IBMS eStudent Jasmine Turner wins award

At the recent IBMS West Midlands & Birmingham AGM, Coventry University Student Jasmine Turner was recognised with an award for being the most improved student on a BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science course for her placement at Birmingham Children’s Hospital (BCH).

Emma Frith (Lecturer in Biomedical Science and Placement Tutor at Coventry University), said the following about Jasmine’s achievement:

Jasmine began her Biomedical Science degree studies in 2013 and following completion of her second year, successfully applied for a training year at BCH. At the start of the placement, Jasmine thought of herself as a 'typical student with biomedical theoretical knowledge but very little application and understanding of biomedical science as a whole'. However, following her year in an NHS laboratory, Jasmine now not only appreciates the work undertaken and the skills required but now also has an understanding of the professional qualities required.

Jasmine said of the event “I feel very lucky to have won the award for my University! I am honoured and proud to be acknowledged for my hard work at BCH and cannot thank everyone enough for helping me settle in and guiding me daily”.

Feedback from all staff involved in helping Jasmine at BCH was nothing but positive throughout her placement. It was fantastic not only for the placement tutors to see her development but also as an ambassador of the university. Each year we encourage as many of our students to apply for placements as possible, being practitioners as well as placement supervisors, we know how important laboratory experience is for a student’s CV to help them stand out to employers. Given the competition, it is not always possible. But for the students who are successful, it is satisfying to see them change so much over 12 months and come back to the university with a passion for the career that matches our own.

Yvette Taylor, ‎Pathology Training Manager at Birmingham Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said, “I nominated Jasmine for the award because I felt that her achievements during her placement year should be recognised. Jasmine started her placement in September 2015 and was a quiet student initially. She picked up practical skills very quickly and produced an excellent standard of work; her portfolio was completed to a high standard.

While she was with us, Jasmine became more confident and her personality shone. She was caring, helpful and nothing was too much trouble for her (including labelling and boxing worksheets for long term storage!). She thrived on being kept busy. We employed her during the summer and all of her training was put to good use. She worked between two laboratories. She knew exactly what work needed doing and organised it herself, always producing great work. She was a pleasure to have on placement and I am sure she will do well in the profession once she graduates”.

Jasmine really enjoyed her placement at BCH and felt extremely supported and guided throughout the completion of the registration portfolio. Upon returning to university, it is clear the year in the lab has had a huge impact. Not only is she far more confident in her abilities and her studies, but she is able to put her knowledge and skills into practice for her final year of study. Jasmine is currently completing her final year dissertation project externally at BCH in the molecular genetics laboratory and hopes to work as a biomedical scientist within clinical chemistry or haematology upon graduation.

Congratulations Jasmine from all at Coventry University and BCH.

The IBMS offers warm congratulations to Jasmine for her accomplishment, and wishes her all the best in her future career.