Karn R

I’d say my favourite part so far is definitely the amazing facilities especially the libraries and the gym, which are top-notch. One highlight for me was one of the very first assignments I got as an MSc student in Biophysics. We had to write a 2000-word analysis based on the structure file of an unknown protein. Everyone was pretty nervous since we had to learn how to visualize it using specific software and do a lot of literature research. It definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone, but that’s exactly what I was hoping for, to challenge myself and grow as a student here.

On a typical day, I’d start by waking up and heading to the Pleasance Gym, make myself some breakfast, then take the shuttle to King’s to get ready for class.

This semester, I’m taking four modules. Our cohort is quite small, which I really enjoy because it allows for more focused discussions and personalized attention during classes and tutorials. The lecture recordings are also really helpful in case anyone misses a class (though I haven’t missed a single one yet!). The labs are generally very well-equipped, and having support from four student demonstrators makes everything run smoothly.

After lectures, I try to do a bit more work and then unwind by playing card games or hanging out with friends. I have also joined intramural sports in 5-a-side football with Bio Society and 11-a-side football with ECON FC. It’s a pretty simple routine, but I feel really productive and happy whenever I manage to keep it going. I really hope I can stick to it throughout the year and make this year a very productive one for me.

I usually keep my Wednesdays free to work on tutorial questions for Friday. On those days, I like to review the lectures, discuss ideas with friends, or look things up to deepen my understanding. For me, it’s not about getting every question right, what matters more is how I approach the problems and what I learn in the process. I think this mindset helps build a stronger foundation and reduces the pressure during exam revision week.

Pleasance Gym | University of Edinburgh 

Intramural sport | Edinburgh University Sports Union

Right now, I’m mainly focusing on my classes since it’s still early in the semester. However, I’ve started reaching out to professors whose research interests align with mine, I also hoping to explore the possibility of starting the project a bit earlier to gain more hands-on research experience.

I’m currently living in university accommodation, in one of the postgraduate halls. Even though it’s located in the city and a bit far from King’s, it’s only about a 10-minute walk to the free shuttle bus, or roughly a 45-minute walk to King’s itself (I usually walk every day, at least for the return trip after class). One of the best things about living here is how close it is to the city centre, just a few minutes from grocery stores, the main library, and the shopping streets. Plus, Pleasance (the university gym) is only a minute away, which is super convenient.

Postgraduate accommodation | University of Edinburgh

I chose the University of Edinburgh mainly because of the snap and helpful responses I felt during the admission/enquiries process, the communication was timely and considerate. A big deciding factor was also that, when I reached out to professors while I was still in Thailand, only a professor from the University of Edinburgh took the time to respond with genuine attention rather than a generic reply. That really left a strong impression on me. Beyond that, the university has a number of outstanding faculty members whose work I deeply admire and hope to learn from in the future.

The city itself also drew me in, it reminds me a lot of my childhood experience during an exchange year in Brugge, Belgium. They share a similar charm and atmosphere, though Edinburgh feels bigger, livelier, and more diverse. Scotland as a whole fascinates me with its unique culture, beautiful nature, and welcoming people which I can’t wait to know and explore more of it.

I think I’ve done a really good job preparing myself for the MSc year, and if I could turn back time, I wouldn’t change a thing. One piece of advice I’d give to future students is to take some time to assess and clarify your mind and understand why you want to be here. There are so many opportunities and directions you can take once you’re here, and having a clear sense of purpose will help you make the most out of this year without feeling overwhelmed. Settling in wasn’t too difficult for me, as I’ve studied in several countries during my exchange programmes including Singapore, Belgium, and the USA. I’m really looking forward to embracing my time here and continuing to raise my standards to truly deserve being a student at this university.

I do have a rough plan, even though I’m not entirely sure when or how it’s going to happen. Eventually, I’d like to pursue a PhD focused on the topic of Cell-epiregulation, but I’m also considering working for a while in either industry or an academic lab beforehand.

This content has been created by one of our students who has been incentivised to tell their authentic story.