Hannah, MSc Biomedical Engineering (Neurotechnology)

Growing up in the Scottish Borders as a first‑generation university student, Hannah forged her own path into STEM through determination, curiosity and a desire to help others. Hannah shares her Imperial story, from getting a scholarship and funding support to how she’s adapting to life in London.

Why did you apply to Imperial?

I applied to Imperial because of its outstanding global reputation and the incredibly high standards it upholds in both research and teaching. I wanted to challenge myself and Imperial felt like a place that would push me to grow.

Growing up in a small town in the Scottish countryside, I always worked hard at school and really enjoyed STEM subjects, especially physics, maths and graphic communication. However, I didn’t have a clear direction on how to pursue these subjects at first. No one in my family had ever been to university, so higher education felt unfamiliar and quite daunting.

Over time, I realised I wanted a career where I could help people. I also loved sport and was fascinated by how the body works, which led me to discover biomedical engineering. It felt like the perfect combination of my strengths in STEM and my desire to make a real difference in people’s lives.

I went on to study a BEng Biomedical Engineering at the University of Dundee, which was a huge achievement for me, having grown in confidence both academically and personally. By my final year, I felt ready to challenge myself even further.

I decided to apply to Imperial because of its outstanding global reputation and the incredibly high standards it upholds in both research and teaching. I’m very hardworking and thrive in environments where the people around me are equally driven and ambitious. I wanted to challenge myself and Imperial felt like a place that would push me to grow. Also, being part of a department at one of the world’s leading universities would mean I’d get exposure to cutting edge research, high academic standards and inspiring peers and staff, and that level of challenge, expertise and meaningful medical impact was very important to me. The academic reputation, the quality of the modules, and the chance to study alongside such driven and talented people made it a no brainer for me. I honestly didn’t expect to get into Imperial, but after achieving First Class Honours in my undergraduate degree, I was proud to be accepted.

I didn’t attend any virtual open days or recruitment events when applying to Imperial, although I sometimes wish I had! I think it would have made the experience of being accepted feel more real and would have eased some of my nerves about moving from the countryside in Scotland to London. However, Imperial’s reputation and the strength of the course were strong enough to motivate me to apply regardless.

Hannah wearing glasses talking to other students at a round table

Postgraduate scholarships and funding support from Imperial

To support me during my studies at Imperial, I was awarded one of the Department of Bioengineering Master's scholarships, which was a one-off payment at the start of the academic year.

I found out about the scholarship through an email from the Department of Bioengineering shortly after I received my offer. I wasn’t actively looking for scholarships or funding at the time, but the department reached out directly to let me know that applications were open for the Master’s Widening Participation Scholarship which could offer funding support. They were very proactive in making me aware of the opportunity, which I really appreciated.

The scholarship application process was straightforward, involving completing a short, written application about my background and motivations followed by an interview. The 15-minute informal panel interview explored my motivations for applying for my course and how the scholarship would support me. The whole interview felt more like a friendly conversation – it was a very relaxed and welcoming experience. After the interview, I was given a one-to-one tour of the campus, which made everything feel very real and exciting.

Although I was not successful in receiving the original Widening Participation Scholarship, I was considered for and awarded the MSc Bioengineering Scholarship instead, which I was incredibly grateful for. The scholarship has provided support that has eased the financial pressures of studying in London, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and make the most of the opportunities available at Imperial. At the start of term, there was also a scholarship celebration lunch where I met other scholars and staff members, which was a lovely way to begin my time at the university and helped me start building connections and feeling part of the community from the very first week.

For future postgraduate students who are applying for scholarships and funding support, my biggest tip would be to be authentic and honest. Take time to reflect on who you are, your journey so far and why you’re pursuing your course. Be clear about your goals and how the scholarship would genuinely support you. I think interview panels really value sincerity and self-awareness. Even if you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, it’s always worth applying. You never know what opportunities might arise.

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Looking up at the Queen's Tower through the trees

What is the MSc Biomedical Engineering course like?

The best thing about the course is the diversity of backgrounds among the students. Everyone brings different strengths, whether from engineering, neuroscience, computing or maths, and that makes group discussions and projects really interesting. I also highly value the flexibility of the elective modules, which allow you to tailor the degree to your specific interests.

