AN EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER
Moving to another country is, at first, both scary and exciting. You’re moving away from who and what you know. But it is an experience like no other, and one that everyone should have if they get the opportunity. I’m studying at the University of Kent, which is in the historic Canterbury, only about a two hour bus ride from London. There is a lot of wonderful history to explore in the city centre, as well as many shops and pubs. It’s not that far from different beautiful coastal towns like Whitstable and Dover. There is also a ferry from Dover to Calais in France that is extremely cheap for foot passengers, so it’s easy to go exploring in your spare time. The university itself is fantastic as well. The graduate student accommodations are excellent, at Woolf College you get your own bathroom which is probably my favourite part! There are lots of places to eat, drink, and socialize on campus so you never have to go far. And of course, there are lots of places to study, so you’ll never have to fight for a study area. I’m studying International Relations, and one of my favourite things about it so far is the diversity among the professors and the students. Everyone has different backgrounds and brings different perspectives to the classes, which makes it more rewarding. While it is always more expensive to be an international student, you definitely get your moneys’ worth in education. There are also services to help international students find part time jobs if you need one. Across The Pond helped me to figure out if going to another country to do my Master's was for me. They help with the planning, the actual application, and the steps that it will take you to move to another country. The support they give you, especially with the visa applications, is invaluable. I’m not sure I would have even bothered to apply if it wasn’t for them! Once you get to the university though, it is up to you to make the most of it. If I could give one piece of advice to prospective students that are about to go aboard, I would say make sure you attend every welcome event that you can and make sure to get involved.
A FRIENDLY, CREATIVE AND WELCOMING COMMUNITY
Why Falmouth?
Having visited Falmouth a few times before coming to Falmouth University, I knew that I loved the town. There is such a friendly, creative and welcoming community at both the University and in Falmouth, it was an easy choice.
What is the most difficult thing about being an international student?
Because I lived in England before coming to Falmouth, I haven’t missed home any more than usual. I’m just really excited to be here!
How have you found the course?
In just the first 2 months of my course, I have learned so much - not just about textiles but about how I work and develop ideas. Even though it has been a lot of information and work in a short space of time, I’ve felt excited about the new opportunities to create. The tutors and technicians have been so helpful, supportive and motivating right from the beginning.
The Academic School?
The library has been the most lovely resource. It is all too easy to get lost exploring the journal collections!
What social activities do you enjoy?
My friends and I have started a Sunday night dinner club. The discussion is usually focused on everyone’s course work, and it’s nice to hear about other courses. In the end, we are all influenced by each other.
What’s the best thing about living in Falmouth?
Being next to the sea. I love being able to walk to the beach whenever I please, it’s such a treat!
What will you miss most about Falmouth?
The friendly and welcoming atmosphere - of the town and the university.
Has the University been supportive?
Yes. The international office has been so helpful and lovely. When I was sorting out my visa from Canada, they were there to answer any questions that I had (there were quite a few).
The future?
Now that I’m here, I don’t want to leave! I’d love to go onto an MA after this.
THE SUPPORT I RECEIVED AS A FOREIGN STUDENT WAS AMAZING
The appeal of the city of Edinburgh spoke to me. I studied abroad while attending a university in Philadelphia, hoping to gain a broader horizon. While on exchange, I noticed just how different UK universities are and found I preferred them. I chose to transfer from my American university to study at Edinburgh Napier University for the practical/work-related skills they offered, the one-to-one sessions I was able to have with my lecturers, and for the warm environment the University provided.
What I love about Edinburgh Napier are the facilities available to my course. I appreciate the camera gear and studios available to film students, we are encouraged to use them freely and routinely. The support I received as a foreign student was amazing - I received help about finding flats, finding a doctor or a bank, and have attended academic help sessions where I was taught how to reach British writing standards.
Edinburgh is a university city through and through. I felt at home the moment I landed, thanks to finding it easy to make friends. There's so many places to see and activities to take part in in Edinburgh. Because I come from a big city, I found getting around Edinburgh pretty easy. Still, I found it difficult to adjust to living on my own for the first time.
Because there's so much to keep busy with in Edinburgh though, between university and work and volunteering, I found it easy to stay motivated. Each job or study related opportunity is a chance to meet new people and to explore new parts of the city.
One day, I plan to own a production company where I can direct my own films. Edinburgh Napier has allowed me to continually create films and work with new people, which is exactly what I need to suit my career plans.
I'm able to use industry-standard technology and editing labs. I love being able to use the equipment so much that I'm considering doing my masters at Edinburgh Napier University.
LIFE CHANGING
My experience studying in the UK has been life changing, and Across The Pond was a huge help in making it happen. From applications to visas and all of the rest they made my experience run so smoothly - I can't imagine applying without them. Durham University has been incredible so far. With a 1,000 year old Castle and Cathedral as part of the University, you really can't lose. Doing a Masters in the UK means less class time, which gives you the freedom to study on your own schedule. This means that you have to be more proactive, but if you take advantage of the experience you can really get a lot out of it.
The long breaks built in to the UK university schedule also leaves lots of time for traveling. I have had the opportunity to explore a lot of the UK and Scotland, and am about to depart on the trip to Ireland. Travel in the UK is affordable and helps provide a rewarding extra curricular experience to add to your studies. The friendships I have made here will last a lifetime as will the memories. In the end, studying in the UK gives you so much more than a degree, and I would suggest it to anyone.
ABERYSTWYTH IS A LOVELY TOWN WITH EVEN LOVELIER PEOPLE
I chose to study at Aberystwyth University because it is a partner with my home University. Their drama program is well reputed and offers applied theatre courses which my home University did not. The modules I have taken this term are wonderful and the department and its staff have all been welcoming and accomodating. The University is great, the diversity and amount of extra curricular activities is fantastic, there is always something for everyone! The facilities are up to date and well kept and the faculties are always prompt to respond to any queries you have. Aberystwyth is a lovely town with even lovelier people. Everything is easily accessible with plenty to explore and a great nightlife. I would absolutely recommend Aberystwyth University to anyone who is considering coming here, I would especially recommend it to my fellow theatre students at my home University to come and study abroad here.
