Godfrey Wong is studying in the Department of Architecture & Civil Engineering.
Applying to Bath
I came from Hong Kong but I have been studying in the UK for six years. I chose to study in the UK as the style of learning suits me and I find it more enjoyable.
The application process for Bath was very simple, and there was a constant flow of information for prospective students. The University of Bath website provided essential information and I could always email the University when I need answers to any application questions.
I had a lot of questions about what grades I required and what criteria I needed to meet. The Admissions team reviewed my questions and gave me solutions to any issues. This included answering questions about IELTS scores and English grades, which was a common question among international students.
My first few weeks at Bath
I was very nervous when I arrived at Bath and wasn't sure what I was doing. I was given instructions by the Student Representatives before collecting my keys and going to my accommodation. I met my flatmates for the first time in the kitchen and we introduced each other and talked about Freshers' Week.
My main challenge was getting used to living on my own and taking care of my cooking, laundry and cleaning. I think this is the first great step in any student’s life to becoming an independent person. It became something I had to get used to really quickly.
The most efficient way I found to get used to living independently was by talking to other students to see what they were doing. I was lucky to be living with 12 other students, so we shared what we knew about the University and helped to solve each other's problems.
If you are having issues with getting used to university life, there are many different people you can talk to within the University community, including peer mentors, personal tutors, and the Student Services team. They can give advice and support when you need it.
Studying as an international student
Studying abroad might sound scary, but it has been a very rewarding experience for me. I have learned so much and have grown so much over this journey. I've learnt to solve problems using resources I have available to me, and how to make important decisions on my own. This is not something you can be taught, it is something you need to experience.
I found my first few lectures very different from lessons at college. They lasted longer and there were a lot more people there. It took a bit of courage to ask questions in front of everyone, and the way information is presented was different from college. Learning feels more passive at university level so there is more flexibility in the pace you want to study at. I always talk to my personal tutor when I have questions about my course. When I receive any exam results, we discuss them and work on what I should focus on for my next exam.
While I was studying in Bath, I had a lot of questions about my visa and my course, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Student Immigration team provided information about these issues on the website and through emails. This allowed me to prepare for my return to the UK and let me know how my attendance would be monitored over the year.