University of Essex International College

I chose Essex because I wanted to do the International Year One programme and I think Essex has the best one. All the students are really friendly and the teachers are always very nice to us, so it’s easy to be friends with them.

Essex’s ranking is good and I felt it was the best choice for me. I’ve learned so many things about my degree subject as an introduction during my pathway course. I think that’s what will help me in my second year.

Before I arrived I was worried about making new friends, but I really like it here - the people are so nice! I actually met my best friend in my first class on my first day. In the future, I want to do a master's degree focusing on healthcare engineering. I've wanted to do Engineering since I started secondary school - I really like creative technical things like programming.

When you live in a new culture like this, of course things are going to be hard and there will be ups and downs, but always think about why you’re here. You’re here for a reason: to learn new things, so you should make the most of it. Of course, still contact friends and family back home but make time for your friends here, get to know people and you’ll enjoy it!