Nguyen Thi Bao Ngan MSc Global Enterprise and Entrepreneurship (now MSc Entrepreneurship and Management), 2017
Vietnamese
The course was well blended of theory and practical experiences. I got to solve real case issues and developed a business plan for a social enterprise company in the region.
What were your first impressions of the University of Southampton?
The vibrant and diversified atmosphere was exactly what I was looking for at an international university. There were so many international students standing there chatting, laughing, running or walking with the books in their hands. The Business School, on the other hand, also has peaceful places thanks to the open green areas and I can always find myself a hidden corner on a quiet day. Southampton is actually the best of both worlds.
It was the first time I've lived far away from home. Luckily the UK welcomed me with blazing sun and soon I felt so excited with the new environment and got used to the life here quite quickly. I actively made lots of new friends, especially international friends from class as well as other clubs or School events that I participated in. Now I have friends from Europe, Asia, Africa and South America and plan to visit them in their home country.
What were your Southampton 'highlights'?
During my time living in Southampton, I found the balance between studies and social life. The city's natural landscape and warm weather really kept me fresh and alive, even on a stressful day it could boost my mood. I found myself become much more energetic.
There was quite a lot of activities to fill my day with e.g. running in the park, cycling through the New Forest or just walking along the deck with some friends, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere during sunset. I really miss those happy moments while I'm recalling now.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
The course was well blended of theory and practical experiences. I got to solve real case issues and developed a business plan for a social enterprise company in the region. Also, my class was quite diversified with students coming from all over the world. We all shared new perspectives when looking at one problem. Therefore, we approached issues with a lot of creativity and excitement in every tutorial or group assignment.
What advice would you give to a student starting their degree at Southampton?
Be active, be curious and make new friends.