Some facts about study in UK
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Higher studies in England means intense self-study so as to make students focus exactly on what they want from the plethora of options
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PHOTO: M. PERIASAMY
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.
The UK 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 energies
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.
From Iceland to Peru to the US and Australia, the experience and confidence you gain by interacting with students from diverse backgrounds will give you a global perspective and fresh insights into your chosen subject. Dissertation is a wonderful way to directly connect with the industry of your chosen line, which otherwise is next to impossible.
An important tip for anyone planning to go study in the UK is to get into the right study group, as the English believe a good group means good results.
The UK encourages mature students to return to the university, and after my personal experience, I can vouch for the fact that going back to school after a few years of meeting office deadlines can be a refreshingly wonderful process. Most importantly, it will help one understand where and how to plug the knowledge gaps.
Cultural activities
Not to forget the stimulating cultural experience, most universities have international student offices that regularly organise events to familiarise the students with local life. For example, you can fix up to live with a local family during your Christmas vacation. They also have regular trips to cities around UK.
Then, you can join up various student societies if you want to know a country better and eventually figure out the work opportunities there. There are also a plethora of hobby groups.
Ideally, choose the top student cities, as it means living and studying among students, which means unlimited fun during term time. Pubbing is a major part of any student's life in England, and it is a lesson in time management to cope with course work amidst wild partying.
Apart from making friends from around the globe, there are too many things to do and see, as England is full of places that we all grew up reading about. But amidst the fun, it is very important not to lose sight of `your' goal.
MANJULA MURARI
(Student of Communication Studies at the University of Leeds)
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