Hi, I’m Zhihe from China! Transitioning from undergraduate to postgraduate study is a new life experience for me, and it’s also the first time I’ve left home for an extended period. During my time at York, I applied to become an International Student Ambassador. This job has a lot of meaning to me and has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding and experience of campus life. From my personal perspective, I want to share the different educational cultures I have experienced at the University of York, as well as my first experiences of independent living.
About Social Media and Management at the University of York
With the rise and fall of the internet, we have become more connected to each other and the world. Social media and applied information are changing the way we communicate and live. At the same time, journalism, communication, and management majors related to social media are especially ‘hot’ in China, and the freer lifestyle of self-media is also sought after by young people. Because of this, I wanted to conduct more in-depth research and a more systematic study of social media.
The University of York is a university that exceeded my expectations. I learned that the Department of Sociology, where Social Media and Management is based, is ranked first in the UK in terms of research impact and fourth in the UK in terms of overall research. Indeed, through modules such as Understanding Social Media and Researching Digital Life, we learn to identify and analyse the key innovations that new media brings to the table.
Discussion in the Department of Sociology
Another reason I chose the University of York was because of the difference in the educational and cultural experience. York’s diverse educational choices and flexible courses allow me to choose different electives based on my interests and goals. In the process, I can meet more students from different backgrounds and learn about different cultures and experiences. This is a very valuable learning experience for me.
Socialising and learning outside the classroom
Apart from studying, York offers a lot of extracurricular activities. Every Monday, I can receive an email from the Department of Sociology, YUSU and the GSA. It mentions the activities that will be held in the school during the week, which are very varied and offer a wide range of choices. For example: film screenings, volunteering, and language café events. Taking part in different types of activities is a great way to make new friends, learn new things, develop new skills, and have fun; it can really add to your life experience.
Participating in the York Lion Dance to celebrate Chinese New Year
I would like to share a piece of my own experience. When I first came to York, I didn’t immediately get used to the new language environment, so when I communicated with others, I couldn’t express myself completely. I noticed from the YUSU and the GSA emails that there was a Language Café in the school, which could improve my language skills. So I joined this activity every Wednesday and took the initiative to communicate with others in English. And also try to learn the languages of different countries. This is very useful for me. Now I can naturally communicate with local people in English. Therefore, my advice to non-native English speakers who are new to York is to be brave and speak up. When you open your mouth and try to communicate, you are already halfway to victory!
The British Experience
Apart from studying, I also endeavoured to explore British culture and lifestyle. Located in the North of England, York is a very British old city with a very strong historical background. If you love geography, history, and the humanities as much as I do, then you should definitely visit! It’s also very easy to get to seaside towns like Scarborough and Whitby from York. I visited many places of interest, tasted local food, and participated in various cultural activities. These experiences not only enriched my study abroad life but also helped me better integrate into the local society and culture.
York Minster and City Walls
Overall, my study experience at UK university was a valuable experience in my life. I learned to think more independently, solve problems, and expand my academic horizons and interpersonal networks. I believe this experience will have a positive impact on my future career development and personal growth. Hopefully my advice can help more people successfully complete their study journey at the University of York!
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