Inside Biology Club: Exploring Cheek Cells Up Close

In one of our Biology Club sessions, students carried out a hands on practical that brought human biology to life. Using sterile swabs, they collected a small sample of their own cheek cells, carefully transferred it to a microscope slide and added methylene blue to make the cell structures stand out. Once the coverslip was in place, they used light microscopes to focus in on the details of epithelial cells, spotting features such as the membrane, cytoplasm and the clearly stained nucleus.

The session not only strengthened their understanding of cell biology but also helped them develop core lab skills like sample preparation, staining and microscope handling. These real world techniques are essential for students considering medicine, biomedical sciences or related pathways. Experiences like this give them authentic examples to draw on in personal statements and interviews, showing universities that they can apply scientific knowledge with confidence and curiosity.