David Tillo

My course 

My lecturers are world experts and at the forefront of their research which makes lectures and seminars incredibly exciting and interesting! I have also really enjoyed being able to choose my modules in the second and final year which has allowed me to tailor my studies in order to accommodate my research interests. 

I’ve found that the teaching staff in both the Department of Politics and the School of Economics are very approachable. They will happily meet with you and figure out how you can best improve your results. The teaching staff also put a lot of effort into making sure that graduates are employable and will succeed in their career interests. 

My career and development 

The University’s exceptional and recognised Professional Training placement scheme will boost my employability skills and open more doors in today’s competitive graduate job market. I was very fortunate to secure a position with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs as part of the Government Economic Service’s placement scheme. This was a role that was advertised by the University’s employability and careers service and I was offered a lot of support during the application stage. 

“From the moment I arrived at Manor Park reception, welcomed and cheered by Freshers’ Angels, I felt an instant connection with Surrey.” 

My life at Surrey 

I think we are spoiled with choice when it comes to clubs and societies. There’s a club for all major sports at the Surrey Sports Park. There are also theme-oriented societies such as the Politics Society and the Economics and Finance Society. The Politics Society often organises events and socials – it’s nice to have conversation with people interested in what you are studying! The Portuguese Society is a very nice way of getting to know other people from my country and helps us cure any homesickness. 

The best memory I have during my time at Surrey is from Welcome Week in my first year. From the moment I arrived at Manor Park reception, welcomed and cheered by Freshers’ Angels, I felt an instant connection with Surrey. The University community is extremely welcoming, and the student body is remarkably diverse – so it’s rather easy to find someone you can connect with. As an international student this was extremely convenient and really helped smooth the transition into University life in the UK. The University and the Students’ Union prepared a series of academic and non-academic activities, such as course inductions and nights-out at Rubix. There was never a time I had nothing to do.  I’ve had an amazing experience and thoroughly enjoyed time at Surrey, and I will cherish these memories for the rest of my life. 

Discover more about our courses in politics and international relations, including our BSc (Hons) Politics and Economics.