One of the main reasons I decided to choose Warwick was due to the "bubble" campus, as it made me feel safer to know that I would be surrounded by peers as opposed to having to navigate my way around a city. Discover Amy's journey at Warwick and what led them to apply for BSc Biological Sciences.

How did you find out about Warwick?

In order to evaluate the different options that universities provided specifically for my course, I examined university league tables with regards to life sciences. Doing so lead me to believe that the University of Warwick had a strong life sciences program with high student satisfaction rates. In addition, I have family living relatively close to the university, and so I have been fortunate enough to visit and admire the campus in the years leading up to my current studies here.

Did you consider studying anywhere else? What made you choose Warwick?

The university's life sciences program is well recognised and seems to have a high student satisfaction rate, which encouraged me to apply here and pursue a degree I really enjoy. One of the main reasons I decided to choose Warwick was due to the "bubble" campus, as it made me feel safer to know that I would be surrounded by peers as opposed to having to navigate my way around a city.

How did you feel to be awarded a scholarship?

I was both surprised and honoured to have received a scholarship out of the thousands of students that had applied for this program. Despite the challenges that the IB and COVID19 pandemic simultaneously provided me with, I look back on my school career with pride and am glad to have strived to work harder to be where I am now.

Who was the first person you told when you received the news about your scholarship and how did they react?

When I received the email about the scholarship I told my parents immediately, who were very happy to hear that I had qualified for one of the scholarships.

How did you apply and did anyone help you with your application form and visa application?

As an international student, I looked forward to the opportunities that studying in the UK would provide me with; however, the tuition was definitely something I had to keep in mind, especially because I wanted to keep opportunities open for my two younger sisters in the future. I applied through the email that was sent when I received my offer and spent time considering my answers for the essay questions.

What was your first impression of Warwick when you first walked around the campus?

I was definitely in awe of some of the newer buildings on campus; coming from Tokyo, I am used to being surrounded by modern and clean buildings. While the atmosphere of the campus is distinctly different from Japan, the modern architecture and design made me feel a lot more comfortable and I was glad to have been able to come to such a nice campus.

What is the best thing about Warwick?

I enjoy the 'bubble' campus aspect of the university, as it provides a safe space for students to get to know each other and become familiar with their new surroundings. The nature surrounding the campus is also very calming and makes me feel more welcome.

What is the worst thing about Warwick?

Contrary to what I have written above, I sometimes feel that having a 'bubble' campus can be a negative aspect in terms of not being able to go out easily or be able to interact with 2nd/3rd year or postgraduate students. Currently with the effects of the ongoing pandemic, I also struggle to stay motivated to manage my time considering that all of my coursework is online.

What are you first impressions of your accommodation?

I am currently staying in Jack Martin, which I enjoy being in - initially my impression was that rooms were smaller than I expected, particularly the kitchen, but after fully moving in and decorating my own room it feels much more like 'home'. I enjoy being able to stay on an on-campus accommodation as it makes attending society / sport events a lot easier, and helped me get to know a variety of different people from different courses. All of my flatmates have been very kind and respectful, so overall I would say I am glad to have been placed in this accomodation.

Are you a member of any societies?

I am a member of Biosoc, Japan Society, and the University of Warwick Archery Club (UWAC). I joined Biosoc as a way of getting to know other people on my course, and have been to a few social events that lead me to meet new friends. Although I have not attended many Japan Society events, it did allow me to connect with Japanese exchange students, half-Japanese students, or Japanese international students with similar experiences like mine. Joining the UWAC was something new that I decided to challenge, as I had no previous experience with archery. Looking back on it I am really glad to have taken the initiative to make that decision and try something new, as it has been extremely enjoyable so far and I aim to continue attending throughout my time here.

What are your plans when you graduate?

I hope to be able to work in a career field related to my degree that I enjoy and am passionate about, and that I look back at my time here without regretting the chances that I have missed.

What would you say to someone considering applying for an Undergraduate Global Excellence scholarship at Warwick, what would it be?

Even if you don't feel confident about applying for this scholarship, or are stressed about not knowing how to best present yourself, keep in mind that university is an opportunity to grow and learn.

What one thing makes you happy about Warwick?

I enjoy the atmosphere of the campus and the abundance of nature.