March 25, 2019, by International students
International Student Ambassadors: Guillermo from Mexico
Hi, I am Guillermo From Mexico, I am currently studying MSc Renewable Energy and Architecture at the University of Nottingham, I love what I am studying, I love where I am studying, and I hope this blog helps you to say the same as me.
Why did you choose to study your specific course and what are your favourite aspects of the course so far?
At the beginning I knew I wanted to study something related to sustainability, and the University of Nottingham has a lot of Masters courses on this subject so, after the International Ambassadors helped me choose the perfect Masters for me, I am studying MSc Renewable Energy and Architecture. And to be honest I could not be happier with my decision, it is an amazing course which involves the analysis of renewable energy technologies and passive architecture designs. My favourite aspect of my course is the diversity of backgrounds of all my classmates, this gives the course an amazing exchange of ideas and knowledge.
How do you hope your course will impact on your future career?
I have not even finished my course and it has already impacted my future career, since it has not only given me knowledge, but also a new way of thinking and connections, all of which have helped me to realise what do I want to do in my future.
Describe your experience of the teaching on your course at the University of Nottingham
All the lectures in the course are very well structured to teach me new tools and how to use them in practice. The conveners are well prepared and very enthusiastic to share their knowledge and help you to make the most out of the course.
What attracted you to the UK?
The UK is one of the countries which has strongly invested in renewable energy, it has become an example of how it is possible to decarbonise a coal-fuelled country. Therefore, the studies programme in sustainability matter are very advanced and you can see the importance of the course by just walking around the cities.
What was your experience of arriving in the UK/in Nottingham?
At first I was very scared of being in a city where I do not know the way around, but it was a happy surprise to get quite a warm welcome. Ever since I arrived at the airport, everyone has been very helpful and friendly, thanks to everyone I found it really easy to get to my residence. My tip is, do not be afraid to ask for directions, the people are very open to help you with any problem you have.
What has been your experience of making friends with people from other countries?
One of the best parts of the University of Nottingham is that a third of the students are international, so it is very easy to meet people from all over the world, the university organises a lot of events so students can meet, thanks to these events I have a lot of friends from many places and it is an amazing experience to have a cultural exchange with them, and learning first-hand about their way of life is one of the most enriching experience I ever had in my life.
Describe your experience of the University of Nottingham in terms of safety
The university has an amazing campus, I love getting lost in it and finding new and amazing areas, this university never fails to surprise me, and the campus is extremely safe. My tip is, walk as much as you can on campus, you might encounter the perfect spot to be.
How has your experience of finding accommodation – why did you choose to live where you live and what are the best aspects of it?
I live in private accommodation in Dunkirk, I think is an amazing place to live since it is very close to the university, it is also a very safe and quiet neighbourhood, the prices are very accessible, and the houses are very comfortable. It is a great chance to live in a typical British house.
Do you work part-time? Tell us about where you work and your experience of working in the UK
I work as an International Student Ambassador at the University, it is a great job that involves meeting a lot of people and sharing your experience while studying abroad, I’ve found it very enriching working here, since I have the chance to help new students to make the best decision about their future.
What are your tips for making friends and adapting to cultural differences?
Everyone is a potential new friend so do not be afraid and talk to everyone. Take part in social events organised by the university, and also join university societies, there are a lot of them, I am sure you will find more than one that interests you.
Do you have any tips for adapting to the academic environment in the UK?
Do not be afraid to ask any questions to the teachers, they are happy to help you with any problems you may have. Also, you have a personal tutor that can help you with any problem you might have, talk to them, they give you great tips to help you adapt to the academic environment.
How have you found studying in English and do you have any tips for non-native English language speakers?
I am a native Spanish speaker, at first I was scared because I had never attended a class in English before, I was afraid of not understanding everything. In the end, I found the teachers speak very clear English and if I have a question they are more than happy to answer it. The university has a lot of English courses that helped me to improve my writing skills, pronunciation, etc. My tip is to join these courses as they are a great way to improve your English.
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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