I study Neurotechnology, which sits at the intersection of engineering, neuroscience and medicine. The course combines mathematical modelling, data analysis, physiology and neuroscience with practical applications such as brain machine interfaces, reinforcement learning and human neuromechanical control. It’s academically challenging but very applied, constantly linking theory to real world biomedical problems.

Coming from a biomedical engineering background, I wanted to specialise further in an area that directly connects engineering with the nervous system and rehabilitation. Neurotechnology felt like a natural progression because it combines technical problem solving with real clinical impact. I’m particularly interested in prosthetics, rehabilitation engineering and how intelligent systems can interact with the human body, so modules like reinforcement learning and human neuromechanical control really appealed to me.

Imperial has pushed me to think at a higher level, manage pressure more effectively and built my self-confidence so I believe that I belong in competitive environments.

The best thing about the course is the diversity of backgrounds among the students. Everyone brings different strengths, whether from engineering, neuroscience, computing or maths, and that makes group discussions and projects really interesting. I also highly value the flexibility of the elective modules, which allow you to tailor the degree to your specific interests. My favourite module so far has been Reinforcement Learning for Bioengineers because the coursework could be applied to a biomedical problem of our choice, which meant I could align it closely with my interests. I also really enjoyed Human Neuromechanical Control and Learning because it links rehabilitation engineering with intelligent control systems.

Adapting to a different academic structure at Imperial was initially challenging – the pace is fast and the exams are demanding – but overall I see the challenges of the course as exciting because they push me to grow my knowledge and develop my skills. There’s also plenty of resources and support available to help me progress.

The course has made me more resilient, strengthened my confidence in mathematical modelling, data analysis and computational methods, and improved my coding skills and ability to approach complex interdisciplinary problems. Imperial has pushed me to think at a higher level, manage pressure more effectively and built my self-confidence so I believe that I belong in competitive environments. Also, being surrounded by such talented peers has pushed me to raise my own standards and trust in my own abilities more.

Studying at a research-intensive institution means that many of our lecturers are directly involved in cutting edge work. This keeps the teaching current and relevant, and it highlights how the material we learn translates into real clinical and technological impact. It also creates valuable networking opportunities and give you exposure to innovative research projects.

Group photo of Hannah with a staff member and other students

At the Imperial College Scholarship lunch with other scholars!

After completing a 6km race at the Imperial LUCA Cross Country event as part of Imperial's Athletics and Cross Country Club.

After completing a 6km race at the Imperial LUCA Cross Country event as part of Imperial's Athletics and Cross Country Club.

Clubs and societies at Imperial

There are so many societies and clubs available at Imperial, covering a huge range of interests. Whether you’re into sport, culture, music, volunteering or something more niche, there really is something for everyone. I think taking part in club activities is a great way to switch off after a demanding academic day and meet people outside of your course. Being involved in activities beyond studying makes your university experience much more balanced and enjoyable.

I joined the Imperial Athletics and Cross Country Club when I started who offer a wide range of sessions from interval training and breakfast runs to social events, including some specifically for postgraduates. I’ve met people across different year groups and courses at these sessions, which has been fun!

When you first join Imperial, I'd recommend trying something new at a club or society event. University is the perfect time to step outside your comfort zone, so go along to taster sessions, speak to new people and don’t worry about being the best at something – it's more about the community and experience. I also think it’s important to make time for these fun, social activities so you can let off steam and manage your wellbeing alongside studying.

What is student life in London like?

My favourite thing about London is how busy and alive it feels. It can feel overwhelming at first because it’s so busy, but I have grown to love the energy of it. There is always something to do, and it feels like a place where you can constantly grow and try new things – whether that’s visiting a pop-up shop, attending a new café opening, joining a sports event or just exploring a different area. London always feels exciting and full of opportunity. I love that you can finish a day of intense studying and then step straight into such a vibrant city.

