Sitikon Charoenkajonkul Thai, due to graduate July 2018
MSc Human Resource Management
Studying in a foreign country can be a roller-coaster, when you started—you go slowly, but then again time can flies by so quick you and won’t even notice. Southampton can become one of your best memories that you will cherish for the rest of your life.
Why did you choose to study at the University of Southampton?
The University of Southampton fits into many criteria for my school of choice. The university is a part of Russell group which is renowned internationally for the outstanding research and education which narrowed my decision. This is coupled with the rich multi-cultural atmosphere around the campus and the city. The transportation and university facilities are readily available and convenient. The location of the city is perfect for travelling to London or around the south. Lastly, the weather is great as it is one of the warmest and sunniest cities in the UK.
What were your first impressions of the University of Southampton?
My very first impression was the sunny weather and the greenery that the Highfield campus offers. While many international students may experience the culture shock, instead I felt peaceful and excited when I stepped into the university. The people around the university and even the local is friendly enough to help me adjust to the new environment.
What do you enjoy the most about living in Southampton?
Southampton is a vibrant city that is not too busy or quiet. The city features the variety of attractions and events year round which I certainly enjoy. There are the variety of food venues on Burgess Road which is five a minutes’ walk away, or you can take a bus to Portswood or city centre which has plenty more things to do. What I enjoyed most was the walk around Southampton Common which is a large open space near Highfield and Avenue Campus. I also enjoy walking around the Riverside Park which is near my university accommodation as well. The Piazza which is the largest food court in Highfield campus is one of my favourite place to eat as there are plenty of spaces available and the food was also nice. The Arlott bar is also a good hanging out space where I can socialise with my friends or catching up my assignments.
What is your favourite spot on campus?
The Piazza and Hartley library is my second home.
What has been your proudest accomplishment while you were in Southampton?
My proudest accomplishment has to be my voluntary project with the International office to create and publicize a campaign to attract the Thai Undergraduate and Postgraduate students to study at the University of Southampton. It was the very first project that allows me to step out of my comfort zone and fully utilised my skills. The project also gave me an opportunity to work professionally in an international setting and broaden my project management, networking, marketing, and recruitment skills which surely will come in handy when I graduated and transitioned into the Business world.
Would you recommend the University of Southampton to students from your home country?
I believe that the University of Southampton is a great place to study, I am happy to say that I am satisfied with my experience. I would definitely recommend the university to students back home.
Many Thai students may usually feel uneasy when they are coming to the foreign country for the first time. Some may feel that they could not adjust and think that the culture would be the barrier that prevents them from having a similar lifestyle back home. However, Southampton has a tight-knitted Thai community which helps the new batch of students each year. I myself have been helped and looked after by the PhD students and last year masters’ students.
Some Thais might want to challenge themselves (i.e. improving English communication) by avoiding the engagement with other Thais as possible, but at least they will know that there will always be people that can support them.
What will you do with your degree after you have finished your studies?
With my degree, I hope to get a job in HR, Recruitment or Consulting. I am happy with the grades I have achieved and the extracurricular activities I have done. Therefore, receiving my degree will definitely help me to start my dream career.
Do you have any stories about your time in Southampton or a happy memory you want to share?
While studying can be very stressful, the amount of support I received from my peers and lecturers have been a remedy for me. I have met amazing people and become friends with them, and surely we will be mates for a long time.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
If you have never been abroad before, I am sure Southampton will treat you kindly. Studying in a foreign country can be a roller-coaster, when you started—you go slowly, but then again time can flies by so quick you and won’t even notice. So, I give my advice here and now, “Be free, be open, and enjoy every minute you are here”. Southampton can become one of your best memories that you will cherish for the rest of your life.