Until I joined the University of Bristol, I didn't really know much about student politics. Based on what I had seen of student politics on the internet, I envisioned it being messy and suited to loud, hot-blooded people. It could not, however, be further from the reality.
Joining any university in the UK means automatic admission into the university’s Students’ Union – a place for meeting new people, joining societies and clubs and enjoying a drink every now and then.
While finishing my bachelor’s degree in engineering in Tehran, I decided to continue my education at the University of Warsaw and pursue a master’s in psychology. I chose Poland because of its high-quality international education programmes and its rich, cultural heritage. My interests include science, poetry, theatre and film and so I was excited to come to Poland and engage in those hobbies.
Today Times Higher Education Student has revealed the universities with the highest percentage of international students.
The UK is the most represented country, with 72 universities. London is the most represented city, with 16 universities, showing no signs that the English capital is slowing down as one of the most popular study destinations for international students.
While entering university through a foundation year is not really a big deal in the UK, some students will still feel ashamed of doing one.
Studying abroad was not a surprise for me, but it was a surprise that I ended up doing it in New Zealand. I first came here from China in 2014 when I was 17, and I am currently studying at the University of Auckland as a third-year student.
I’m writing this from North Carolina in the US. I’m visiting a number of universities on behalf of my school, and while I have been here it has struck me that there are a number of misconceptions in the UK about unconditional offers for university places for American universities, and the fact that more UK universities are now making unconditional offers.
Since the end of April, I have finished all my assessments for the year. What freedom, what joy. Added to the recent warm weather in London, life is pretty good right now.
However, the anxiety of job hunting is still nagging me.
I recently attended my first careers seminar. It was fairly small forum, with around 15 companies. Armed with a CV completed just days before, I strolled into the event venue. Clad in black and hair tied back, I did my best to look professional and put together.
I’ve experienced many unexpected hurdles while doing my PhD part-time and I’m sure that you will too. It is often difficult to keep your spirits high while doing a part-time PhD but the reward is substantial.
It is also helpful to hear about other people's challenges before you embark on your own journey.
Many universities have established international exchange programmes that enable students to spend time abroad for their studies.
I opted to take part in the Amity University 3 Continent Program, studying biotechnology. It has been created to promote experience of the education, social, cultural and research environment of three different continents (Asia, Europe and North America), each of which has its own areas of best practice.
When I embarked on a teacher training course at the University of East London seven months ago, I spent my days somewhere between feeling overwhelmed and excited by the prospect of being in a classroom with 30 students between 11 and 18 years old. I soon realised that I was looking forward to this challenge, despite its unpredictability. So, when my university presented me with the opportunity to teach prison-based learners in a London prison, I jumped at the chance.