A TALENTED student from Renton has told how a flexible structure to learning has put her on a path to a future career as a scientist.

Kim Lucas, 20, from Renton, Alexandria, is now embarking on a degree course at university after taking advantage of a National Certificate, followed by an HND course in Applied Science studies at West College Scotland, Clydebank.

And Kim, who is now studying Biological Science and Human Health, told how courses at the WCS helped whet her appetite for science.

She told The Reporter: "I liked that the course at WCS was biology/chemistry based and not physics and maths – I wasn’t particularly strong at these subjects at school."

The NC Applied Course at West College Scotland offers those studying it the opportunity to gain the skills needed to get a trainee technician role in a laboratory or move onto further study.

In addition, it incorporates a work experience module which gives students an advantage when applying for further study.

Therese Shearer, curriculum and quality leader for science at the college said: "To become a scientist you need experience in experimentation – so gaining suitable work experience is crucial.

"Our department have worked very hard over the years to make sure we can offer our students suitable work experiences through our industry partners."

Kim also agreed that work experience was important for her studies.

She said: "My time at college had great work experience opportunities; my placement was in the Queen Elizabeth University Labs.

"Having such amazing work experience was definitely a big selling point for University – and it was so advantageous to have when going up against other applicants.

"I fell in love with Biology and Chemistry units and it sparked my interest, so I decided to study biochemistry.

"I will take my whole career in this direction after doing this course here."

She added: "I 100 per cent loved my course and I felt well prepared for my HNC Applied Science Course, which I’ve just finished.

"I’m looking forward to studying Post Grad in Medicine after I finish my University course."

For more information visit www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk