I believe that the UK is the best place in the world to study for a degree in the field of social sciences, as it is very inspiring for a student to have the opportunity to study in a place that has contributed so much to our current political, legal, and philosophical state of affairs. Discover Elena's journey at Warwick and what led them to apply for the BA Politics, Philosophy and Law (PPL).

How did you find out about Warwick?

I have heard about Warwick from my university advisor at my previous school and a few friends which are currently studying here.

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

Firstly, I chose a university in the UK over others in the rest of the world due to the country’s reputation for excellent universities and the extensive network that they provide for the students and graduates. I believe that the UK is the best place in the world to study for a degree in the field of social sciences, as it is very inspiring for a student to have the opportunity to study in a place that has contributed so much to our current political, legal, and philosophical state of affairs.
The reason why I chose Warwick over other universities is due to its high academic achievement, dedicated and hard-working students and tutors, and the lively social community and integrated campus. Not only was I impressed by the accomplishments of the university and the exceptional feedback given by alumni of the facilities and tutors, but I was enchanted to see that academic excellence is perfectly blended with an integrated and culturally rich student community.
My research, alongside stories, heard from alumni, convinced me that the University of Warwick will be the perfect environment for me to be able to excel academically whilst socializing with other open-minded students, which creates a perfectly harmonized environment that is very rarely met by other universities, especially at such high standards.

How did you feel to be awarded a scholarship?

I have felt truly honoured to be awarded a scholarship. The feeling which I had after receiving the news is indescribable, having felt that my hard work has finally paid off and I was recognized and congratulated for my achievements. It has felt like a dream which came true.

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

I will never forget the ecstatic look on my father’s face when I have told him that I was awarded a scholarship. He was overwhelmingly happy and told me how proud he was of my achievements, which made me feel greatly appreciated and honoured that I have the possibility of obtaining a scholarship and that I can share this incredible moment with my family.

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

I have received meaningful feedback on my application form from my university advisor at my previous school, to whom I will be forever grateful for all the help and support that she has offered. Fortunately, I didn’t have any major difficulties with my visa application or the form.

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

When I first arrived on campus I was delighted. Although I was tired from a long flight, I was instantly absorbed by the lively atmosphere here. One of the most fascinating things for me personally was the harmonious combination between the excitement and restlessness of the students who were roaming around making friends and the beauty of nature around me. I was enchanted to see squirrels and little bunnies hopping around in this majestic autumnal landscape, which was also filled with chatter and friendly faces. I was impressed by the efficacity of the staff, who was very helpful in providing us with information and guiding us. I was also pleasantly surprised by the size of the campus, which makes the university feel like a small city in itself, a safe bubble for its students.

What is the best thing about Warwick?

The best thing about Warwick, in my opinion, is the lively social community and integrated campus. It feels great being surrounded by open-minded and hard-working international students, who share the same values as I do and have similar goals in life. I also love the extensive network provided by the university and the wide range of opportunities to get involved and gain experience.

What is the worst thing?

Although I have to argue that this is only due to the current situation of the pandemic and that the administration has done everything in their power to accommodate us and make the best out of the situation, I have to say that the only bad thing about Warwick is the fact that I have a small number of contact hours every week. Having online lectures takes away the social interaction from learning, which makes it a bit difficult, but the university deserves to be praised for still managing to make their students feel connected despite these difficult times.

How is your accommodation?

I am currently living in an accommodation on campus, in Arthur Vick, and I find it absolutely delightful. It is fairly close to the center of the campus which is a great advantage, as I am very close to the library and all buildings where my seminars take place. I am very satisfied with all the facilities and have accommodated very well.

Are you a member of any societies?

I am currently a member of the Law Society and the Debating society. As part of the Law Society, I have participated in an applications and skills workshop, where we get direct feedback and help regarding applications for obtaining internships or job opportunities. I have also participated in the first-year mooting competition, which I found very entertaining, as it is a new and challenging experience that gets me out of my comfort zone, where I get to apply already existing skills, such as debating, in new situations. Furthermore, I have participated in a few introductory sessions of the debating society, where I became more familiar with the British Parliament style of debate.

What are your plans when you graduate?

I am not yet sure what exactly I want to work as or what I will do after graduating, but I have a strong ambition and desire which will definitely be decisive towards guiding me in my career choices. I have set myself the goal of bringing positive changes into the world by helping victims of social and judicial injustices. Although I would love to be a part of such meaningful and large-scale changes, I strongly believe that grassroots initiatives of fighting for the justice of regular citizens will have a strong and positive impact, not only on their lives but on their community as a whole, as major positive changes can only occur one step at a time. I certainly believe that the PPL degree will not only provide me with the necessary legal knowledge to attain this, but it will further shape my understanding and knowledge of the legal and political worlds.
I see myself working in a field related to international law, due to my passion for politics, as, in the current political climate, the applicability of international laws is dependent on relations between countries.

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

The only meaningful piece of advice which I can give in this situation is: be yourself. As cliché as it may sound, I believe that it is the most important advice and also a generally common mistake which is made by someone who is applying for a scholarship. The pressure of this application, combined with the desire to impress in order to achieve your goals can make you question who you truly are and what you aspire to do, which will make you lose your sense of self. Hence, the most important thing is to stay true to yourself, acknowledge all sides of your personality, and put them forward, as this shows confidence and courage, which is greatly appreciated and taken into consideration when it comes to such as important decision.

What one thing makes you happy about Warwick?

As broad and vague as this may sound, I have to say that the one thing which makes me ecstatic about Warwick is the people. From my module leaders, who are restlessly answering our questions and preparing materials every week, to the seminar tutors who are guiding and helping us understand the subject better, I feel so happy to be in an environment full of dedicated people who are here to help you, no matter what or when. Seeing how open-minded and sociable the people are, makes me incredibly happy that I have chosen to study here and be surrounded by such pro-active, devoted, and lively people.