Remika
Why did you decide that Exeter was the best place to study?
Having been both an international student and one that applied to Exeter through the Clearing process, I knew how important the decision of where to study was. Due to the short turnaround time and pressure on results day, I explored numerous universities but there was something about Exeter which drew me towards it. Additionally, the Clearing process with Exeter was so organised and simple and I heard back from the university quickly. After researching the University and my course online, I decided Exeter would be the perfect fit for me and now having completed a full term I can confirm it was the right decision.
Describe your typical day at Exeter
I think all students would agree that every day is different, but a typical day would include one or two lectures, I tend to have more morning lectures which usually start at 9:30 or 10:30 and can range for 1 or 2 hours. Then I usually grab lunch which some of my subject friends or will walk home, as I live on campus, to grab some lunch and hang out with my flatmates. In the afternoon, I will usually have a lab practical or a seminar which will be run by PhD students and help act as an add-on to the core content covered in the lectures. I’m also part of numerous clubs on campus, one being Model United Nations and I usually attend the debates Tuesday evenings and get to meet everyone else in the club. One thing I am very adamant and keep on track with is going to the gym, I signed up for the yearly membership with the Sports Park gym and this was one of the best decisions I could’ve made – there's also group classes which help keep you motivated. This year I have also picked up a part-time job in town and do that over the weekends and whenever I don't have classes to keep myself busy.
What are the best aspects of studying within your department?
The lecturers are great, all very experienced in their field and from a student's perspective you can tell that they do care about your studies and are always eager to answer questions. I also really appreciate the guest lecturers which come in for certain topics that they are specialised in because this allows us to see psychology in the field and what other job opportunities this course may bring. Furthermore, because there is a large cohort of Psychology students, I love that I can meet new fellow students every day, whether this is in a seminar, lab practical or even walking past someone in the lecture halls. The diverse and large collective of students allows you to feel immersed in different cultures and presents a sense of eagerness to learn from one another.
How would you describe the vibe on campus?
Chaotic and productive, but in the best way. Everyone is going to different places and has different tasks to do but the one thing that brings us all together is that we're all students, and this creates an underlying sympathy and understanding between one another which is nice. Exeter is also diverse and it’s always great seeing different people from around the world, I always love hearing the different accents and languages being spoken on a day-to-day basis when I’m walking around campus.
What activities are you taking part in?
I am currently a part of Model United Nations (MUN), BodySoc (a female exercise group), Exepose (the schools student-run newspaper), and the Harry Styles Society which is probably my favourite club at the moment just because I get to meet other individuals with the same interest as me and we always have the best socials!
What particular skills are you gaining from this experience, will this help you in your choice of career?
Definitely, my ability to adapt to different groups of people and cultures, being around different people and getting to meet someone new every day definitely allows me to grow as an individual and broaden my way of thinking. Personally, I’ve found it very interesting interacting with different ethnic groups and even exploring the different dynamics with my professors and lecturers.
How have you dealt with any difficulties during your time at the University of Exeter?
Being an international student from Thailand (half Chinese and half Indian), I knew there was going to be a big culture shock when I moved to Exeter but I think immersing myself in the challenges and trying to keep busy has definitely kept me both sane and happy. I was lucky enough to have gone to an international school so language barriers were not a struggle for me.
What’s the best thing about living in Exeter?
I love the town! Something about being in a campus town definitely makes me feel safer and content, knowing that most of the people around me are also fellow students.
Would you recommend Exeter to your friends?
100%
Was there anything about your experiences at Exeter that surprised you?
Maybe how quickly I settled in, I was scared I would be very homesick and especially flying across the world from Thailand to Exeter alone and having to move in alone was very daunting to me. But after the first few weeks I developed a routine, got a job and found the most loving group of friends which quickly made Exeter feel like home to me.
What advice would you give students planning on coming to the University of Exeter?
Prepare to be surprised, everything you could have expected to happen probably won’t but it will be the best thing ever. First year has been so great so far and I can’t wait for my coming years.
Has the University been supportive during your time here?
Yes, there is always someone to turn to or ask for advice and assistance, and the university is very open and transparent about asking for help regardless of the topic.
