Post by Lily Starkey

Today I found out I will be graduating with First Class Honours from the University of Bath, which secures my spot to study oncology at the University of Oxford this year. But underneath the degree is so much more. Weeks before starting my journey in Bath, I was involved in a serious car accident which has left me with life changing injuries. For 3 months, my mum would drive us up to Bath at 5 in the morning in order to make it to the wet lab sessions so I didn't have to defer the year. After overcoming my injuries from the accident, I then underwent a surgery during my second year exam period. On top of this, I was still dealing with the after effects of the accident and its impact on my social life, mental health, and physical wellbeing. Finally, as I approached the first exam season of my final year, my partner was diagnosed with a rare, cancerous, brain tumour. While I was completing coursework and group projects, I supported my partner through the brutal effects of radiotherapy. Four days before my first exam, he began chemotherapy. The fact I have made it to the end of my degree without deferring or failing is not a miracle. It is the product of 'proper hard graft' (as my mum would say) and the incredible support I have recieved. Friends, family, staff at the University of Bath, colleagues, and everyone in between has helped me make it to the top of the mountain and I couldn't be more grateful. Here's to the next journey !