A student from Russia about International Foundation Programme at University of Kent

EI: Hello, Elizabeth! Tell us a little about yourself. How is it that you were in England?

My name is Elizabeth hryhorchuk. I am 17 years old. I'm from a small town in Tver region of Russia. Before entering the University of Kent in 2016 in the last three years I arrived in England on the average one month during summer vacation and studied English at language schools, located in Canterbury. I was lucky that Canterbury is home to our family friends and here I've combined relaxation and study, feeling very comfortable. In the future, the time has come to think about higher education. The University of Kent fully met the criteria of the University where I would like to learn.

EI: In what year were you enrolled at the University of Kent? Was it your first choice University or have you served somewhere else? What attracted you to this University?

University of Kent was my only choice in England. In Russia, I opted for research University "Higher school of Economics" in Moscow. Next was not a simple choice for me. Higher school of Economics is one of the leading universities of Russia, where I was enrolled on a budget, offered a training program "double degree" with a number of good English schools. But in the end I made a decision to study in Kent: the authority of English quality education, proper study of the English language, a unique opportunity to learn and to communicate with people from all over the world. All in all, this was indeed an invaluable experience.

EI: How did you enter University? Tell us about your experience.

I came to the University without the help of educational agencies. It was easy: all information about required documents and deadlines given on the University website. First of all, I passed the international exam IELTS UKVI registered on the portal UCAS-the official British service receipt of applications for foreign students wishing to pursue higher education in England, filled with the personal data and later sent all the necessary documentation. As applications to the University comes very much with the answer had to wait: I applied in late January, the response received in may. The University offered me a place on the Foundation programme.

EI: if you are Faced with any difficulties when entering University as a foreign student? If so, tell us about it in more detail.

The visa process takes place in two stages. After providing all the required documents and the consent of the student to take a place on the program, the University sends a CAS number that you need to apply for a visa. Only after receiving the CAS numbers the student can submit documents to the British Embassy. The whole process of obtaining CAS numbers and visa takes about a month, so I advise students to prepare all the necessary documents by early August, given the occurrence of some unforeseen difficulties. The same applies to accommodation. If you are going to live in student campuses, please note that the deadline, i.e. the deadline for submission is the end of July. So in order to get one you want, submit a request as early as possible.

EI: does University of Kent scholarships for international students? Do you know of students that have received scholarships?

All students have the opportunity to receive scholarships. I am personally unfamiliar with the students who received them, but I can say that these are here. Kent University provides different scholarships, they can be found on the website.

EI: what program are you studying? What are your impressions of the program? Do you have a favorite subject, teacher?

I'm studying on the International Foundation Programme with the direction of the Law. Foundation Programme is a course for foreign students which helps them prepare for further studies in undergraduate programmes. I'm glad that foreign universities provide this opportunity for students. Training in this program helps to improve academic knowledge and of course knowledge of the language. It should be noted that almost all students, the University provides space for this program, regardless of the result of IELTS. I study three subjects: law, philosophy, Economics. Optional, but mandatory fourth subject called Academic Skills Development. There we learn to write essays, which accounts for almost 80% of all independent work, developing communication skills (participation in seminars), learn to identify and use relevant sources of information for writing essays and more. Professors understand that foreign students are not easy to rebuild from one academic environment to another, that is why we strive to assist. If you have difficulties or questions, you can contact teachers outside school hours, they will always find a way to help.

EI: Who is learning with you in your program? A lot of foreigners, Russian-speaking students? Were you able to have close friends, and who they are – Russian-speaking foreigners, the British? With whom it is easier to find a common language?

On the program there are students from different corners of the world, as well as British students. All very friendly and welcoming. The first day I met many new people that now study and live. The seminars and lectures, the students almost always work in groups that helps them get to know each other.

EI: What do you do in your free time at University? Are you in any student clubs? Tell us a little about it.

In the University of Kent for more than 50 student clubs, ranging from lovers of tea ceremonies to professional players. Here everyone will find an occupation for himself. I do modern dancing, photography and swimming. Such a University community is a great opportunity for people with Hobbies to develop their talents and enjoy love, and for beginners to try themselves in something new. Prior to studying at University, I did a bit of photography, now I know a lot about the subject and practicing. In order to become a member, you need to buy a subscription: annual or per semester. Before that, there are a few free training sessions, where you can decide whether you like it or not.

EI: Tell us a little bit about Canterbury. What are the pros and cons you see for yourself? Easy to find housing, jobs, convenient transportation, and rich if night life?

In my choice of University is largely influenced by, and the city in which it is located. Canterbury is a small town with a rich history and good climate. It is worth noting that the weather is almost the entire autumn is warm and Sunny, rain was a rarity. About the city you can say that it will appeal to fans enjoying the surroundings and historic sites, and for those who want to actively spend time. The city has several historical museums, a huge number of shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs and clubs. There are also several sports centres with swimming pools, gyms, courts etc. it is Important to note that in terms of security, Canterbury is one of the leading English cities. Read and you will learn that there is one of the lowest crime rates in the country. Another advantage, especially important for students, transport. Buses to the University run every 10 minutes, you can buy a UniRider pass as a year, and at smaller intervals (day, week, month, six months, semester). This pass gives you the opportunity to ride the bus not only in Canterbury but also in other nearby cities. The distance to London is relatively small, an hour away by train, two hours by car or bus, which is also important. Nightlife is quite intense. As I said, in Canterbury there are a few Nightclubs and lots of pubs. In the University of Kent also has bars and a night club Venue, very popular among students (entrance allowed from 18 years).

EI: What are your plans after graduation? Where would you like to live and work in the future – in England, in Russia or somewhere else?

After graduation, I will receive the diploma of the lawyer, the expert in the field of law. I haven't decided exactly what direction to choose, but most likely it will be private law. After graduation, I would like to return back to Russia, but never lose the connection with the UK. Perhaps this is why I will try to find a job in an international company.

EI: Thank you so much for this interview! What would you like to say in closing to our readers?

Finally, I would like to note that the University of Kent is called The UK's European University. Here students from different countries of the world, this place of cultural integration, allowing young people to develop knowledge about the world through communication and training. This is the place where everyone can find himself: to develop talent, create a business, make friends and get a solid education. I can say that, those who are considering University of Kent as the future place of study, making the right choice. University of Kent- ranking University in the UK, and this is no accident.

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