Eleanor Tobelem studied our Genomic Medicine MSc. She reflects on her time at St George's and tells us how the supportive community prepared her to study medicine.
"I found there to be options for people with all types of interests to discover new methods, techniques, and fields of genomic medicine; and enrich those they already had."
Please explain a bit about your background
I decided to pursue a Master's in Genomic Medicine after undertaking a specialisation in Genomics in my Bachelor's. I have an invested interest in research, and I was looking for a course that would challenge me to think in the “bigger picture” format about how genomics could be applied in medical and clinical settings. The joint teaching with King’s and St George’s for this MSc, and the modules advertised, were a perfect fit.
Why did you choose St George’s?
I chose St George’s for many reasons but one of the main ones was that I knew I would be supported throughout the entire degree. I completed my BSc at St George’s, and I had such an incredible experience; from the breadth and depth of learning to the wonderful community, I knew that I wanted to remain there for my postgraduate degree. The new environment of King’s was also appealing, and an opportunity for me widen my horizons, whilst also strengthening my ties to George’s.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
The main selling point of the course for me was the variety of modules available. I particularly loved the Pharmacogenomics module which looked at the study and design of biomarkers in a personalised medicine setting; as well as the Cardiovascular Genomics module which is quite unique. I found there to be options for people with all types of interests to discover new methods, techniques, and fields of genomic medicine; and enrich those they already had. Personally, the MSc also allowed me to build familiarity and an open-minded learning environment both with my peers and my lecturers, an opportunity I will cherish forever.
What are the key skills that you’ve gained during your course?
The course was a great challenge to conquer and learn from. I was able to push myself out of my comfort zone by participating in modules I would never have thought myself capable such as in the Advanced Bioinformatics module. The course was also an opportunity for me to further pursue my passion for research - with the privilege of being able to work with experts in the field both from St George’s and King’s for a longer period of time. I hope to strengthen the curiosity, perseverance, and problem-solving skills that this MSc required of me throughout my scientific career.
Please can you tell us about your research project?
As part of the Genomic Medicine MSc, students complete a research project with a Supervisor from St George’s or King’s, with a multitude of topics to choose from. My project, undertaken under the supervision of Dr Deborah Cunninghame-Graham at King’s, aimed to better understand the reason behind the sex bias found in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). SLE is whole-body, inflammatory autoimmune disease, which disproportionately affects women-to-men with 9:1 ratio. I particularly chose the project as a relative of mine suffers from the condition, and the project gave me the space to explore topics such as epigenetics, and immunology, as well as discuss the greater implications of female-predominant autoimmune diseases within healthcare settings. The project was an incredible opportunity for me to learn new skills and improve those I had already obtained previously. The large variety of project topic options, as well as the ability to create a topic of your own was a major plus of the degree, and something I thoroughly enjoyed. The weekly meetings I had with my supervisor helped to guide first my writing, and then later my structure. The lessons I learnt from this experience are ones I will keep with me throughout my scientific career.
Were you involved in any extra-curricular activities?
I became quite involved with my St George’s family, something I am very proud of. Of particular note, I was the 2022/23 President of the Jewish Society and I initiated many events where the entire University was welcome, including Interfaith discussions, an awe-inspiring talk with a Holocaust Survivor during Holocaust Remembrance Week in January, and running a Bake Sale for Ukraine Relief. In my MSc, I continued my involvement in student life by becoming a student representative, relaying feedback and concerns from my fellow students to lecturers and course directors. Seeing that my colleagues’ feedback was valued was a great a way to be directly involved in my course trajectory.
What were your favourite places to socialise in Tooting and why?
As a commuter, I always loved visiting the Tooting Market on less hectic days which allowed me to experience the beautiful diversity and culture that this part of South West London has to offer. The Student Union Bar was also a great place to meet with friends, get some work done; or even go to one of the many society-led events being held there.
Do you have any specific careers aspirations?
Throughout my time at St George’s I was very vocal with the fact that I aspired to study medicine. The support and encouragement I received from lecturers, personal tutors, and peers has surely been a great driver for getting me to where I am today. I sincerely could not have done this without them, and I am so grateful. My time at St George’s also fostered my passion for research, as well as the ability to regularly and thoroughly analyse scientific studies, methods and techniques with a critical eye - something that has worked wonders for my innovative mindset.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying your course?
The course is challenging and intense. Come to lectures ready to learn and discover about whichever topic you are being taught. Do not be afraid to ask questions and ask for help, your lecturers and professors at St George’s are always there for you and want you to succeed. Most importantly, have fun and make the most out of this incredible opportunity!
Describe St George’s in 3 words
Nurturing. Empowering. Unique.