My name is Charis and I am studying A levels in biology, chemistry and maths in Year 12. I have also just completed my extended project qualification – a dissertation on the effect of antibiotic resistance on battlefield injury survival.

When I leave UTC Oxfordshire I’d like to either go to university or into the RAF. Since joining the UTC I have completed several work experience placements including: The Medical Research Council, John Radcliffe Hospital, a science placement through Science Oxford and will soon be completing a two week audiology and optometry placement.

I first joined in Year 10 studying for my GCSEs. Back then I was sometimes the only girl in the class. No one treated me any differently and I got used to it very quickly. Now there are plenty of girls in all my lessons.

Some girls might be put off studying for a career in a STEM related subject, choosing to follow the crowd, despite having an interest in science or maths; my advice to them would be to go for it because you’ll do better at something you really have a passion for than just going along with everyone else. There are great opportunities at UTC Oxfordshire.