learn how to SCUBA dive in Indonesia in 2023, and this most recent summer, I explored the oceans in Japan and Italy.

How has living in London shaped your experience as a postgraduate student?

Attending a university in London has exposed me to a diverse academic and cultural environment, allowing me to collaborate with peers from around the world and access world-class research facilities. I also love the fact that you are never stuck for something to do in London, meaning that it is easy to unwind and have fun outside of uni work. My favourite activities include trying new matcha places with friends, going to the theatre and exploring the parks!

Tips for New Postgraduates

What challenges did you face early on in your postgraduate journey, and how did you overcome them?

Adjusting to the academic demands of a master’s was a challenge at the start of my degree. My personal tutor, as well as the module leads, were really helpful in providing extra resources I could use and guidance. Don’t be afraid to email or speak to them in person, even if it’s about the smallest things, so making the most of the lecturers and other academic staff around you is key to settling in, as they provide so much help!

What is one piece of advice you would give your past self before starting postgraduate study?

I would tell my past self to embrace the process of learning and really enjoy every moment, as one year soon flies by! Postgraduate study can be intense, but it’s also a unique opportunity to explore ideas deeply, make mistakes, and grow intellectually. I’d remind myself to seek support when needed, build relationships with peers and mentors early, and maintain a balance between work and wellbeing; it makes the journey more sustainable and rewarding.

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