When I think about my journey to the University of Surrey, it was a long process of uncertainty and university applications, but it was all worth it. My name is Ivanna, and I am originally from Mexico. After living in Mexico for the first eight years of my life, I moved across different countries in Europe and the Middle East until the end of my adolescence. Each place filled me with curiosity, shaped my perspective and prepared me for the adventure of studying abroad.
The Search for the Right University
What all the students have in common I’m sure, is that the university application process is overwhelming and in my case scary as I didn’t necessarily have a specific place in mind of where I wanted to study or live; and that’s completely okay. I was sure that I wanted to study biological sciences and I wanted to attend a university that offered lots of hands-on experience, good laboratory facilities and a diverse international community. I for sure recommend to at least compile a couple of goals which makes the filtering process easier. Considering my priorities, I sent in applications to various universities in Europe and the UK. Each application required a personal statement and specific research. Although I spent a lot of time filling out lots of applications and doing research for different universities I always felt myself coming back to the University of Surrey. I felt drawn to it because what I felt about the university was that the place felt so welcoming and the academics looked great.
Why Surrey?
After I received various offers and deciding that I wanted to focus on studying in the UK, I ended up deciding to go with the University of Surrey because it stood out to be for many reasons:
- The campus: The campus at Surrey is surrounded by greenery which provides a peaceful environment, great for living a more quiet life, allowing me personally to focus on my studies but also have a social life without the rush of the city life.
- Hands-on learning and laboratory training: Since I wanted to study biological sciences, having access to extensive laboratories and equipment was essential.
- A diverse community: Being an international student, I know I thrive in diverse communities filled with people from various different countries, including international students. Surrey has a large community of worldwide students, facilitating making new friends by meeting people under similar circumstances.
- Proximity to London: While Guildford is a small town, I saw that London was very close by in just under an hour train lies a big city full of opportunities and activities.
- Societies: The university of Surrey provides a lot of sports teams and other types of clubs catered to every hobby which was a huge interest for me as, I enjoy playing sports during my free time, this would allow me to meet new people as well and have a balance between academics and a social life.
Life at Surrey After Joining and Some Tips
Since being at Surrey, I have not once regretted choosing this university, it has provided me with all the right components to make a great university experience. Now that I am in my fourth year I can say that I definitely recommend having a campus based university in a quieter town with easy access to a big city so I can focus on my studies during the week and enjoy the campus, and on the weekend have a city getaway. I have also joined clubs and met a lot of people from diverse backgrounds while studying here. I recommend to make a list like the one above with factors that you are looking for and if the university matches it to find a university that truly is for you. If the “Why Surrey?” list appeals to your interests, I recommend the university of Surrey.
