A student of St.-Petersburg about graduate school at the University of York

EI: hi! Tell us a little about yourself (Where are you from? How old are you?). How is it that you were in England?

Hi! I'm from Saint-Petersburg, I am 23 years old. I am now studying at postgraduate (PhD) at the chemistry Department. My training was funded by a pharmaceutical company, and by grants from the University of York.

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

York, I was attracted by the fact that it is a huge University with excellent equipment in the laboratories, a large library (24/7) and access to electronic resources. You can also attend lectures not only on your Department but also choose them from the big base skillsforge to pull up, for example, academic writing, math skills or something. Everything is done for students!
When I was choosing a University, it looked more on the theme of the research group and articles of the supervisor to which you want to go. York is one of the largest research centres in England. The articles produced by scientists at the University of York, are published in internationally renowned journals and have a high impact factor.
From the University to the city center 15 minutes by bus. The town itself is small, old, very beautiful, the safest for student life. Also there are huge shopping complexes.

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

In order to apply for the PhD, I needed a master's degree in chemical Sciences, the international English language test, IELTS not lower than 6.5 and interviewed with the supervisor, which was conducted via Skype.

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

I have some serious difficulties have arisen. A lot of useful information for any questions you can find on the website of the University of York. If I still had doubts, all my emails were quickly answered by the staff of the University from the Graduate Office and Admission Office, for what to them many thanks!
Also difficulties have arisen, in order to move with her husband. My husband is Tier 4 Dependent visa, which allows you to work full time.

EI: does University of York scholarships for overseas students? Do you know of students that have received scholarships?

I got a scholarship from the University as an overseas student and I know students, who also received funding through scholarship programs the University of York. I will not enumerate now these programs because a lot of them. You can learn about them on the University website under the sections on funding.

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

I'm in graduate school (PhD by Research) in chemistry. In graduate school not a lot of lectures, the emphasis on research (research), but nevertheless you need to choose some theoretical and practical courses offered. These usually relate to subjects of your own research. They don't take a lot of time and exams is not necessary.

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?

At the University many foreigners, so don't feel like "black sheep". Also there are different communities (student clubs), including Russian, Kazakh, Lithuanian and many others that were created by the students to spend time together and to organize activities related to the culture of their country. When I went to England, I thought I'd be the only Russian in York. I was surprised when I met more than 10 Russian guys, and the city from time to time I hear Russian speech.
In my lab, there is no Russian, but with English and foreign relations are very friendly, everyone is always ready to help or just to chat.

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

In my spare time I love to walk around the city. In the city library you can purchase a pass to visit the main museums free of charge. Several times I have participated in movie night, game night and pub quiz, which was organized by the Russian community. I enrolled in one of the dance clubs. As well as go to sports center which is very close to the University.

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

York is a small town which has everything you need for a fun and comfortable student life. The only negative is the exorbitant price of the cars. Insurance and tax on a car in England costs more than the machines themselves. In Russia my husband had a car from here it had to be abandoned. But given the free buses on campus and the General British habit of Cycling and walking, therefore where there are many bike paths and cars give cyclists the road, no cars don't seem to be the problem, but rather a reason to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
About jobs, I can say that none of my friends graduate earns in the city. Some work part time at the University. Much volunteering is paid for and the University itself does mailing if you receive a job. Many undergraduate and master's students work part time in cafes, hotels and firms. Career centre at the University can help to make a resume and find a job.
Transport is no problem, buses run around the city in different areas in the city centre and on the outskirts to the big shopping malls. If necessary, you can call a taxi, students are given a 10% discount. On campus, free buses.
The nightlife of York is diverse and safe. On Fresher''s week, the University has arranged several tours to clubs with the accompanying senior students. And in General every Thursday night, students go out to clubs and pubs, many of which are in York for every taste.

EI: Tell us where are you working now (if working) and in what capacity? Do you think your education at York helped you obtain this job?

I'm am a first year PhD and do not work anywhere else permanently. The University pays great attention to not only knowledge on specialty but also the so-called transferrable skills, i.e. skills that can be useful in any job.

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?

I'm equally positive about further opportunities in Russia, England or somewhere else. In my case it also depends on the career of her husband. I'd be happy to return to work in Russia closer to the family. But also I would be interested to work in a foreign company on good terms. Another option is to continue my studies in the University as post-doctoral research fellowship.

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

I think choosing York, you will never regret, and these few years of study will fly by, before you know it! I'm sure the experience here will change your attitude to life, forced to be more responsible, more creative, and to go through life smiling with your head held high!