Yashika Jain
Yashika spent a semester studying at the University of Surrey as part of her undergraduate degree at Amity University Noida in Uttar Pradesh, India. Here she writes about her experience of coming to the UK to study a masters at Surrey.
Graduation year
2022"It’s been the best year of my life!"
Choosing Surrey
As part of my undergraduate degree in Business Administration (International Business) at Amity University Noida in Uttar Pradesh, I had the opportunity to study a semester abroad at the University of Surrey and I loved everything about it. The campus is so huge and beautiful, it offers so much to the students.
"...the student diversity at Surrey made me comfortable here and I didn’t feel out of place.... It’s the best combination of country and city life."
Moreover, the student diversity at Surrey made me comfortable here and I didn’t feel out of place. In terms of student life, there are so many clubs and societies and there’s always something happening around which helps students interact with people outside of their course or accommodation. Lastly, London being so close to the university opens so many opportunities. It’s the best combination of country and city life.
Your subject
"Make sure you actually like your subject and are passionate about it."
I am a very socially active person which made me think of capitalising on that for my career and fashion has always been an interesting field for me. This masters offered the best of both worlds hence it makes it really fun for me to be a part of this course. It helped me understand fashion as theory and the concepts involved in it which can be helpful for marketing. Areas such as merchandising and retailing were discussed which altogether made me confident about my knowledge in the industry.
During my university search, I didn’t find a university that offered modules like Surrey – such as modules in international fashion marketing and luxury branding, international retailing – hence Surrey was a clear choice for me. Its masters in Digital Marketing and Channel Management is the perfect balance of theoretical and practical modules which challenge the students to learn more and more.
Life at Surrey
I have been an active member of the Salsa and Bachata Society and have been taking part in activities by different societies such as the Craft Society and the Yoga Society. All of these societies helped me fit in the new environment, make new friends and be a part of fun activities way from my academic studies.
There are many places to visit, such as the lake, the Hive, Wates House, and the Nest. I usually go around these places or just take a walk with my friends.
University accommodation
I have been living in Band A accommodation at Stag Hill Court. It is a very good option if you’re looking to save money and are willing to share room and washroom space. I was lucky to have my room-mate who I had known since my semester abroad, so it wasn’t difficult to adjust.
Support at the University
My tutors have been very supportive, helping me organise my studies when I was struggling and also provided support in terms of telling me it's okay to struggle and advising me on ways to cope.
Top moments
My top three best moments are:
- Participating in the students’ union elections
- Social events during festivals
- Group projects
Overall, I have become a more confident person as I interacted with so many people and stepped out of my comfort zone so many times. It’s been the best year of my life!
Advice for students thinking about postgraduate study…
Make sure you actually like your subject and are passionate about it.
