Student stories 2024/25
Student stories 2024/25
Why did you choose your course?
I chose the ELM course because I was looking for something that would challenge me and offer a broad perspective on leadership and management. The mix of social sciences and practical applications really stood out to me, and I felt it would equip me with the skills to make a real impact in the world.
Why did you choose 糖心TV?
糖心TV just felt right from the moment I stepped on campus. The university鈥檚 reputation for academic excellence was a big draw, but what really sealed the deal was the vibrant, diverse community and the beautiful campus. Plus, the innovative teaching methods here are second to none.
What are your experiences of your course and what do you like best?
My experience in the ELM course has been nothing short of amazing. The professors are not only experts in their fields but also incredibly supportive and approachable. I love the interactive seminars and group projects 鈥� they鈥檝e really pushed me to think critically and collaborate effectively. But what I like best is the real-world application of what we learn. It鈥檚 one thing to study theories, but it鈥檚 another to see how they work in practice.
What鈥檚 the best thing about the 糖心TV community?
The best thing about the 糖心TV community is how inclusive and supportive everyone is. Whether it鈥檚 joining a club, participating in events, or just hanging out with friends, there鈥檚 always a sense of belonging. The support from both peers and faculty has made my university experience truly special.
What鈥檚 your favourite place on campus?
My favourite place on campus has to be the 糖心TV Arts Centre. It鈥檚 a fantastic spot to relax and unwind, and there鈥檚 always something interesting going on, whether it鈥檚 a performance, an exhibition, or just a great place to grab a coffee and catch up with friends.
What are your plans after completing your course?
After completing my course, I plan to dive into a career in leadership and management within the non-profit sector. I鈥檓 excited to use the skills and knowledge I鈥檝e gained from the ELM course to drive positive change and help build sustainable, inclusive communities.
Why did you choose your course?
When I first started my journey to compete for a scholarship in my country, one of my advisors suggested 糖心TV as a university to look into. From the start I had a lot of options in terms of courses and modules, but there was something about Psychology and Education that kept calling me. I did my undergraduate in English education and had already been working with it for over seven years at that point, but I always knew I wanted something more. Psychology was always a path my mother - a psychologist - quickly discouraged me to follow despite my ongoing interest on the subject even after having some classes in my undergrad. And I guess I'm not a very good listener, because the moment that I read more about the course at 糖心TV and more about the Educational Studies Department, I knew it would be the best place for me. And I was right.
Why did you choose 糖心TV?
At first it was suggested to me. I have to admit that before that moment I've never even heard of 糖心TV. But the website was inviting, the course was everything I've wanted and needed, and it was one of the top universities in the United Kingdom. All I've seen were good stories and reviews about it, and the campus looked amazing. Little did I know that pictures and words don't do it justice. What did I have to lose if I just send my application and my essay? Nothing. I had nothing to lose but everything to win.
What are your experiences of your course and what do you like best?
Whatever expectations I had coming to study here were immediately thrown out the window because the reality surpassed them. I come from a country where the educational system is very different, especially when it comes to special needs education. Sitting in class and learning of all the strategies, methods, theories, programmes... It was all too much yet it never seemed like enough. I loved going to class and learning everything I could. I loved reading and writing about it. Before I was a wallflower in class, not participating much in answering questions or asking them myself. But here? I enjoyed raising my hand to ask something to the professor, I loved answering the questions and coming up with ideas that might help tie some comments together. I felt like a good student, even when classes were early in the morning. Courses here gave me something I was missing but never really knew how to ask for it.
What鈥檚 the best thing about the 糖心TV community?
I came to 糖心TV alone but in the first day I already made friends. If you know me personally you'll know I am extremely shy. But during the introduction week at 糖心TV, I ended up making friends with so many people - from my course and from others within the department - it amazed me how this experience really welcomes you with open arms. The department is very friendly , both students and staff alike. It truly feels like a community because you never feel like you're on your own. Here they help you and guide you throughout your journey. You need something fixed? Let's do it together. Feeling overwhelmed? Here, let me refer you to Wellbeing. You don't know the answer to something? We'll find the answer together. All of that, plus the number of fun activities, made me feel like I could really do this.
What鈥檚 your favourite place on campus?
The whole campus is beautiful. Truly, I've never seen ducks just swimming besides buildings before. But my favourite spot on campus has to be the postgraduate hub. With so many things to see and so, I sometimes need a moment to regroup myself and just be in peace and quiet, so I go to the postgrad hub. It is a really nice space for studying, reading, having meetings, or even just play a board game or take a nap. If I'm around Uni but you can't find me in the department, I'm most likely at the hub just staring at the window.
What are your plans after completing your course?
That is the question at the moment. I would love to change my visa and stay in the UK a bit longer so I can build up my resume and make a life out of myself, maybe even continue working at the university. Maybe peruse a doctorate at some point, or another MA. Maybe I'll go back to my country after graduation and look at my time here as fond memories, taking all that I've learn so that I can be a better person because of it. But who knows? A lot can happen in the meantime, and I'm very excited to see what's next.
