Zeynep Polat Posoflu

Why did you choose to come to Surrey? 

"I was very interested in the University’s industry connections as it proves this programme values industry experience as much as theoretical knowledge, which is a trait many other universities do not possess"

The University of Surrey has a very good reputation among other universities for its quality of quality and the range of careers which alumni embark on. I was very interested in the University’s industry connections as it proves this programme values industry experience as much as theoretical knowledge, which is a trait many other universities do not possess.

What was your impression of Surrey?

The University provided lots of information to prepare a student like me to be comfortable working in the translation industry. The surrounding environment of Surrey was also relaxing for both socialising and studying. I did not feel out of place even though it was my first time visiting and staying in the UK.

Why are you passionate about your subject?

I have always had a passion for languages since I was a child. I was interested in reading English books, writing various stories, and noting new words I learned in any notebook I could find. Dictionaries have been a joy for me to read. I was also interested in lectures in other subjects, like maths, science, history, but languages had a special place in my heart.

Why did you choose to study your course at Surrey?

"This programme provided modules with knowledge necessary for both languages and technology. It also introduced me to new concepts regarding languages"

This programme provided modules with knowledge necessary for both languages and technology. It also introduced me to new concepts regarding languages, like corpus linguistics and machine-translation. 
I believe this knowledge and my experience at Surrey will be a big step towards my dream career of becoming a professional translator.

What do you like about your course?

I like that it is research-focused since I did not have the opportunity to lean on the academic side of translation during my undergraduate studies at Yeditepe University in Istanbul, Turkey. I learned so much about academic research and this course has made me consider a future career in academia. 

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

"My favourite side of the lecturers is that they are all so enthusiastic about their job and research, which made my academic year and lectures come alive" 

I received insightful knowledge and experience from the academic staff. My favourite side of the lecturers is that they are all so enthusiastic about their job and research, which made my academic year and lectures come alive. 

Have you lived in University accommodation? If so, what is/was it like?

I lived with wonderful room-mates in Wealden House, Bellerby Court on campus. It was a great and comfortable experience and it made campus life so relaxing. I had no issues in terms of internet connection and reception. The accommodation is close to the supermarket, bus stop and the city of Guildford. I could go anywhere easily.

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

"Guildford is a small city, but it is so lively, and it is less crowded than London, so I liked it a lot"

Guildford is a small city, but it is so lively, and it is less crowded than London, so I liked it a lot. Guildford is also close to London. I could go there in just 34 minutes by train – the station is just a 10-minute walk from campus. 

I enjoy spending time with my friends by the lake or in the coffee shop. I also love studying in the library since it is quiet and large enough for all students.

Do you feel supported at university?

I feel so supported by my tutors and my supervisor. I had my doubts about my dissertation – on compiling a sample bilingual Turkish-English academic collocation dictionary – and how it would go, but they gave me their full support and encouragement.

What has been your best moment at Surrey so far? 

My best moment so far was my first orientation day, when I meet everyone for the first time. That was when I said, “This is really happening, this is the first day of my new life”.

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

Do not be afraid or restrain yourself to take the next step.

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

I plan to get a full-time job and stay in the UK, but during my postgraduate studies, I started to consider my options for a PhD.