UQ Programme: Bachelor of Arts
When I first learned of my successful application to do an exchange with the University of Leeds, I was elated. I have always wanted a chance to study at the University of Leeds, not just because it is a prestigious university, but also because I had a hunch that I would really enjoy studying there. I was right. My semester at Leeds was one of the most memorable times of my life, and I was sorry to leave at the end of it.
The University of Leeds is located in West Yorkshire, England. It offers a huge range of modules, including some that are not offered at UQ. Personally, I had little problems making the transition from the UQ academic environment to the one at Leeds, as both are very similar in terms of teaching and learning styles. However, one thing that I found confusing especially at first was the terminology used. For example, what we at UQ call ‘tutorials’ are called ‘seminars’ at Leeds, which sounded quite similar to lectures to me so I occasionally mixed up my lectures and seminars!
Academic experiences aside, I had various other wonderful experiences while studying abroad. Leeds (and the UK in general) is a great place to live in. Here are some tips on how to make the best out of your time there:
1. When living in Leeds, I loved to do grocery shopping at Kirkgate Market. This market is Europe’s largest covered market, where a big variety of local and international foodstuffs are sold.
2. If you do get to study in Leeds or anywhere in Yorkshire, I highly recommend exploring the Yorkshire County itself. One must-visit is the vast and rural Yorkshire Dales: a lovely place of rolling hills, clear rivers, old stone huts, little villages and hauntingly beautiful moors. Another place worth visiting is Whitby, a picturesque seaside town that is said to have the best seafood in UK (I can vouch for that!).
3. Try some British cuisine. British food is not as bad as some people make it out to be! Must-tries include British-style Fish and Chips, Scampi and Chips, Chicken Tikka Masala and Sticky Date Pudding.
4. It is perfectly understandable to be self-conscious about being a foreigner, and I was like that at the beginning. But there’s no need to be, for the British are generally quite friendly and accepting of foreigners.
5. Participate in British celebrations and festivals if possible. I was immensely lucky to have the opportunity to go to London to witness the Royal Wedding ceremony in April, where I got a glimpse of the Queen and saw Kate ‘n Will kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace!
My semester abroad was an enriching one; through living there and my travels I had a good taste of British culture and way of life. I even got to be present at a key moment in modern British history! It was a semester very well-spent and enjoyed, and that's what truly matters.