Laima Tokhi

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I chose to study at University of Westminster as it is centrally located in London, one of the world's most vibrant and diverse cities. This gives students access to a wealth of opportunities, both academically and professionally, as well as cultural, social, and extracurricular activities. University of Westminster is equipped with modern lab facilities, particularly in fields like science, engineering, and technology. These labs provide students with hands-on learning experiences, making it a great choice if you're looking for practical, experimental work as part of your education. If you’re looking to engage in real-world scientific projects, Westminster may offer opportunities for collaborations with industry partners, external research labs, or scientific organisations, providing further lab-based experience and possibly even the chance to work on cutting-edge experiments with industry professionals.

How has your experience been studying in London?

Being in London, you have access to some of the best academic resources, libraries, and research centres. Whether it's for Pharmacology or any other field, having access to cutting-edge labs, research libraries, and industry-standard resources have enriched my learning experience. London’s universities often collaborate with prestigious hospitals, research centres, and pharmaceutical companies, giving you access to real-world data and industry experts, particularly studying at Westminster. London is a global hub for many industries, including pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and technology. Studying in the city means you have countless opportunities to network with professionals, attend industry events, and pursue internships or work placements. If you are interested in a career in pharmacology, London’s vast healthcare and pharmaceutical network allow you to interact with leading companies and researchers.    

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

The theoretical aspects of Pharmacology at Westminster have provided me with a comprehensive understanding of drug action, drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacogenomics. The combination of lectures, seminars, and tutorials have enhanced my foundational knowledge while also diving into the mechanisms of drug action and disease-modifying therapies. The support from lecturers, mentors, and academic advisors at Westminster have played a big role in guiding me through complex pharmacological concepts. Westminster offers a strong support system for students, that have made a significant difference in my ability to succeed in a demanding subject like Pharmacology and Physiology.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

The Pharmacology and Physiology department has dedicated faculty members who are experts in the field and passionate about supporting their students. Whether it’s through one-on-one consultations, tutorials, or office hours, the professors make themselves available to help clarify difficult concepts, offer career advice, or guide you through complex topics. Many students benefit from peer support, and the Pharmacology and Physiology team always encourage study groups, group projects, or lab collaborations. Engaging with my peers allowed me to share insights, solve problems together, and prepare for assignments with a community of like-minded individuals.

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

One of the standout facilities for students in Pharmacology and Physiology is the Apollo Simulation Centre. This state-of-the-art facility offers real-life simulation technology that provides students with a hands-on, immersive learning environment. For pharmacology students, this could involve simulating clinical scenarios, such as how different drugs interact in the body or how physiological systems respond to certain treatments.

The Apollo Simulation Centre uses high-tech equipment that replicates real-world clinical settings. You might use this space to practice making clinical decisions, understanding patient responses to medications, and learning about drug delivery systems in a simulated, controlled environment. This makes it a fantastic resource for applying theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.

Tell us about your experience of using the University Careers and Employability Service  

The Careers Service at Westminster provides personalised support where I could book one-on-one appointments with career advisors. During these sessions, I received advice on CV writing, cover letter crafting, and interview preparation. They were always available to answer any questions I had about navigating the job market or career options specific to my degree, like those in pharmacology or clinical research.

The service was extremely helpful when it came to refining my CV and job applications. They provided detailed feedback, pointing out areas for improvement and helping me highlight relevant skills and experience. Whether applying for internships or looking for work in pharmaceutical companies, their guidance helped me stand out in competitive fields.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course  

Outside of my course, I have actively engaged in a number of activities that have enriched my academic and professional development, particularly in the field of Pharmacology. These experiences have allowed me to deepen my understanding of the subject and build connections within the industry.

I regularly participate in online lab simulations, which have been incredibly useful in reinforcing my understanding of drug interactions, pharmacokinetics, and other core topics in Pharmacology. These simulations give me a hands-on learning experience, allowing me to practice conducting experiments and analysing results in a virtual setting. This experience has helped me become more comfortable with lab-based concepts and prepared me for future practical work.

I’ve attended numerous webinars related to Pharmacology, many of which feature guest speakers from leading pharmaceutical companies or academic researchers. These webinars allow me to stay up to date with the latest advancements in drug development, clinical research, and pharmacological innovations. They also provide an excellent opportunity to engage with experts in the field and ask questions about topics that interest me, giving me insights into real-world applications of what I study in class.

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

Westminster has a vibrant student community with a wide range of clubs, societies, and events. Whether you’re interested in sports, volunteering, or subject-related societies (like a Pharmacology or science society), getting involved will help you connect with others who share your interests. These experiences can offer great personal development, build friendships, and open doors to new opportunities.

Take full advantage of the Careers and Employability Services at Westminster. The support they offer, from CV reviews to internship opportunities and career advice is invaluable for helping you navigate your career path. Don’t wait until the end of your studies to connect with them; getting guidance early on can help you plan for your future.

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

The university has established excellent relationships with a range of industries, offering students access to internships, job placements, and industry events. These connections can provide a direct route into your chosen field, whether you’re looking to work in pharmaceuticals, engineering, media, or finance. Westminster also organises career fairs, guest lectures, and networking events that bring top employers and industry leaders to campus, making it easier to build valuable professional connections.

Westminster offers a wide range of student support services, from academic guidance and careers advice to well-being support and mental health resources. The university is committed to helping students succeed not only academically but also personally. Whether you need help managing your workload, finding career opportunities, or accessing mental health support, the university provides the resources to ensure that students feel supported throughout their journey.    

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

While I expected some level of academic support, I was pleasantly surprised by how hands-on and approachable the faculty and staff are. From one-on-one meetings with lecturers to tailored career advice from the Careers and Employability Service, I found that Westminster truly values its students’ success. The staff genuinely takes an interest in your growth, which made me feel like I wasn’t just another face in the crowd.

Another unexpected surprise was the level of real-world application that was integrated into the curriculum. For example, in Pharmacology, we weren’t just learning from textbooks - we were given opportunities to engage with online simulations, lab-based experiments, and even clinical scenarios. The chance to work on these hands-on activities while still being in an academic setting made the learning feel much more relevant and engaging.