I have always enjoyed science but I would often find myself in trouble at school. This almost led to a decision by the school to prevent me from taking up double science as an option, with poor behaviour as the reason. I enjoyed science and was also really good at it, and so it was decided I would be allowed to pursue double science at GCSE level following a number of intense meetings.

This was an important moment in my life and served as the wake-up call I needed to stop messing around. Till this day I am extremely grateful that the decision was made in my favour. I had finally found something that I liked, something that I could pursue and work towards. From that moment on I knew I had to change my behaviour and be less defiant.

At GCSE level, biology was my strongest science subject but in college my passion and preference shifted to chemistry. I chose to stick with chemistry which I am extremely glad for. Throughout school and college I am lucky to have had a total of six chemistry teachers all of whom were amazing. I am also very lucky to have had good relationships with each one which made me enjoy the subject a lot more. I hadn't realised until I was older just what impact a good teacher can have on you, on how you feel about a subject which in turn shapes and helps to determine your outcome. This does not mean teachers who are good at teaching, but teachers that are understanding, open and relatable who - like mine - sincerely care about you, your education and your future.