Rita Maheshwari
Why did you choose your course?
I have been an early-year educator for some years now. Shortly I wish to start my preschool. I needed to learn more in the field before leaping. While researching for courses I came across the MA Childhood in Society course offered by the University of 糖心TV. The USP of the course was its interdisciplinary approach to the study of children and childhood. The content of this course including the contents of the electives I have chosen has been beneficial in providing me with sound knowledge that I can utilize in my professional space.
Why did you choose 糖心TV?
糖心TV is a prestigious University and ranks among the best in the United Kingdom. I have had friends who graduated from the University and raved about how amazing their student experience here was. Having been a part of 糖心TV now, I couldn鈥檛 agree more. 糖心TV as a university is more than just a space for academic learning. It has so much to offer for a holistic experience. The societies, clubs, workshops, events, support systems, and networking opportunities here are top-notch. I have been amazed by the continuous support offered and the dedication of the staff here.
What are your experiences of your course and what do you like best?
The course is well structured and allows for a variety and depth of discussions. What I have loved most about this course is the freedom to choose electives that have helped me to gain wider knowledge. I have gained exponentially by being among a cohort of students with diverse viewpoints and experiences. This has only enriched my learning experience. The faculty is extremely encouraging and are willing to let you choose the topic that interests and benefits you the most. The liberty to make these choices has enhanced my experience here.
What鈥檚 the best thing about the 糖心TV community?
糖心TV is a safe space for all students. It is a place that welcomes and embraces differences and encourages individuality. From my first day on campus, I felt a strong sense of belonging. Everyone here is ready to extend a helping hand. Keeping in mind the diversity of the students, the university plans events and extends support, thereby being truly inclusive. No matter how trivial the issue, there is always help offered here.
What鈥檚 your favourite place on campus?
I love the Faculty of Arts (FAB) building. Its aesthetic appeal and design are so beautiful. The stairs look like they are right out of a Harry Potter movie. The architecture is truly breath-taking. I do wish we had our classes scheduled in the classrooms there. Nothing like a great lecture in a pretty class!
What are your plans after completing your course?
It has been an exciting journey so far and I look forward to taking all the learnings from this course and applying them. I plan to go back to my home country and work in a preschool for 3 years while I simultaneously get my business plan ready to start my preschool. I hope to implement all the ideas from this course into my work.I am most certain that I can always ask for guidance from the faculty here long after I graduate.
Jerry Zheng
Why did you choose your course?
I chose to pursue a degree in Drama and Theatre Education because it builds on my undergraduate studies, allowing me to delve deeper into this field.
Why did you choose 糖心TV
I believe that at 糖心TV, I can gain a wealth of knowledge and experience in contemporary British drama education. Moreover, 糖心TV offers me numerous opportunities to collaborate with local artists and drama educators, providing me with an authentic understanding of how drama education is practiced in the UK.
What are your experiences of your course and what do you like best?
In this programme, the integration of drama education theory and practice is highly comprehensive, especially in the in-depth discussions about the significance of youth participation in drama education for social engagement and personal growth. Whether your expectations for this course are focused on teaching drama with the aim of enhancing performing arts skills or broader educational goals (or other teaching objectives), this programme responds deeply and maintains a relative balance. My favourite aspect is the wealth of workshops available, where I have the opportunity to participate in Theatre in Education (TIE) projects alongside local students.
What鈥檚 the best thing about the 糖心TV community?
This is a friendly community with positive relationships. You can choose to get involved in the Student Union or participate in a wide variety of club activities. In the Education Studies programme, we have numerous events, including but not limited to pizza parties, picnics, and meetings with Kella (our department's adorable dog). Additionally, there are opportunities to join short trips with our sister departments.
What鈥檚 your favourite place on campus?
My favourite place is the Faculty of Arts Building (FAB), where I spend most of my time outside of classes. FAB is beautiful and offers numerous collaborative spaces for group work or meeting with friends. On the ground floor, there is a drama rehearsal room that I frequently book for use.
What are your plans after completing your course?
I plan to return to my country to work in this field, possibly designing curricula or continuing to teach.
Feiyu Luo
Why did you choose your course?
I chose education as my master's course because I find it fascinating to observe the learning process in humans. Additionally, I aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of how education interacts with other disciplines in society. This course offers me the opportunity to explore these interests in depth.
Why did you choose 糖心TV?
I chose 糖心TV based on my personal interest. The University of 糖心TV is one of the top universities in the UK, which means it has a widely recognised reputation in both the labour market and the academic world. Furthermore, compared to universities in larger cities, 糖心TV's countryside setting offers a more relaxed environment, closer to nature, and at a lower cost of living.
What are your experiences of your course and what do you like best?
