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Some facts about study in U.K.

CHOOSE CAREFULLY: Selecting the right course and the university is important, as it makes a lot of difference in terms of what one gains from the degree later. — Photo: M. Periasamy

The United Kingdom is `the' preferred option for most international students pursuing post graduation, as the courses there are a yearlong vis-à-vis the masters courses elsewhere.

Of course, there is the added perk of travelling around Europe during the vacation time, which makes it a lucrative destination for many international students.

After working for nearly a decade in the media, studying in the UK reconnected me with my past both in terms of my academic pursuits and reliving my adolescence.

The arduous task of unlearning what one has learnt and adhering to the strictures of research-based academic writing was not what I was prepared for when I decided to study all over again.

A rather embarrassing beginning made me realise that higher education in England meant doing intense self study as the idea is to make students focus exactly on what they want from the plethora of options available to them.

Channelising energy

Mentoring for the English is a way of directing the students to channelise their energies in the right direction and this for a student not used to their system, can be both unnerving and tedious initially.

University education is looked upon with great respect in the UK and hence it is assumed anyone coming to the university is clear about why they have chosen a particular module or course. Vague objectives are frowned upon by the faculty and may result in equally vague responses.

Precision and clarity are crucial.

No practical work

Depending on the stream, there are skill courses and research-oriented courses where there is no practical work.

So, do make it a point to read it carefully before you spend thousands of pounds to end up frustrated in England.

Also selecting the right university is equally important, as it will make a lot of difference in terms of what you gain from the degree later.

Being in the right place will mean gathering the best possible skills in your chosen field.

The university and the faculty understand the `study experience' that most international students come to the UK for.

However, it is equally important for us to make use of the extensive facilities and the opportunity of meeting similarly placed used students to see where we stand on a global platform.

(Student of Communication Studies at the University of Leeds)

Manjula Murari

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