The support I received was amazing
The appeal of the city of Edinburgh spoke to me. I studied abroad while attending a university in Philadelphia, hoping to gain a broader horizon. While on exchange, I noticed just how different UK universities are and found I preferred them. I chose to transfer from my American university to study at Edinburgh Napier University for the practical/work-related skills they offered, the one-to-one sessions I was able to have with my lecturers, and the warm environment the university provided.
What I love about Edinburgh Napier are the facilities available for my course. I appreciate the camera gear and studios available to film students; we are encouraged to use them freely and routinely. The support I received as a foreign student was amazing - I received help with finding flats, finding a doctor or a bank, and have attended academic help sessions where I was taught how to reach British writing standards.
Edinburgh is a university city through and through. I felt at home the moment I landed, thanks to finding it easy to make friends. There are so many places to see and activities in which to take part in Edinburgh. Because I come from a big city, I found getting around Edinburgh pretty easy. Still, I found it difficult to adjust to living on my own for the first time.
Because there's so much to keep busy with in Edinburgh, between university and work and volunteering, I found it easy to stay motivated. Each job or study-related opportunity is a chance to meet new people and explore new parts of the city.
One day, I plan to own a production company where I can direct my own films. Edinburgh Napier has allowed me to continually create films and work with new people, which is exactly what I need to suit my career plans.
I'm able to use industry-standard technology and editing labs. I love being able to use the equipment so much that I'm considering doing my master's at Edinburgh Napier University.
- Corrine
Provide its students with the best learning experience
I most appreciate Edinburgh Napier University’s commitment to provide its students with the best learning experience possible. This is exemplified in my mind by the layout of the libraries at Edinburgh Napier. When you walk into any of the campus libraries, you can see students hard at work on their studies in spaces that are designed to meet students’ needs first.
Of course, there are physical and electronic materials for students to access and check out, but the library is more than a storage location. There are group learning spaces that encourage collaborative work and the creation of new knowledge between students, solo workspaces that allow students to deeply engage with studies, and quiet spaces that help students hear their own thoughts as they process their ideas.
I chose the master's film course at Edinburgh Napier because of its commitment to preparing students for careers in the film industry. Many film-related master's programs focus almost exclusively on the film director’s practice as an art. Edinburgh Napier’s MA Film program is unique in that it trains filmmakers across several specialisms, more closely reflecting film-making as it is practiced in the industry.
In addition, the course modules are taught by tutors who are practitioners in their respective fields. In seminars and one-on-one tutorials, the tutors at Edinburgh Napier are adept at fielding student questions and pinpointing areas for improvement in student projects. Because filmmaking is largely an exercise in problem-solving, it is important to have tutors who have hands-on experience with what they are teaching.
I feel like Edinburgh is a bit like the wardrobe in Narnia or the TARDIS in Doctor Who – bigger on the inside than it is on the outside. For practical purposes, Edinburgh is a small city. I am surprised at how quickly I can get between radically different areas of the city. When I arrive in a different area (often just by walking for a few minutes) there is so much to do and to see that it feels like I’ve stumbled on a city within a city.
I came to the master's film course at Edinburgh Napier from a job working at a university as an occasional part-time lecturer of Film Appreciation. Before coming to the MA Film course, I envisioned earning the master's and going on to earn the MFA Advanced Film Practice and returning home to look for full-time teaching work. Now that I have spent some time working with my fellow students on collaborative projects, I can say that I will want to be more involved in day-to-day film production than I originally planned. I know that I still want to teach so I am currently exploring Creative Practice PhD programs in Scotland.
- Chris
The University of Essex is a fantastic place
Across the Pond was by far the best thing I have ever encountered. Without their help, I would not have been able to have achieved my dream of studying in the UK. They helped walk me through every step of the way and were so supportive and kind the entire time. My advisor was great at emailing me promptly and giving me all the advice she could. The webinars were super helpful and a great way for my parents to understand the process.
The University of Essex is a fantastic place and I am so happy to have chosen to go here. Within the first week, I was already completely settled in and had made several friends. Colchester is a quaint town with beautiful countryside and rich history that is very different from home in Florida but gives me an experience that would not be possible back home.
Essex seemed like the best choice for me since it is not too far from London, but not actually in London, so I am able to visit easily when I want to visit the city. The town size is slightly larger than my hometown but not overwhelming; plus they offered great courses for my major and gave me an experience that could not be matched in America. I absolutely love it here as there is always something happening on campus, plus I am surrounded by a population of international students allowing me to learn so much about other cultures as well.
