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Student experiences

We asked a number of current international students and recently returned alumni for some insight into their experiences while studying in the UK. Here are some responses from students on pre-university and career-based courses:
 


Ying-Ge Xing, China (A-levels)
Picture of student - Ying-Ge Xing

'I'm studying A-level mathematics, further mathematics, economics and physics, plus AS-level psychology and business studies. I'm also studying to improve my IELTS test score. It's important to get everything well organised and to work according to the time-schedule. The best thing about my course has been the small teaching groups - there are about seven students in each group, so each one can get more attention from the tutor. We can ask questions at any time during the lesson.

I want to go on to study engineering at a UK university. Hopefully then, after one or two years of work experience, I'll go back to my hometown to start my own career.'

 
 

Kenyetta Ventour, Grenada (BTEC National Diploma in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering)
Picture of student - Kenyetta Ventour
'I chose to study in the UK because I'm interested in motor vehicles and Formula One driving. On my course, we started by studying mainly electrical and a little mechanical engineering. There was a lot of theory work at the beginning, and we've also done some work on making components and learning to operate machines in the workshop. I hope to become an electrical engineer and I may go on to do an HND in Electrical Engineering. I'm not sure yet. Students who are thinking of coming to study in the UK need to be aware that they'll need to study hard, but hopefully later on it'll be worth it!'
 
 

Chen Wu, China (Business, Economics and Social Studies Foundation)
Picture of student - Chen Wu

'I had a fantastic experience on my foundation course. The further education college where I studied has links with many local universities – the programmes are well designed and lead to many study opportunities at degree level. My college provides a high level of support to international students, not only in academic fields but also at the international office, where staff help with all kinds of problems.'

'I went on to a study for a BA (Hons) Business Studies at Economics degree at a UK university, and then took an MSc in Finance and Economics at the same institution. I’m now working as the China Trade Assistant at the Manchester International Trade Centre – all thanks to my university foundation course.'

 
 

Wei Ji, China (HNC Professional Cookery with English)
Picture of student - Wei Ji

'I studied Chinese cookery for two years at Beijing Industry and Trade Technicians College (BITTC) then came to the UK because I’m interested in Western cookery and UK qualifications have the best reputation in the world. '

'In my first year, I spent 20 hours per week studying practical cookery skills in the morning and English in the afternoon. I’ve also been able to work part-time in a local inn as a kitchen assistant, which enables me to put what I'm learning at college into practice. My lecturers are top class – I think they're the best in the world. I would like to go on to study for an HND Culinary Arts with Management next. By the time the Olympic Games is staged in Beijing in 2008, I'll have the necessary knowledge and ability to open my own Western-style restaurant.'

 
 

Kyoungah OH, Korea (Diploma in Garden Design)
Picture of student - Kyoungah Oh
'I'm studying at a specialist agricultural college and it’s absolutely professional, especially in areas such as Horticulture, Agriculture, Floristry and Equine. My Garden and Landscape Design course is famous here in the UK. It includes Garden Design and Horticulture modules – we draw real gardens and also study landscapes as well as garden design. If you want a practical study programme, this course will be very good, and if you have a talent for design or an architectural sense, you’ll also find something here to satisfy you. When I go back Korea, I want open a garden design office and I believe that my study will help me very much.'
 
 

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