Pei-Yun Chen BA Joint Honours Linguistics and German - Taiwan
Why Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÒÅÆ×ÊÁÏ?
I was introduced to Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÒÅÆ×ÊÁÏ through my agent when applying to U.K. universities and I had decided to come to a place that is not as busy and loud as a capital city but with the same amount of good resources for languages and multicultural varieties.
The International Ambassador Scheme
I arrived Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÒÅÆ×ÊÁÏ alone, with no contacts in U.K. and I was helped many times by the International Support office team, including airport pickups, emergencies, and familiarising me with the environment. Whilst experiencing anxiety and insecurity, I was very touched by the warm and welcoming atmosphere the International Support team created. Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÒÅÆ×ÊÁÏ has now become just like my second home. I would like to contribute my own efforts to help international students and the university in a way more than a word of thanks and share my experiences with the others.
What is the most difficult thing about being an International Student?
Being away from home the first time for this long and experiencing culture, the difference in the time zone, and language differences. I think international students need to overcome and embrace these difficulties and make them a positive experience
The Course
I love linguistics and the best thing is that I get to learn about the logic and the scientific aspects behind languages, speakers, and hearers whilst to keep learning German, my second foreign language. My German course has given me opportunities to study in Germany and introduces me to many cultural backgrounds, accessing the German culture and language on an advanced level.
The Lecturers
With great professionals in the field of languages and linguistics, I have been able to develop a strong passion as I kept discovering more things I enjoy to do. Our academic school holds a lot of speeches and workshops for us to learn with various perspectives. Other than theories, we also learn about the interactions and cultures between people from all over the World. The varieties and opportunities enable me to become a more understanding person and also enhance my language and linguistics skills.
Clubs and Societies
I am participating in many activities and workshops held by both the Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÒÅÆ×ÊÁÏ Linguistics Society and Modern Language Society. I am also a member of the Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÒÅÆ×ÊÁÏ Arts Society and a course representative of my linguistics course. I enjoy the trips held by both Campus Life and the International Office, as they have given me the chance to know more people and even met friends from home.
Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÒÅÆ×ÊÁÏ and the area
I appreciate the peace and quietness in this small town, surrounded by well-preserved natural environments and there are good resources, a variety of cultures, and very friendly people, which create a nice studying atmosphere.
The best thing about Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÒÅÆ×ÊÁÏ
The scenic views and people - my flatmates, lecturers, professors, and staff.
Support from the University
I have had lots of support from my personal tutor and all my lecturers have been very patient, polite, and helpful to me, especially giving me many suggestions on studying and living.
Advice for new International Students
A good language proficiency and knowing what you like and what you want to do can lead you on the correct path and give you more confidence while studying abroad. Be brave to explore all the fields and interests and feel free to open your mind and embrace all possibilities. Achieving your goals and making your dreams come true is never hard, once you are willing to step out your comfort zone.
The Future
I hope to be studying my master’s degree and working and living in Europe. It would be great if I get to learn more languages and devote my passion in the linguistics field. I have always believed in the saying that ‘not everyone can become a great artist, but a great artist can come from anywhere’, as long as we have the courage to try and we always try our best.