Ioana Meta

Why did you choose to come to Surrey? 

Surrey’s location was ideal for me: a university located near the countryside as well as close to London. Additionally, the campus seemed to combine both places for studying and entertainment. It was also very encouraging to see that there is a Centre of Wellbeing, which caters for students’ mental health issues. 

Why are you passionate about your subject?

I love communicating with people from other cultures and exchanging new ideas, which renders Translation Studies an ideal field for me. 

Why did you choose to study your course at Surrey?

"...the main factor that contributed to my decision was the revamp that took place in the MA and MRes of Translation and Interpreting Studies, where more and more modules were using cutting-edge technologies."

The main reason why I chose Surrey among other universities is because of its multi-year experience in the field of Translation Studies and, also, due to the fact that the masters programmes included the language combination of English and Greek. However, the main factor that contributed to my decision was the revamp that took place in the MA and MRes of Translation and Interpreting Studies, where more and more modules were using cutting-edge technologies. This change rendered the specific master’s degrees more up to date.  

What do you like about your course?

What I liked most about my course is that it offered the opportunity of connecting with other translators and translation scholars through a wide range of seminars we had to attend weekly. Additionally, the CTS Careers Fair Centre for Translation Studies that took place in May was an amazing opportunity to connect with employers in the translation industry as well. 

What are the academic staff and facilities like on your course? 

All the people who comprise the academic staff in the Centre of Translation Studies are friendly, approachable and, willing to help their students. Regarding the facilities, everything I needed to use during this whole year was accessible in the library – books and software (e.g., Trados, Anaconda, NVivo).

What course(s) did you study before, and where did you study? 

In 2021, I completed my BA on English Language and Literature at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece, which lasted for four years.

Are you part of any clubs or societies? How have they contributed to your Surrey experience?

I am a member of Salsa Society at the University of Surrey. However, I was mostly engaged in Surrey New Writers Festival, for which I designed this year’s flyer and poster and wrote two blogs as well. This was a great opportunity for me since I met people that also love to write, and we had intriguing discussions about writing. Such experiences made me feel less stressed with my studies, since I was being productive in something that I like. 

Have you lived in University accommodation? 

For the whole year I have been living in Hazel Farm, which was the ideal place for me to stay; although it was far from the University compared to other accommodation, it offered a peaceful and safe place to stay. 

What’s the best thing about living in University accommodation?

"...the best thing about living in the student accommodation is that you have the opportunity to get closer to other students and enjoy each other’s company."

For all the first-year international students who have to get acquainted with a new place, new people and, generally, a new lifestyle, it is reassuring to know that there are other students who feel the same and are more than willing to strike up new friendships. Therefore, the best thing about living in the student accommodation is that you have the opportunity to get closer to other students and enjoy each other’s company. 

What are the best things about life in general at Surrey? 

Life in Surrey can be peaceful, and this can be attributed to the fact that it is surrounded by nature. Although social life in Guildford is not that lively, student life at the University of Surrey creates a strong community spirit; all the societies and clubs organise their own events where students get to know each other. 

How do you spend your time on campus? 

Whenever I would feel overwhelmed with my studies, I would spend most of my time by the lake; the clean air and the sunshine were exhilarating. However, during the winter I would visit more often the Surrey Nest, whose atmosphere made me feel relaxed. 

Have you used any of our support services?

Yes, I have visited MySurrey Hive several times and I have also contacted the international support team to ask specific questions about my visa.

What careers support have you received? 

I mostly received careers support through the University’s award-winning Employability and Careers Service, which I would highly recommend to students who want to apply for jobs. Firstly, I learned how I can increase my chances of being a potential candidate for a job by expanding my network through LinkedIn and creating an effective CV.

Secondly, I had the opportunity to prepare for future interviews through tips that experts offered and, also, rehearse by recording myself so as to ensure that I am ready for some more ‘unexpected’ questions. Thirdly, I had an overview of the assessment centres of specific companies and I am aware of their expectations. 

How do you think your time at Surrey has impacted your employability once you graduate? 

My time at Surrey contributed to my self-awareness and confidence, elements which are important for new job-seekers.

What has been your best moment at Surrey so far? 

My best moment at Surrey is meeting people that I love and have become a part of my life.

Do you have any advice for students thinking about postgraduate study?

"It might look daunting when you think of going abroad to study but being out of your comfort zone is where you really enhance your skillset."

It might look daunting when you think of going abroad to study but being out of your comfort zone is where you really enhance your skillset. Postgraduate studies are not only related to students’ learning about a certain field, but also to things like tolerance towards other cultures, open-mindedness, responsibility towards building your personality and career. 

What do you plan to do following your postgraduate course at Surrey?

My first goal is to gain some experience by working in the translation industry. My next goal is to apply for a PhD.