March 4, 2019, by International students

International Student Ambassadors: Paloma from Spain

Why did you choose to study your specific course and what are your favourite aspects of the course so far?

At the beginning I had applied to study medicine however did not meet the criteria nonetheless the University of Nottingham saw my potential which is the thing that I most love about this university and offered me an alternative course. As briefly mentioned before the great thing about this university is that they do not only focus on your grades but also look for potential and consider you other qualities and what you can bring to the table. I got then accepted into Medical Physiology and Therapeutics which I enjoy immensely as it provides a wider knowledge and understanding of the different aspects that create medicine.

How do you hope your course will impact on your future career?

My course will provide me the skills and knowledge which will provide me the necessary information to reach my future careers goals. This done through their interactive sessions, the variety and big amount of practical lab skills as well as their way of teaching which allows you to follow and go more in depth in the subjects or line or subjects and themes that most interest you.

What was your experience of arriving in the UK/in Nottingham?

At arriving at the UK/Nottingham I found it very intimidating as it was a total contrast from the countries I had lived before from culture to weather. Nonetheless the people here are so helpful especially on campus as you have so much support been it from international support to financial and accommodation support. From day one you are told and explained how to do all the paperwork as well as how to open a bank account. Even other students who are from the UK are very open and help you around the campus or even explain to you how to get around and basic social living skills like not forgetting to turn on the plug so that your electronics work!!!

What has been your experience of making friends with people from other countries?

Making friends is the easiest thing ever. During the first few weeks there are so many social events from bowling to clubbing as well as campus tours which allow you to meet so many people who are starting like you. The most important thing is that they dedicate a whole week just for international students with many activities even an Ikea trip so that you can settle in. This allows you to meet so many international students with which you quickly make friends and that allows you at least to even have some familiar faces in your lecture rooms. It also makes the transition easier as you are not directly confronted with finding yourself being surrounded by British students which is quite daring especially when you do not feel a hundred percent confident of your English skills. Nonetheless I would recommend going out of your comfort zone and try to make friends with people who are not only from your country as everyone is very open and you can gain so much cultural knowledge and meet the most amazing people.

How has your experience of finding accommodation – why did you choose to live where you live and what are the best aspects of it?

Finding accommodation is very easy. You are automatically secured an accommodation place on campus in your first year be it self-catered or catered. In my first year I was catered whereas in my second and third year I was self-catered. Catered consists in apart from having access to bathrooms and rooms with study area you also get provided breakfast and diner as well as a meal card for lunch. In my opinion this is the best option for first year especially if you are an international student and already have to adapt to so many things this is one less thing to worry about. They cater to all the dietary requirements and the deserts are amazing!!!They also have theme nights where they do diners based on different cuisine styles from different countries. You might even be lucky and find that your country has a theme night!! It might not be as amazing as when you have it back home however it does provide some familiarity and decrease a bit homesickness when it comes to food!!! On the contrary self-catered provides you with bathrooms, rooms with study areas and a communal kitchen where you go buy and make your own food and do not have to follow a strict eating time. You also have the possibility to ask to be with your friends in the same flat which allows you to experience independence and adulthood at a higher level while having a blast with your friends. A thing that they both have in common is a communal living space where you can meet other people, very friendly reception team and amazing social which include a Xmas dinner and summer ball.

If you have any questions about studying at the University of Nottingham as an international student, you can get in touch with our International Ambassadors via email.

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