James Hawkins

Second year studying Biological and Medical Sciences (BS) at the University of Liverpool, aiming to go into a postgraduate Life Sciences degree before pursuing a career in the Life Sciences, such as a Clinical Scientist. My experiences including a part time retail job, along with playing in sports teams and musical bands have developed my skills in teamwork, communication, problem solving and time management. These skills have been developed alongside my university studies in the Sciences in which I gained great ability for analytical and critical thinking. These attributes will be vital in carrying out effective work in a scientific environment.

I have worked at B&M Bargains as a Customer Retail Assistant. My responsibilities in this role included the supplying and recovery of the store shelves, unloading store deliveries and accounting for products, general upkeep of the shop floor including cleaning and brushing and providing help to customers (for example, when being asked to locate a certain product in the shop or check for an online delivery.)

The development of time management skills along with improving my ability to multitask under pressure was key. I became adept in scheduling the tasks in my shift and the prioritisation of those that were the most important in order to complete them efficiently while factoring in time needed to sufficiently attend to customers around the store. Teamwork, communication and listening with my colleagues was also vital as it ensured that everyone was on the same page and able to provide support if needed for the optimal running of the store

3 A level grades in Biology, History and Chemistry = A*, A*, A respectively

My time at the University of Liverpool studying Biomedical Science has greatly increased my adaptability and employability. The practical sessions have improved my abilities in teamwork and communication, whereas I have shown an aptitude for problem solving and analytical thinking while studying and completing assignments, such as scientific essays and lab reports.