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
Encouraging and helpful
Not many places offer something as specific as Performance Sportswear Design. I spoke to two alumni who share the same passion as me in football kits. They have great things to say about the course. I also exchanged emails with Patrick Gottelier and it was great to see that he was personally interested in my story. The International Team was very helpful in answering all my questions and made it a much easier decision.
THE MOST DIFFICULT THING ABOUT BEING AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT?
The cost of the course as well as the living cost. I wish there were more scholarships and bursaries available for international students.
HOW HAVE YOU FOUND THE COURSE?
I love it. They are doing a great job in convincing us to be brave and to try new things in our 90 weeks here. I like the fact that in the first year, we are working with Fashion Design students as we can learn a lot from each other.
THE ACADEMIC SCHOOL...
Everyone is so friendly here. Both campuses are great. Falmouth/Woodlane is very charming. I only wished it was opened till later like Tremough/Penryn. Tremough/Penryn has very modern facilities. The library and IT suite are pretty good too!
INVOLVED WITH ANY CLUBS AND SOCIETIES?
I play on two FXU teams, badminton and tennis. I am also an avid participant in many of the International Society Events.
WHAT SOCIAL ACTIVITIES DO YOU ENJOY?
I enjoy conversations over dinner or quiet drinks. Playing sports is a big deal for me too. On top of the FXU societies, I also play volleyball for the Cornish Saracens in a local league.
WHAT'S THE BEST THING ABOUT LIVING IN FALMOUTH?
Falmouth is a great little town. Even though I don’t do any water sports, I enjoy being close to the water. I think being far away from a big city allows students to really focus on learning.
WHAT WILL YOU MISS MOST ABOUT FALMOUTH WHEN YOU LEAVE?
I will miss the daily uphill walks everywhere. I am not joking!
HAS THE UNIVERSITY BEEN SUPPORTIVE DURING YOUR TIME HERE?
I haven’t really needed the support from any of the support groups available. Though the tutors/staff have been extremely supportive, the same goes for the staff in the academic office and the International office.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO STUDENTS PLANNING ON COMING TO FALMOUTH?
I’d tell them to come! But if they are in doubt, join one of the Facebook groups of the courses they want to get into and speak to students who are currently doing the course. Reach out to alumni via various forms of social media. And if it’s possible, come visit the campus. I didn’t see the school before I came, but via the website and other channels, I was already able to make my decision to come down here. Also, I’d advise students to find out which campus they will be studying at.
THE FUTURE?
I want to design football kits and all types of sportswear. I would like to work in the UK or Europe. I am confident my Falmouth education and experience will take me places!
- Christer
Falmouth is my home away from home
While on my hunt in finding the most suitable foundation course for me, I carried a mental checklist of must-haves for the university I would end up attending. The student work had to be really good, as it’s a reflection of not only the students but of the teachers educating them. The location had to be nowhere close to home! My wanderlust forbade that so my search led me to solely attend schools overseas. Most importantly, I had to be able to imagine myself taking away the experience I desired in my first year, academically, socially, environmentally, and Falmouth was it.
THE MOST DIFFICULT THING ABOUT BEING AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT?
I would probably have to say the currency exchange! I’m used to it now, but it is a bit annoying every now and then. Also, not being able to just hop on a train home for the weekend like some of my friends who actually live in this country. It's not as if I can just take a day's worth of travel to go back home for less than three days anytime I wanted!
HOW HAVE YOU FOUND THE COURSE?
It’s VERY challenging. At first, like any other student, you are like, "I can handle whatever they throw at me?" But once procrastination kicks in and your first assessment is right around the corner, you realize how much work and time you have left before then! For me, though, I like a good challenge.
THE ACADEMIC SCHOOL
I absolutely love the library! The resources are very useful. I’m not entirely into books, but I’ve gotten into the habit of going to the library and not leaving without one or several! Also, the lectures are informative when it comes to the many layers of art history and how it has influenced modern and past artists.
INVOLVED WITH ANY CLUBS AND SOCIETIES?
When it comes to clubs and societies, I’m very indecisive because there are so many interesting ones that I want to join, but it’s difficult to pick.
WHAT SOCIAL ACTIVITIES DO YOU ENJOY?
I’ve been exploring the many nooks and crannies of Falmouth and other nearby areas with my friends. That's not enough for me though. I plan on hopping on the train soon to see as much as I can before the year is over. At the same time, I have to balance out my work schedule so I can go as I please.
WHAT'S THE BEST THING ABOUT LIVING IN FALMOUTH?
It would definitely have to be the fact that I live right by the ocean and just the array of people you find here.
WHAT WILL YOU MISS MOST ABOUT FALMOUTH WHEN YOU LEAVE?
I will definitely miss the people I’ve met, from seeing them every day to not at all will be very unusual for me because I’m already so adjusted to life here. The scene as a whole I will miss dearly because I’m in a mindset at the moment where I feel that Falmouth is my home from home.
HAS THE UNIVERSITY BEEN SUPPORTIVE DURING YOUR TIME HERE?
Very supportive, especially as an international student coming into a new country and trying my best to adjust to the culture. Any problems or concerns I’ve had have been resolved and figured out with help from the international office, tutors and the list goes on!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO STUDENTS PLANNING ON COMING TO FALMOUTH?
Make sure this is what you want! When you start your journey into higher education, you're investing so much time and money into it, so don’t let such an experience go to waste. Especially when it comes to actually being on the course, don’t procrastinate too much because it will come back to haunt you in the end if you don’t obtain the results you want.
THE FUTURE?
At the moment, I’m doing massive research into what I want to do with my life for the next year or so. There are so many things I’m interested in and would love to do, but I need to discover what really suits me and my passion. I do plan on continuing my travels either into other parts of Europe or just seeing more of England as a whole.
- Carmela
