"I am in the best possible place for what I want to do with my life. Even though I could talk again about the excellent program, campus, resources available and friends, the calmness of being sure that you are happy where you are is the best part."

Discover Miguel's journey at Warwick and read the story of what led him to study his BA in Film and Television Studies with us from 2021-2024.

Course:

BSc in Film and Television Studies

Study Dates:

2021-2024

How did you find out about Warwick?

I was looking at rankings for my course online and Warwick always appeared to be on the higher tier. Upon further individual research of the university I got more and more invested both in the program and the university as a whole.

Did you consider applying to anywhere else? What made you choose Warwick?

I knew I wanted to study in the UK because of their superior academic level of teaching. Further, for my specific course I felt that it vastly covered the theoretical aspect which was important for my goals for the future. I came to the UK to visit several universities and Warwick strongly stood out, not only because of the kind welcome which I received but also for the academic and social atmosphere.

How did it feel to be awarded a scholarship?

It felt amazing. I will never forget the euphoric moment when I received the email. It made me feel specially welcomed into the university and that all of my hard work had paid off. I couldn't stop smiling all day and we had a big celebration at home.

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

I was in the car with my dad and brother and I quickly read the information and when I read "congratulations" and "full scholarship" I screamed. They both knew that over those last weeks I had been quite anxious waiting for an email with details about whether I had got a scholarship or not. My dad pulled over the car and gave me a big hug and my brother proudly joined in. I then called my mom and she together with my grandma got really emotional and thrilled.

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

I perfected my application and had some family members read it to see if it was clear and if my personal voice and mentality were present on the application. My visa was quite a stressful process. As I finished school on December I had a long break and the wait for university felt quite long despite of the fact that I found ways to keep busy. I wanted to get the visa out of the way but I had a long wait before I could start it and I was scared that there would be a mistake and I would have to do it again especially as there wasn't much time left until the first week.

How was your arrival? What were your first impressions of the University?

It was a feeling of belonging. As I had already visited the university I knew what was expecting me but I still felt so exhilarated on the first day. I felt that maybe I had hyperbolised the picture of Warwick in my mind, yet I wasn't disappointed at all. Even now, when I've been here almost a month, the campus feels magical, from the busy piazza to going through the green spaces and watching the squirrels run when heading to my accommodation.

What is the best thing about Warwick?

Even though the program and the campus come close, I would honestly say the people. From the professors to the fellow classmates. On my first day I was quite nervous of not getting along with my flatmates but when I got there everyone was so warm and unique in their own way. We must have spent about six hours talking and there I got some of my closest friends. Walking through campus you always run into someone and it feels that every time you go out or join a new society you are exposed to new friends.

What is the worst thing about Warwick?

The worst thing is maybe in my case the long walk I have to make from my accommodation to central campus. In spite of this, the views are amazing, it gives me a nice time to reflect and plan my day and you can always rent or buy a bike .

What are your impressions of your accommodation?

I really enjoy my on campus accommodation. We are constantly getting together in the common room and I feel like anytime I get bored or need a distraction I can knock on a flat neighbour and just relax for a while. My room and view is also outstanding so I never feel claustrophobic and even though I was nervous on the idea of shared bathrooms I find it rare to run into someone so that feeling of privacy is also present.

Have you joined any clubs or societies?

Yes, I joined several societies and even though I haven't socialised with all of them the ones I have were really rewarding. Being able to meet people similar to me or with similar interest is always enjoyable and I have always managed to have fun in activities like watching a film or going out.

What do you hope to do when you graduate?

I feel that there are many things which I would like to do when I graduate. Now I am especially interested in film distribution and business and being able to travel quite a bit to be exposed to different cultures. Nonetheless, I don't disregard more practical film work in the future nor a possible teaching career when I'm older. I feel that I have a certain idea of what I want but I also am open minded to the different opportunities that will be available for me as well as how the university and my program will help me be more sure of not only my future goals but of myself.

If you could give a piece of advice to someone considering applying for an Undergraduate Global Excellence scholarship at Warwick what would it be?

I would probably advise to make sure that your voice comes through in what you're saying. Try to be original and show your uniqueness and value as much as you can, because from the large number of applicants trying to perfect their answers the main thing is standing out by being true to who you are.

What one thing makes you happy about Warwick?

The fact that I know that I am in the best possible place for what I want to do with my life. Even though I could talk again about the excellent program, campus, resources available and friends, the calmness of being sure that you are happy where you are is the best part.