What made you decide to study in the UK?
The Southampton programme I chose provides a good compromise between costs, a good degree, and an opportunity to live in and experience a UK university.
What were you anxious about before coming to Southampton?
Living on my own in a differing cultural environment for the first time was my main concern, while ensuring that my daily living responsibilities did not get in the way of achieving my academic best. However, the support from my family and peers allowed me to achieve what I needed to succeed.
What is it like studying here?
The workloads are manageable as long as you keep on top of them. At Southampton, there is always something going on as there are clubs, societies, and events that run virtually every day.
How would you describe the facilities and resources available to you?
The facilities at Southampton are really impressive as there are great study spaces are always available to students (with fantastic office chairs). There are also great engineering facilities in our workshops with quality 3D printers, laser cutters, soldering stations, and anything else we may need to see a project to its completion.
What have been your Southampton ‘highlights’ (best experiences) so far?
My best experiences have been going out with friends to explore the city, visiting the enormous parks, eating at the many food places on offer, and the great historical monuments and memorials littered about the city.
How has your time at Southampton helped you to grow as a person?
Aside from the academic aspects, my time in Southampton has taught me to deal with people in a way I have never needed to before, in group projects and with housemates. I am much better at communicating and listening to others now.
What are you enjoying most about your course?
I enjoy the ability to explore my passions and interests in an environment that allows them to be realised and executed in the best ways possible.
Do you have the opportunity to study modules outside your core subject area?
Taking the ‘engineering management’ module allowed me to do a little less “math” and a little more “engineering,” learning about the humans behind the machines and how it all fits into the wider world (such as with regards to finance) is a breath of fresh air.
Did you/do you stay in University accommodation?
I rent privately with friends I made on the Malaysian campus and travelled to the UK with.
What is the city of Southampton like to live in?
Southampton is a charming city with lots of history. In a way, it is both quaint and quiet but also full of energy because of its student population. It is the best of both worlds, allowing work and play to flourish when we need it to.
What advice would you give to students coming to the UK?
Build good money habits that at least let you know if you really can afford those shiny new headphones. Also, learn to manage your time well; university life is a constant juggling of a million priorities; expect to drop the ball a couple of times.
What do you feel you gained by studying in the UK?
Independence, a little more maturity, and being able to experience a whole new country and its culture. This experience has given me new perspectives and expanded my worldview.
Do you know what you will be doing after graduating with your degree?
I haven’t thought about it fully yet. I will see where the hard work I put in takes me.