One of my favourite experiences so far was when I first moved to London and did a running tour of the main landmarks. Before moving here, I’d never been to the city, so everything felt completely new. I ran past Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the London Eye, along the river and through Hyde Park. It was such a surreal moment because I had grown up in a small town in the Scottish Borders, and suddenly I was running through central London seeing these famous landmarks I’d only ever seen online. It made everything feel very real, exciting and like the start of a whole new chapter.

London can be expensive, but there are ways to manage it. I tend to take the bus instead of the Tube, which costs around £3.50 a day, and I shop on a budget at cheaper supermarkets like Lidl. There are also so many free activities in London, from parks and museums to community events, so you do not need to spend lots of money to enjoy the city.

My biggest advice for students who are moving to London would be to find communities that align with your interests. Finding my community made such a difference for me – London feels much smaller and more welcoming when you find your people. Also, make the most of the parks! Some of my favourite moments are simply running through Battersea Park or sitting in Hyde Park between classes just people watching and taking it all in.

Postgraduate accommodation and living in London

I live in Clapham, which has a great community feel but is still very lively. There are some lovely local pubs like The Northcote and The Falcon, and they often show the rugby, which is a great excuse for me to put on my Scotland jersey.

For cafés and bakeries, August Bakery on Battersea Rise is my absolute favourite. Their pastries are amazing and 100% worth the queue. There’s also a new café near me called The Twisted Sister that does really good coffee.

In terms of green, outdoor spaces, Battersea Park is my favourite place, especially to run in because it’s close to where I live and feels calm despite being in London. I’ve even spotted some well-known runners training there, which is so exciting and really motivating. Richmond Park is also incredible – it honestly doesn’t feel like you’re in London at all with the amount of wildlife and open space there. Richmond itself is such a beautiful area to explore and is perfect for a slower weekend afternoon.

Hannah in a pub with a friend. A pint of Guinness is on the table in front of them

Watching the rugby with friends at one of my local pubs in Clapham. Wearing my Scotland jersey, it was such a nice way to feel connected to home while living in London.

Hannah at an event standing with Team GB Olympic runners Eilish McColgan and Michael Rimmer.

Meeting Team GB runners Eilish McColgan and Michael Rimmer at a Vitality 10km event in my very first weekend living in London! Eilish is from Dundee where I completed my undergraduate degree, so it felt like a real full circle moment. I'd previously done some coaching sessions with her Mum, Liz McColgan, who is a former world champion, so meeting Eilish in London at the start of this new chapter in my life felt incredibly meaningful and inspiring.

Meeting Team GB runners Eilish McColgan and Michael Rimmer at a Vitality 10km event in my very first weekend living in London!

What's life at Imperial really like?

Connect with current students and explore the vibrant community that makes life at Imperial so unique.

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Looking to the future – how Imperial is supporting my career goals

After I graduate, I want to work in the engineering sector with my long-term goal being to work in the prosthetics sector, as that combines my interest in engineering, human movement and improving people’s quality of life.

At the beginning of my Master’s, I was still exploring whether research might be something I’d like to pursue, but I’ve realised I’m more suited to industry as I enjoy applying knowledge to practical problems and seeing tangible outcomes. My course has helped confirm that I want to build a career in engineering rather than academia.

I've used Imperial’s Careers Service for support with my CV and to explore potential career paths. They have helped me think more clearly about the types of roles I should be applying for and how to present my experience confidently which has made the job search process feel much more structured and manageable.

My careers advice would be to start thinking about your next step early and make use of the Careers Service. Even small things like refining your CV or attending a careers event can make a big difference. Be open minded about opportunities, especially at the beginning of your career, and focus on building strong engineering foundations. Most importantly, believe that you are capable. Imperial can feel intense, but it prepares you well for industry and competitive roles.

Believe in your ability, work hard on your application, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back.

If you’re thinking about applying to Imperial, I say go for it! I applied not fully expecting to be accepted, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made.

Believe in your ability, work hard on your application, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Also, if you can, attend open days or virtual sessions, as I believe they really help ease your nerves and will make the experience feel more real before starting.

If you’re thinking about applying for the MSc Biomedical Engineering, be prepared to work hard and step outside your comfort zone, especially if you’re coming from a more specialised background. Take advantage of the elective modules to tailor the course to your interests, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. The challenge is part of what makes the experience so worthwhile.