“This course is the modern biology, it is the future, it is the today. Cells and DNA make up all of us, and to understand these is a mission which will be well rewarded”
Caleb Cullen started on the BSc (H) Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science in Waterford in 2020. A past pupil of Ramsgrange Community School he is a WIT President’s Scholarship recipient.
I wanted to study this course at WIT because:
I have always had an interest in all things science, especially biology. Ever since I was a young age, I have always asked questions about things I notice in the natural world, and these questions led me to my passion for science, for digging into the biggest questions which need answers, hoping one day to aid in revealing more information regarding the fundamental biology of all living things.
The highlights of my college experience include:
While the pandemic shunted my first year of education here at WIT, my second year only reminded me of the perfect college experience. Personally, I feel one of the best parts of my college experience is the great group of people, of similar mindsets and interests, that I have met through my course, societies, and events which WIT has to offer. The social circles which are inclusive to everyone help form a bond which cannot be formed any other way. While I have not had time to join any clubs, the friends I have made in my course and beyond will stick with me for years after graduation.
Why I would recommend studying in Waterford:
Waterford was rated Ireland's best place to live in 2021 for a reason. Its combination of nightlife, inclusivity, and easy access makes it a lovely city to live in. What makes Waterford even better however is WIT, which provides great teaching, societies and facilities which make studying here all the more worthwhile. The lecturers are inclusive and very helpful, and the classes are small compared to other institutes, so you will always be seen and heard, and listened to and aided if required. There are many clubs and societies, and if sports is a hobby of yours, the WIT Arena offers top class equipment and teams which you will fit straight in. Waterford has so much to offer and is underrated as an area to study in.
My favourite module:
My favourite part of Molecular Biology is the Biotechnology and the recombinant DNA technology. The module Microbial Genetics and Biotechnology, studied in semester 4, was very interesting to me as it was exactly what I hoped to be studying and it is an area which I would love to explore more after my time here in WIT. The labs are very hands-on, with little machinery or automated systems, so all results are your results. It is such an interesting topic which anyone with a passion for biology.
My advice for CAO applicants to this course:
If you enjoyed Leaving Cert Biology, and can see yourself becoming a biologist, this course is for you. This course is the modern biology, it is the future, it is the today. Cells and DNA make up all of us, and to understand these is a mission which will be well rewarded. While this course is very demanding at times, the reward is worth it. If you feel a connection to biology, consider this course. Do not let yourself get overwhelmed by the sheer work that needs to be put into this course, it is well spaced and the lecturers are constantly available to help.
SETU Waterford, Cork Road, Waterford City, 
