The International Office

Dear Students at home,

Time flies, it is now my 6th year as a student in the UK. Now I am in the final year of my pharmacy undergraduate programme at University of Bath. Six years ago, a frail and self-contained little girl who had always been spoiled by her family, landed in UK. From that moment, her life has been changed, forever.

It was her first time in the western world, and for the first time, she had to manage her study, finance, relationships and most importantly, find her own goals and ways of life, all by herself. The school gave her much care and guidance, yet prompted her own wills, abilities and independency. Gradually, she opened up her views and overcame the obstacles. The eaglet then started her confident soaring in the unlimited sky.

During my A-level studies, I volunteered in the community and enjoyed working with elderly people at charity events. It was amazing how enthusiastic and compassionate British people are. I learnt the importance of social responsibility—it is for everyone, not just the government or charities. I also gained my first ever part-time job and maintained it throughout the rest of my school time. I taught myself self-discipline and the balance between study, work and life.

The whole society is ready to help young students in searching for their dreams. Targeted work experience is available from as early as school time. I had the opportunity to follow a consultant’s team at St James’s hospital in Leeds to gain first-hand medical experience and attended many pre-medical courses, I even won a team keyhole surgery award from the national Medsim course.

This is a country where people give and take in a balanced manner. I have found the essence of harmony and happiness in UK. With the inspiration and confidence I gained in UK, I hosted a live programme on international culture and music on the city radio in my hometown where 10 million people live.

At university, I fully exposed myself to a wide range of activities, including art, filming, dancing, yoga, swimming, golf and tennis. Having attended the art workshop for 1 year, I won the Vice Chancellor’s award for modern art. With passion and thoughts, I wrote for newspapers in China and competed with academics and company administrators, winning the Mayer’s top award on comments on the city’s international development.

I have always had a strong empathy for international students with difficulties. With the wish to support and share my experience with them, I promptly became an active member of the committee of the university Chinese societies. I strive to contribute, from organising, hosting and performing in the events to welcoming new students and delivering messages from the embassy.

Later, I found myself focused on the integration issues of international students, as this is a key to maximise their experience in the UK. I joined the university international students panel and facilitated the racial equality forum. Now I am working hard as a student buddy and the only international student representative in my class, acting as the bridge between all the international students and the staff. As an active helper of the international office, I am truly touched by and proud of the continuous efforts the university is making to improve international students’ welfare.

For professional development, I spent most of my holidays attending various internships. I volunteered at the university laboratory, hospitals, local community pharmacies and gained a graduate internship. Meanwhile, I have used the knowledge and skills obtained in the UK to fulfill several internships in hospitals and pharmaceutical companies in China and made some useful comments there. The practical ability and the creative and critical thinking of UK students were always appreciated by the hosts.

UK universities are very international. I picked up German, Korean and Japanese by attending the extra-curricular language courses or through talking to friends from all over the world. I found adapting to a new culture much easier. Last year, I became the first ever student from my course to go on an overseas placement in Japan where I took part in a cutting-edge research on Influenza viruses. The Japanese professor described me as one of his best students ever and proposed further cooperation with my university according to my performance.

The UK has provided me with invaluable experience, re-built and strengthened me. I grew up here and ultimately found myself here. I am now pursuing an international career and wish to continue my love for volunteering in the UK and China. Together with many UK graduates, I wish to contribute to a revolutionary advance in the healthcare in China.

If you are one with ambitions, come to the UK, this land of opportunity will lead you to your goals. If you are hesitating, come to the UK, the land with support and love will help you to find yourself. In a few years time, you will be telling your extraordinary stories to your fellow students.

Best wishes,
Yuewen