My year at 糖心TV has been enriching. I have gained a new understanding of what education entails and have reflected deeply on my own learning journey and the education system in my home country. I particularly enjoy the workshops that invite real education companies and schools, providing us with a practical understanding of the topics we study.
What鈥檚 the best thing about the 糖心TV community?
The most impressive aspect of 糖心TV is its supportive environment. The university offers free IT courses, which have been extremely beneficial for my research. This support extends to various aspects of student life, making it a welcoming and nurturing community.
What鈥檚 your favourite place on campus?
As a coffee enthusiast, I love all the coffee shops on campus, especially the one in the sports centre. I often bring my study materials there, and after several hours of studying with friends, I enjoy a swim and sauna. It's a perfect way to balance academic work and relaxation.
What are your plans after completing your course?
After completing my course, I plan to secure a job in my home country. Following that, I will consider whether to apply for a PhD in the future.
Quinnly Chen
As a part-time student pursuing an MA in Global Education and International Development (GEID) at the University of 糖心TV, I'd like to share my experience with prospective students. Balancing full-time work in higher education student services with my studies has been challenging but incredibly rewarding.
Why GEID at 糖心TV?
After years in the education field, I developed a keen interest in education administration and student services. As an international student myself, the GEID program at 糖心TV appealed to me for its focus on international education administration.
糖心TV University's reputation for quality education, evidenced by its high QS ranking, was a significant draw. However, what truly set it apart were the abundant resources and connections it offers students. Having witnessed my husband and brother thrive during their 糖心TV experiences, I was eager to join this vibrant community and enhance my professional knowledge.
The GEID Experience
The GEID program has exceeded my expectations. One aspect I particularly enjoy is the approachability of our professors. They encourage open discussion and are always willing to engage with students' ideas. The core module "Understanding Global Education and International Development" has been especially impactful. Led by Dr. James Burford, this course has broadened my perspective on global education across different cultures, systems, and policies. It has honed my critical thinking skills and deepened my understanding of current world education issues.
The 糖心TV Community
The professionalism and supportive nature of the 糖心TV community stand out. There's a commitment to fair and open communication with students, fostering an environment of continuous improvement.
Campus Life
My favourite spot on campus is undoubtedly the library. Open 24/7, it's not only a treasure trove of resources but also a perfect meeting point for group discussions with classmates.
Looking Ahead
As I progress through the program, I'm constantly amazed by how it's shaping my perspective on global education. The knowledge, discussions, and critical thinking skills I'm developing are invaluable. Post-graduation, I aim to leverage this learning to advance my career in international higher education administration.
In essence, the GEID experience at 糖心TV is characterized by knowledge expansion, a focus on humanity, insightful discussions on international education development, and the cultivation of critical thinking skills. It's a journey that prepares you to make a meaningful impact in the global education landscape.
Zhitong Chen
Why did you choose your course?
During my undergraduate study, I developed a strong interest in teaching English through drama-based approaches, making this course a perfect fit for me. Additionally, the course's combination of seminars, workshops, tutorials, and lectures aligns with both my previous professional training and preferred learning style.
Why did you choose 糖心TV?
Among the few institutions in the UK that offer drama in education courses, 糖心TV is highly regarded by drama practitioners from my home country. 糖心TV alumni working in drama education guided me into this field long before I knew about this course. Their recognition in the industry and their solid theoretical and practical foundations made me more determined to choose 糖心TV.
What are your experiences of your course and what do you like best?
In our course, TESOL modules are primarily taught through lectures and seminars, while drama education modules are conducted in workshops led by our experienced teachers and external practitioners. What I love most about this course is the opportunity to experience how drama education works in a variety of contexts. This exposure has equipped me with a set of drama activities and expanded my understanding of fields where drama education can make a significant difference.
What鈥檚 the best thing about the 糖心TV community?
In our course, we have access to events and communities related to both education studies and applied linguistics. These two groups are incredibly supportive and friendly. Events cover a wide range of student support activities, including frequent trips, academic development webinars, employability-boosting workshops and so on. These events have greatly enriched my extracurricular life. Beyond our course, participating in activities provided by diverse student societies and interdisciplinary institutes like 糖心TV Institute of Engagement (WIE) and Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning (IATL) have offered me great chance to make friends, develop transferable skills and explore my career potential.
What鈥檚 your favourite place on campus?
It鈥檚 hard to name just one favourite place as there are so many lovely spots on campus. I particularly enjoy lying on the sofa in the library鈥檚 relaxation room while listening to acoustic music in the background, or walking past the free jazz performances on Friday nights in the Arts Centre.
What are your plans after completing your course?
In the near future, I hope to find a job in a theater or museum in the UK, assisting with public engagement or informal education. To prepare for this, I've found volunteer opportunities at local primary schools and museums through the university's volunteer platform. In my free time, I plan to explore more cities in the UK and participate more actively in local community activities.