My life as a student at University of Surrey

Sujay V. shares his experience at University of Surrey.

Q :- You have been one of those highly respected lot of students who have been doing higher studies at University Of Surrey how does it feel to be at University Of Surrey UK?
A :- I am feeling very good. The only issue was that I had to do a lot of research regarding the course before hastily taking a decision.

Q :- Please tell us about which courses you are studying and why you chose that course?
A :- Internet computing because I wanted to pursue my future in the world of networking. Since I had a good idea of networking, I knew that this would be the field for me. The course wasn’t difficult, however I faced issues with software coding since it wasn’t my forte.

Q :- Why did you choose the UK for higher education?
A :- UK had a better market than other countries during the time I made my decision for further studies. There are lots of Indians in UK as well. The second reason I chose UK was because I had the assistance of my friend who came along with me for his higher studies.

Q :- How is University of Surrey different than any other UK University based on whatever you have heard from your friends about?
A :- There is no much difference among the top universities and it only depends on the course each university provides. The only point you need to understand is that the style of education is very different from the Indian education system. I got good guidance in choosing the university from websites like times good university ratings.

Q :- Are you happy with your decision?
A :- That is a difficult question to answer. I’m not totally satisfied however partly satisfied. It was due to lack of time spent on researching, the top courses offered by different universities.

Q :- Where do you live? On-campus or off-campus and why?
A :- I lived on campus because it was my first time in UK. I never had any idea about what to do and where to live. So simply chose to stay on campus just like another overseas student.

Q :- Please share some of your experiences of the UK for aspiring students
A :- UK is a great place for studies. The education provided is pretty good in terms of standard in teaching at universities. They have well equipped labs and other facilities like huge libraries and 24/7 access to departments. Technical assessment and assignments replaces the traditional examination systems. One needs to have a strong hold in English, if they want to study in UK.

Q :- How should students select the UK Universities? What are the important things to look at and compare among various Universities?
A :- Checking the rank and quality of university should always be the first priority. To achieve this, timely investment in research on courses and universities.

Q :- What’s your advice to students who aspire to go to the UK for higher studies?
A :- UK is the best place to study, however students should beware of black marked universities. There are lots of universities which are not reputed and are black listed. Before making any decisions it is important to check the ranking of the university and also the different services provided by the university. Don’t expect to be spoon-fed as in India. Also, one needs to find out, how good is the environment of the university? This can be checked from the previous students who have pursued their studies from that particular university.

Q :- Other than academics, what else did you learn from the country UK?
A :- I was exposed to an international environment, felt the different culture, got to learn lot of new things and overall it was a very good experience. I learnt a lot which I would have never learnt if I had to do my Masters in India. UK is always a good option to do a Masters.

Q :- How are the studies in the UK different than the studies in India?
A :- The education system is very different from the education system here in India. There are no or less examinations as compared to India. UK universities prefer assignments where a student has to submit lot of assignments for which they are graded against. The study pattern is everyday rather than at last moment. This system is quite helpful and will provide a good experience in day to day life.

Q :- Is it worth spending so much money to get a degree from the UK as compared to similar degree in India with lower costs?
A :- It is worth if you are getting a degree in UK. After completing the course in UK there are a lot of opportunities in securing a job in the UK. This will in turn help you to repay the money or the loan invested in one's study. One can even plan to study in USA at lower costs as compared to the UK, as it all depends on one’s decision.

Q :- What’s your advice to parents of aspiring students?
A :- My only advice would be, is to send their children to UK only if they can afford the price. This will definitely help in improving the future of their children. Otherwise, there are a lot of universities, which offer almost the same level of education here in India.

Q :- Key things to remember for parents and students while planning for the studies in the UK
A :- One should be definite on their choice of the university and the course, as these decisions will definitely be effective in their future. Also, one need to have extra financial support, as one is unaware of the kind of expenses that can emerge once is in UK.

Q :- What are the 3 important things you learnt after you entered the UK?
A :- Every country has its own culture and way of living. Nothing is impossible. The result completely depends upon the hard work put in.

Q :- Did you see the movie 3 idiots? Do you relate to that movie? Please share your thoughts.
A :- Yes I did watch the movie; however I do not relate myself to this movie. The movie has a very nice motto behind it, the concept and thinking of the movie is very different and realistic as well. It resonates a good message to the students of this country.

Q :- What are you future plans?
A :- Currently, I am studying and researching on networking fundamentals and will soon focus on finding a job in the same field.

Q :- What are your views about the current economic environment in the UK? Has it changed anything for the students like you?
A :- UK has definitely been affected by the recession and at present the job opportunities are low, but will definitely get better with time. There is high recession in the UK as compared to India. Currently, India has responded and recovered better. Finding a suitable job in the UK is difficult, whereas one can easily find a job in India. There are lots of students returning from UK due to same issue.

Q :- Any other advice to students and parents?
A :- Parents need to be brave and should be willing to take the risk in sending their children overseas for higher education. This will definitely give the students a good exposure and a better opportunity in the industry.

Q :- Any other references you can give us who can answer similar interviews?
A :- No, currently I do not have any references. I will definitely call-back if I remember any.