Much more reasonable than expected

I am an international student studying Zoology, which is in the Department of Life Sciences at Whitelands College, a ten-minute walk from the main campus. The program explores various aspects of the animal kingdom, from cell biology and evolution to physiology and ecology. I really enjoy the practical aspect of the course. Through lectures and practicals, lecturers are able to help you shape the skills necessary in a variety of fields. Although the university is based in London, the course takes field trips to locations outside of London and to Wales. There is also an optional field course in South Africa.

I chose to apply to university in the UK on a whim. I had been studying at a community college in the US for two years, which felt like it was going nowhere. I applied to a few schools around London and ultimately chose Roehampton due to its parklands campus and proximity to Richmond Park.

I lived in the dorms for my first year where I met amazing people who became some of my best friends and housemates. Everyone was welcoming and friendly and very patiently taught me how to ride buses and trains! I now live in a house off-campus, in Putney, with a few people a lived in the dorms during my first year. Not only are the campus grounds lovely, but the university is also only a short bus ride from the neighborhoods of Putney, Barnes, and Sheen, which offer shopping as well as a variety of delicious restaurants and cafes. Plus, it’s easy to travel into Central London once you’ve got the hang of public transport!

I really feel like I have been able to build professional relationships with my tutors and lecturers, who are always more than willing to support students with research ideas, grant writing, feedback, and anything else academic. I am happy I chose Roehampton as it has provided a platform for me to develop professionally and academically. I have found the cost of university and living to be much more reasonable than expected, partly due to having a part-time job that I use to offset living expenses. One of the best things about living in London is that it is a cultural hub as well as a scientific hub. It is home to organizations such as ZSL London, the Royal Society of Biology, and many more. With help from the university, it’s easy to get involved with these organizations and many more.
 

- Brooklynn