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Why ÐÂÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹û

There are multiple reasons I chose ÐÂÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹û for my studies. A major reason was that I couldn't choose between marine biology and oceanography, so by doing a course that allowed me options that included both was a great opportunity to learn more information about both career paths before making a final decision. I also considered the facilities on offer for my chosen studies and was drawn by the university's very own research vessel, The Prince Madog. Secondly, the active research the university puts out means that they are up to date in research matters.

I lived in Brighton for a few months prior to considering ÐÂÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹û as a university. During that time, I realise that I am a small-town person and ÐÂÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹û seemed to offer a smaller town, rural way of life with a better sense of community than one finds in bigger cities. Furthermore, the location is highly accessible to many places suitable for field excursions which enrich the university experience. The high ranking of student satisfaction appealed to me as so many students would not have indicated this level of satisfaction if it were not the case.

Most beautiful thing about being an International Student at ÐÂÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹û

The support system (examples include mental health advisors, personal tutors and wellbeing buddies), is amazing, it really helped me to adjust to being in a new place that is so different to what I had experienced in growing up in Namibia. It is great to be able to explore an area rich in history and with a wonderful natural environment. With ÐÂÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹û being a relatively small town, it's easy to get to know the area and to start to feel like a local. The quality of education and enthusiastic lectures have made me look forward to learning. When seeing the university or the professors mentioned in journal articles, I have a sense of pride and realise that they are passionate about what they are doing. The university has allowed me to meet like minded peole who are equally fervent about the environment which I enjoy and find it compelling to study deeper.

The most difficult thing about being an International Student

The thing I struggled with the most was the culture shock. Even though I am from an English speaking third world country, it was still an overwhelming experience. It was things like not having products or packaging you are used to on the grocery shelves. Nothing was familiar, it took me a while to understand why I felt unsettled in grocery stores. The distance from my world is huge, and difficult to handle especially when most students travel home during the short holidays, but I must stay in ÐÂÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹û, which changes when there are not so many students about. I also find relating childhood experiences raises eyebrows because living in an arid desert is quite different to what my colleagues experienced during their childhood.

Clubs and Societies

I am an active member of the Art Society and for the upcoming year I will be their secretary. It is a great society to engage with other creative people. I enjoy expressing myself in a safe environment. I am also a casual member of the swimming society. I go to training  sessions with the team but swim in a separate lane, giving me the freedom to train at a slower pace than the team but still swim which I enjoy doing.

What social activities do you enjoy

In terms of social activities, I enjoy meeting friends at one of the many local coffee shops or going on a picnic. Several societies have regular social events which has enabled me to meet new people from a variety of courses and places. In addition, I enjoy activities such as 'Walk and Talk' where I can get out and have some fresh air.

Advice for new International students

One of the most important things would be to ask for help if you need it. Do this before the situation gets too bad, don't just shrug it off. The help can range from support for mental health, financial or study support. All students should take advantage of the clubs and societies, it's a great way to explore new activities and meet new people. There is a wide amount of options for students to try out which means that they can explore new activities at little to no cost. It's also a means to meet people from different courses. There are lots of places to explore in the area, everything from the mountains of Snowdonia to the rich history of the Welsh slate.