Name: Jamie Tay

Country of origin: Malaysia

Degree: BSc Business Management

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Choosing to study in Lancaster and in the UK

I have always wanted to pursue my studies in the UK ever since graduating high school. As I did IGCSE for my high school education qualification and really enjoyed the course and subjects offered, I figured that opting for a UK-based education system for my university studies would be the best route. I first heard about Lancaster University through Sunway University in Malaysia and the option for students to do a 1+2 transfer program which piqued my interest greatly. I did my own research about Lancaster University and even spoke to multiple LU representatives to learn more about the campus and life. The greenery of the campus and the college system really stood out to me, it is unique and different.

Being a Business Management student myself, I also learned that my department LUMS (Lancaster University Management School) is constantly a world-renowned business school, winning multiple awards and constantly ranked highly among other business schools. This gave me the reassurance that I will be receiving quality education at a world-leading business institute.  

With all of this in mind, I worked extremely hard during my first year in Malaysia to make sure that I met the requirements and ultimately managed to secure a spot in Lancaster University.  

Campus life

It might be a secret study spot of mine, but I used to spend most of my time studying or just relaxing and catching up with friends between classes in the new management school or the environment centre.  

The library is great for studying but it does get really packed when it’s closer to the end of term as it’s exam season. Unless you get to the library early in the morning and secure your favourite spot, sometimes it can be difficult to get your favourite seat.  

The new management school has plenty of study areas within the building itself, most of the furniture and fittings are built with a modern concept in mind, ideal for anyone who loves a classy setting! Moreover, most of my classes are situated within the management school, so I do spend most of my free time between classes to catch up with the next lecture in one of the study areas. 

The environment centre has one of the best study areas on campus in my opinion. If you manage to secure a table here, you are in for a treat! The place boasts a high ceiling surrounded by plants and nature which really makes one feel like they are not studying in a university! Highly recommended for those who are extremely environment sensitive.  

Studying Business Management at Lancaster

One thing I really appreciate is the flexibility and diversity of my course – Business Management. Especially during the 2nd and 3rd year, you get a lot of options in terms of modules and majors. 

We were given an option to choose from a variety of management related core modules to major in: from Management, Business Analytics, Marketing, Economics, Accounting & Finance to Entrepreneurship. Within each of these core modules, we were further given the option to choose optional modules to specialise in.  

I have chosen Marketing and Entrepreneurship personally and have thoroughly enjoyed all the optional modules offered. In my final year, the modules become more specific and specialise, which is extremely intellectually challenging yet rewarding. I think the one of the best parts about such specialisation is that I am constantly meeting new people throughout my course due to the course flexibility itself. Exposure at such an early stage is crucial, both for networking and knowledge exchange.

Settling in and feeling welcome

I really value the multiculturalism and intersectionality of Lancaster as a whole. From students to professor and even to locals, it is eye-opening to interact and exchange conversations with people of all walks. Prior to coming to Lancaster, I had fears of not fitting in or even doubts of not meeting like-minded people. I was pleasantly surprised by how embracing and welcoming the people here are, there are a bunch of events or parties going on, especially during the freshers’ week that I recommend you join!  

I think being more independent overall is what I gained most personally during my time here. Living alone and abroad is a scary yet extremely rewarding experience, I gained so many social and life skills which would not have been plausible without living alone abroad.  

These skills may seem irrelevant now, but I think they act as such important transferable skills that may help one in his or her professional life. For instance, I have honed my time management and organisational skills throughout my time here. Balancing my academic studies, club and societies commitments, volunteering and even leisure sports; all these require great organisational skills to accomplish.  

Most importantly, I have met some of the greatest people in my life here, both students and lecturers who have inspired me greatly both in my personal and professional life.  

Support from Lancaster

Most of the lecturers or course conveyors are extremely approachable and friendly both online and in person. Whenever I have questions regarding the course content and structure, I can easily get a response from lecturers which I truly appreciate.  

The student portal is also very well designed with all the information needed. From upcoming campus events to exam timetables, the structure is well thought out and comprehensive to help me derive the most out of my student experience. I remember that during the 3rd year of my course, I tested positive for Covid-19 and had to self-quarantine in my room for nearly 2 weeks. During the time, the university had provided a lot of support mentally and physically such as daily check-ins which helped me feel less worried and anxious.  

Opportunities explored

On the course, there are plenty of seminars going on year-round where speakers from industry giants are invited to give talks. These sessions are beneficial to increase one’s commercial awareness, highly recommended for those who live on campus.  

Once again, I think the flexibility of my course is a great opportunity that provided me much exposure to industry niches. My favourite core module is Entrepreneurship as the optional modules are all specialised and relevant in the 21st century. There are modules which are focused on sustainability and diversity which are really growing trends in the digitalised economy.  

Off the course, I was happy to take part personally in BUCS and the Roses 2022 tournaments. Being part of the Women’s volleyball team has enabled me opportunities to visit and interact with other universities fortnightly. Joining a team sport is one of those things that I highly recommend anyone who is into sports to actively participate in, one of those things to look forward to on the weekends. 

Lancaster community as an international student

Lancaster is a melting pot of culture situated in the most picturesque, lovely town with top-notch education. That might be the most summarised phrase I can use to describe Lancaster University, but I don’t think one sentence can convey how much the University boasts. This leaves no choice but for you to come and experience it yourself! I can reassure you that you will not regret your choice.  

Homesickness is a real issue as an international student. I am going to be honest that the first few months I really experienced homesickness, but this was bound to happen as I have never really been away from my family my whole life, let alone a whole year. With such a bubbly and friendly community at Lancaster, I believe it is not impossible to meet like-minded people and become lifelong friends.  

The community is beyond diverse, with people originating from all around the world. Being proactive plays a big role here, approaching clubs or communities if you are part of a minor ethnic group. There are more than 200 clubs and societies at Lancaster University, and I believe there is always one out there that calls your name!  

Preparing for your future

Beyond the quality education received and the constant constructive feedback received directly from my lecturers, the post-graduate alumni support is great as well.  

As a graduate myself, the careers department has been providing a lot of support to kick start my professional career. From the Alumni LinkedIn group with immense networking opportunities to direct 1-to-1 career coaching with professional career coaches, there are plenty of services provided for a bright career ahead!  

One of the best features I recommend for any student to take advantage of is the Lancaster Award, especially the gold level. Taking advantage of this opportunity will eventually place you ahead of your peers as it is a comprehensive yet attainable scheme compromising of essential life skills such as volunteering and IT skills.  

Lancaster provides the support, community, and opportunities to help any student succeed.

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Disclaimer

The opinions expressed by our bloggers and those providing comments are personal, and may not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lancaster University. Responsibility for the accuracy of any of the information contained within blog posts belongs to the blogger.