Case Study 3

The first reason I chose to study here was because of the Fresh Talent Initiative—that made Scotland my first choice. Secondly, I wanted to enjoy Scotland's beautiful scenery.

The teaching staff at Glasgow University are excellent. I like the facilities, especially the sports centre and the library. The people in Scotland are so friendly—although I find the local accents difficult to understand. The transportation is excellent here. The scenery is beautiful, but I don't always like the weather!

I was able to find out about job opportunities through the Glasgow University Careers Service website (add link?) and from the Prospects website (add link?). I found that the most difficult aspects of getting work was language—it can be a real difficulty especially for Chinese students—and getting the right visa. I didn't find the job interview very difficult and easily got a part-time job as a waiter.

I would like to stay in Scotland after I've finished studying. I'd like to gain much more international experience which will benefit me in my future career. I'd also like to get to know more about Scottish culture. I will apply for the Fresh Talent visa because I want to live here. I've already applied for a placement with Morgan Stanley through Glasgow's Club 21 programme. I'd like to do that, find another job or study some more.

I would tell incoming International Students to work perhaps for a year or two and gain some experience before applying to do further study in Scotland. Do a lot of research about the university you want to attend before you arrive. Make sure you practice speaking English as much as you can before you come! Have a clear plan in mind: 1 year [if you are doing a Masters] is a short time—if you can prepare a little before you get here, you'll get much more out of it.

Chinese student, MSc International Marketing Management,
University of Glasgow (2006)