Fangyuan Peng BSc Economics and Finance

Fangyuan Peng  is a partner student who joined the University of Southampton in 2021 to study BSc Economics and Finance as part of the undergraduate 2+2 programme with Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics (JUFE).

Choosing the University of Southampton can greatly broaden our future study options and help us to learn more about appreciating other cultures and gain a greater understanding of the world.

• What course did you study, and what did you like most about it?

I was studied the second – third year majored in economics&finance ,we have serval practice-related course such as Portfolio Theory and Financial Markets, Econometrics with Big Data, Industrial Economics. The course I like most is the Portfolio Theory and Financial Markets.

• Why did you choose the University of Southampton over other international options?

There are basically 2 reasons, the first one is the University of Southampton is one of the most prestigious universities and I believed that choose Soton is a valuable chance for me to reach the most advanced theories in the field of economics.

• Are there any challenges you faced while studying and living in the UK?

Yes, there are. At first, I have faced with some language barriers especially not too sure about the structure and the grammar that essay requires.

• Was there anything unexpected about living in the UK? Were there any challenges or surprises you faced?

Yes, that you have to waved to send signals for drivers to stop in the bus steps. A funny story: I didn’t know it at first so I missed one bus and can’t arrive the class on time.

• Were there any pleasant surprises?

Yes, I have no idea that the Tiramisu in UK is absolutely delicious! I do like the dessert in the UK!

• Do you have any advice for students before they arrive or when they first arrive in the UK? What tips would you give to other international students planning to study at the University of Southampton?

Better prepared, thinking more about how to keep a good balanced with study and life. And learn to use the resource of the Soton, such as the Soton have a very helpful employment centre, If you have any doubt wanting for advice about CV, you can simply book one slot on the Uni website and get a professional advice.

• How did the University of Southampton and the International Office help in enhancing your study experience in the UK?

The international office helps me a lot during my study and life, not only it provides many suggestions and particle classes such as academic writing for us, but also provides a very nice platform for us to make friends.

• Did you join any communities or social clubs? What do you recommend?

Yes, I have joined a communities called global lounge, which is under the International Office, I have made so many friends there and increase my cultural sensitivity a lot. I have benefited from it a lot.

• To make it a true international experience, we encourage students to make friends with fellow students from many different backgrounds and nationalities. Tell us about a time you went out of your comfort zone and made friends with other nationalities?

I have made so many friends with other nationalities so far, People in Soton are so friendly and helpful. Once, I was at the class but forget to download the PPT before while my iPad can’t connect to the Wifi, and luckily there is a classmate sitting next to me. So I asked her bravely whether she could airdrop the PPT to me, she said “of course”, since then We added each other Instagram and became good friend with each other.

• Would you recommend studying at Southampton to other potential international students?

Yes, I strongly recommend choosing the University of Southampton, going to Southampton to study is one of the rightest decisions I have ever made. And I have realised that stepping outside of our comfort zone is one of the things that makes the whole experience so valuable and worthwhile. Choosing the University of Southampton can greatly broaden our future study options and help us to learn more about appreciating other cultures and gain a greater understanding of the world.