Off to University?

By Kshalini Nonis

Some may already be packing to go off to university –an exciting time for many. We spoke to some  students to get their  views on how they went about choosing a uni and what they wish they knew… 
 

Aruni Deraniyagala
University of Cardiff

Q1- I didn’t really do anything to prepare for university. One thing I wish I had done is learnt how to budget for university, because I struggled a bit at first to figure out how to budget for groceries, rent and bills.

Q2- I picked my university by researching which ones had a strong programme for the subject I wanted to study and then picked the one I thought had the nicest campus. I think you should also consider whether you would prefer to live in a city or somewhere less busy; what the transport in the area is like and what sort of a community you want to live in. It’s important to remember that you are not just deciding where you will be studying, but also where you will be living for the next few years.

Q3- I chose to do a joint degree in Law and Criminology. I enjoyed reading and was told that Law would be a subject I would be good at. I was really interested in true crime at the time and thought it would be interesting to study the two subjects alongside each other. I researched several universities and used several different university rankings to determine which universities had the strongest programmes for the course I wanted to study.

Q4- My university provided accommodation for first years so I didn’t have to worry about it initially. In my second year I joined several Facebook groups with other students from my university who were looking for accommodation and formed a group. I found it was much easier to find accommodation when you were searching with a group of people than searching alone.

Q5- My university had a pretty good support system for international students. They organised coaches to transport students from the airport at the beginning of each semester. The Students’ Union also held events such as language cafes and cultural celebrations to allow students to connect with others and share their culture.

Q6- I wish I had known how relaxed the university environment is. You are probably going to get stressed about getting readings done on time and meeting assignment deadlines, but lecturers and tutors are generally quite relaxed about whether or not you’ve completed the prep work for your assignments. I used to be nervous about going for classes when I felt like I hadn’t prepared enough, but I realised that my tutors were very understanding and often if you explained that you haven’t managed to finish the work, they will do they’re best to make sure you understand what’s happening in class. They were also very approachable and happy to answer any questions I had about our lessons during class, or via email.

Q7- If you have some sort of comfort snack, you should definitely take that. I packed about 10 packets of ginger biscuits when I first moved for university.

Halina

Q1- Preparing for university was a multifaceted process. It began with rigorous academic preparation, ensuring I had a strong foundation in the subjects relevant to my chosen field. Beyond academics, I focused on developing critical life skills such as time management, independence, and adaptability. 

Q5- Support for international students is a critical consideration when choosing a university. Many institutions offer dedicated services to help with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and language barriers. Additionally, universities often have international student offices that provide orientation programmes, academic advising, and social activities to help students integrate into the campus community. It’s important to choose a university that not only welcomes international students but also provides the necessary resources to ensure their success and well-being. 

Q6- Before leaving for college, I wish I had fully understood the importance of networking and building relationships with professors and peers. I also underestimated the value of taking care of my mental health amidst the pressures of academic life. Additionally, I wish I had known more about the various campus resources available to help with everything from study skills to financial aid. Finally, understanding the importance of work-life balance and the need to engage in activities outside of academics would have better prepared me for the university experience. 

Q7- When leaving Sri Lanka, it’s important to take items that provide comfort and a sense of home. This could include traditional spices or snacks that are hard to find abroad, cultural clothing for special events, and memorabilia that remind you of your roots. Additionally, carrying important documents, such as academic records and identification, is essential. On a more personal note, having a strong sense of cultural identity and pride in your heritage will help you navigate life in a new country while maintaining your connection to home.  

Q9-  Research opportunities, internships, and study abroad programmes are essential components of a holistic education. Internships provide practical experience and a glimpse into the professional world, often leading to job offers post-graduation. Study abroad programmes, on the other hand, offer a global perspective, exposing you to different cultures and academic environments. Participating in these opportunities not only enhances your resume but also broadens your horizons, making you a well-rounded individual.

Nevaan Jayewardene
Vitebsk State Medical University, Belarus

Q1- I started off by doing a few pre-med classes from the agent that was taking me to my university over in Belarus. It consists of a generic run through of A-Level biology, chemistry and physics to prepare future medical students. Apart from that, I read through some anatomy notes myself.

Q2- One must always consider the nature of the country, the curriculum type, length and degree as well as the community. Even factors like the cost of living and lodging is very important.

