Cherry
Academic
Studying at Exeter provided me with a new perspective of how education should be and taught me to study with a positive attitude.
In light of the coronavirus, lectures, seminars and personal tutorial meetings are all pre-recorded or held real-time on Zoom and Skype. Despite the time difference, I found online classes very interactive because I was able to communicate with the academics right away when I had questions in mind. Oral assessments and exams have been changed to written submissions and online exams. With the support of the University, students were given clear instructions on how the exams would be held, including the no-detriment policy and the new policies to regulate academic honesty in non-invigilated examinations.
Opportunities and social connections
My top tip to making friends is open yourself up and mingle with people of all ages, genders, races and interests. I met a group of friends that I will be living with next year and my housemates are from the UK, US and India. I chose to stay in a house with mixed nationalities because I want to experience group living with different habits and culture. I also joined several societies and sports clubs, such as Exeter Law Society, Body Society and Muay Thai. Joining societies exposed me to different people, networking skills and culture.
During my free time, I volunteer for the Exeter community and I help the vulnerable to walk their dogs. I enjoyed this volunteer project a lot partly because I love animals and as it gives back to society.
Over the past few months Exeter has been a very supportive community. During the pandemic, the University alone has provided a lot of support and updates in regards to studying, and made arrangements for students who are unable to leave for home to stay on campus.
My advice for future students
I understand how difficult and unforgettable this year has been for Hong Kong students, to experience all the local protests and now battling against the coronavirus pandemic. Undoubtedly, it may impact your public exams to a certain extent.
As a student who experienced hardship and personal circumstances, my personal advice is to believe in yourself and have confidence that you can overcome any obstacles. Be fearless and put in all the effort in your public exams. Do not underestimate yourself and work extra hard on your English exams and your elective subjects. At the end of the day, you will realise how your hard work and experiences all contribute to your success.