I am so thankful for Across the Pond for helping me achieve my dreams.
- Mekenzie
Will enhance my employability
I chose the University of Exeter for a number of reasons: reputation, resources, size, and location. I was really interested in earning a master’s degree related to business management with some type of international component, but personally, was not inclined to earn an MBA. A one-year course studying International Management in England was perfectly suited to my goals and aligned with the direction I wanted to follow, especially in a foreign country. I felt that the classes covered in this program embodied the aspects of academia that I wanted to dive into while bringing in my previous knowledge and experience to build a versatile degree for my future.
Prior to studying at the Business School, I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Strategic and Corporate Communication with a minor in Psychology, from Chapman University in Southern California, USA. Following this, I worked as a Human Resource intern for six months at a global medical technology company specializing in non-invasive patient monitoring devices.
The University of Exeter is an exceptional institution with some of the best resources and the most incredible staff I have ever had the privilege to work with. I have benefitted greatly from both the lecturers' teaching styles and time spent with professors outside of class. I have particularly enjoyed the Global Career Management course led by Becky Kilsby and Claire Dinan. This course covers a broad range of practical information to specifically help students grow professionally in their careers, rather than just a course rich in academic information.
The University of Exeter’s campus is the perfect size, and with a central location, it’s easy to walk into the town centre for lunch and shopping with friends, or to catch a bus or train for a weekend getaway. The scenery is lovely, the older buildings give the atmosphere character, and walking around the hilly campus is a great way to stay in shape and catch a break from sitting in class.
Moving to Exeter from Southern California was not too much of a “culture shock” or challenge for me. I arrived overjoyed for this opportunity with a positive and open mindset and with a genuine willingness to adapt to a new environment. One of the biggest highlights has been the international feel of the university, which was exactly what I was looking for. Establishing amazing and lasting friendships with people from all over the world is something I will cherish forever and often reflect upon. I truly would have not had the same experience without branching out and building relationships with my peers.
My advice for students wishing to come to Exeter would be to do so with an adaptable and motivated spirit, taking time to truly immerse themselves in post-graduate life and establishing solid relationships from the very beginning. You need to be mentally and emotionally prepared to stay on track, using time and energy management skills, whilst learning how to be responsible and fully take care of yourself away from home. I would also recommend building a good rapport with your professors and to meet with them, even if just for a chat. The staff here are extraordinarily friendly, approachable, and welcoming to international students, use them as a resource!
I have made the decision to pursue my career back in the USA. Before I leave, I am thankful for the opportunity to travel through Europe and catch a break before beginning the next chapter. I absolutely believe that my international experience earning a postgraduate degree from a prestigious UK university will enhance my employability. Conducting a final business consulting project, connecting local businesses and stakeholders interested in the future of Exeter as a city, has also provided a hands-on, practical experience that will prepare me to effectively launch my career.
- Clairre
A friendly, creative and welcoming community
Having visited Falmouth a few times before coming to Falmouth University, I knew that I loved the town. There is such a friendly, creative and welcoming community at both the University and in Falmouth, it was an easy choice.
WHAT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT THING ABOUT BEING AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT?
Because I lived in England before coming to Falmouth, I haven’t missed home any more than usual. I’m just really excited to be here!
HOW HAVE YOU FOUND THE COURSE?
In just the first 2 months of my course, I have learned so much - not just about textiles but about how I work and develop ideas. Even though it has been a lot of information and work in a short space of time, I’ve felt excited about the new opportunities to create. The tutors and technicians have been so helpful, supportive and motivating right from the beginning.
THE ACADEMIC SCHOOL?
The library has been the most lovely resource. It is all too easy to get lost exploring the journal collections!
WHAT SOCIAL ACTIVITIES DO YOU ENJOY?
My friends and I have started a Sunday night dinner club. The discussion is usually focused on everyone’s course work, and it’s nice to hear about other courses. In the end, we are all influenced by each other.
WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT LIVING IN FALMOUTH?
Being next to the sea. I love being able to walk to the beach whenever I please, it’s such a treat!
WHAT WILL YOU MISS MOST ABOUT FALMOUTH?
The friendly and welcoming atmosphere - of the town and the university.
HAS THE UNIVERSITY BEEN SUPPORTIVE?
Yes. The international office has been so helpful and lovely. When I was sorting out my visa from Canada, they helped me fill out forms and were there to answer any questions that I had (there were quite a few).
THE FUTURE?
Now that I’m here, I don’t want to leave! I’d love to go onto an MA after this.
- Emily