Q3- I’ve always wanted to do Medicine from when I was 15 years old. I’ve loved helping people get better for a long time, so it felt natural to pick up Medicine as a major. Belarus, among many others, has a very strong reputation for Medicine. The other key factor is the degree, which is an MD that can be completed in 6 years. It felt like an amazing opportunity to me, so I took it on.

Q4- My accommodation was sorted out with the help of my agents, BCAS. They helped me locate an apartment in the city of Vitebsk with very favourable bus routes to my university and other hot spots in the city.

Q5- Support can be found through both agents and the university. We have a Sri Lankan Medical Students’ Union (SLMSU) over at my university, so they assist all Lankans alongside their respective agents to ensure a smooth entry into the curriculum. Alongside the unions, the University also has a faculty for overseas students, so all students can work alongside the university for any of their matters.

Q6- I wish I knew what was in store for me over in Belarus. I went in with no experience or bearings whatsoever, so everything was very new to me. I had to find my footing using translating apps and maps to know where I was or what people were saying.

Q7- Mostly spices, especially since spices overseas are not necessarily “spicy.” Other things include home favourites like drinks and snacks to enjoy while you’re overseas.

Q8- The Vitebsk State Medical University features cricket, football and basketball tournaments organised by the SLMSU, so there is a fair share of fun and enjoyment. Alongside sports, we also celebrate Diwali, Avurudu and Christmas, so it certainly feels like home over there.

Q9- Once you finish your degree, the University offers options through the Lankan-based agents in Belarus to pursue qualifications such as PLAB for the UK and USMLE for America. Internships can be done in Belarus to complete any necessary “work experience” related requests for the examinations. Study abroad programmes include the opportunity to come and intern in Lanka as well, so holidays can also have you working in Lankan hospitals while you’re here, which is a big advantage in my opinion.

Yeran Aturupane
Clark University Massachusetts USA

Q1- Firstly, I created a list of all the universities I hoped to apply to in the US, with assistance from my uncle and aunt who currently reside in the US. I then applied through the Common App and arranged all my documentation, high school certificates and transcripts, and other supplementary materials that universities may need from me. After decisions rolled through, I picked the most viable option in terms of prestige and affordability, and sorted out any other documentation that I may need such as finances and visa. 

I particularly looked for universities which give scholarships, grants and financial assistance. With my London AL results and my school records, both studies and extra-curricular activities at S. Thomas’ College, Mt Lavinia, I received a scholarship and a grant at my current university in the US.  

Q2- I would say that affordability is a major factor when considering tertiary education. University can be costly, and one should consider if it is financially viable to attend, and if the return on investment is worth the cost. Most universities specialize in particular departments, therefore, choosing a university where you can get the best education whilst benefiting your future career the most is vital. Moreover, one should consider if their future career would benefit from receiving a college degree.

Q3- Selecting my major and future career were quite straightforward. I took psychology for my London A-Levels and instantly fell in love with the subject, and since then I knew, I was going to major in psychology and pursue a career in that field. 

Q4- As I live on campus in the residence halls, I do not have to worry about leasing and rent just yet. I just pay the room fees each semester. 

Q5- My university has a large international community in both the undergraduate and graduate schools. The undergraduate international community is very welcoming and clubs such as the International Student Association offer a helping hand to new international students who are struggling to adjust. Moreover, my university has other services such as counsellors, advisors, and deans that can help international students integrate with university life. 

Q6- I wish that I had researched more about the university and all that it has to offer in terms of clubs, jobs, and research opportunities and how to apply for those, as these areas are very competitive. I also would have liked to tell my past self to take things one day at a time, be more organised, and to live in the moment so that I don’t get too stressed !

Q7- The most important thing that I took to university with me were all the values, morals, and character that I learnt in Sri Lanka.  The study habits and organisation skills have helped me immensely, and bringing my culture along has helped me create an identity and allowed me to showcase the vibrancy of Sri Lanka to people from all around the world. 

Q8- My university offers a plethora of clubs and extracurriculars for students to be a part of and engage in. Many societies and associations exist for students from all cultures and backgrounds such as the International Student Association and the South Asian Student Union. Moreover, there are many club sports such as soccer, volleyball and tennis for students who wish to play a sport but not on a varsity level. 

As for other extracurricular activities, such as music, you could join the university concert band, orchestra or choir. Since I am very much into music, I am a permanent member of the university band and orchestra and I enjoy performing with them very much. 

Q9- My university offers many research opportunities where students can collaborate with a Professor from their department and work on studies and experiments.