I found that Warwick has an outstanding global academic reputation, especially within the area of language and intercrural studies that perfectly suites my interest and ambition. It was the original motivation that drove me to apply for Warwick. Discover Yiying's journey at Warwick and what led them to apply for the BA Language, Culture and Communication.

How did you find out about Warwick?

I heard about Warwick from my IELTS teacher, who has spent her four years studying at Warwick for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. We were having a conversation about my future career, and I said I’m truly fascinated by media and cultural related professions，then she recommended Warwick to me without hesitation. After visiting the official website and viewing comments from alumni, I found that Warwick has an outstanding global academic reputation, especially within the area of language and intercrural studies that perfectly suites my interest and ambition. It was the original motivation that drove me to apply for Warwick.

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

I was firstly attracted by the course LCC (language, culture and communication) which is only provided at Warwick. This course is different from other language-related subjects because it isn’t just about understanding the rules and mechanisms behind language, but applying linguistic theories to solve real global issues and improve the world. The UK has always been my dream destination for study abroad, due to its modern facilities and a mix of different unique cultures around the world. Studying in the UK allows me not only to embrace the British culture but also people with various backgrounds interests and cognitions. What I valued the most in choosing universities is how students can benefit from learning there. While Warwick is also recognised internationally for its excellent resources provided to students alongside their studies. Apart from the online library that allows us to read a countless number of academic articles and well-equipped facilities which enable students to access the latest innovations, many courses include an intercalated year to support students to study abroad in other high-ranking partner universities. I believe it will be a rare opportunity to extend my existing knowledge, as well as develop a deeper outlook on different cultures.

How did you feel to be awarded a scholarship?

It was totally unexpected. The standard of admission in 2021 increased dramatically since the situation of coronavirus pandemic has led to an extremely high volume of applications. It never occurred to me that I could stand out from all these excellent offer holders.

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

My mom was right next to me when I got the email from Warwick to be told that my scholarship was enclosed. She wasn’t as surprised as I was，since she thought my answers to the application form was fairly good, and she always emphasize that whether or not to be awarded is not crucial as long as I’ve tried my best.

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

Personally, I think the overall process of application was relatively smooth since I’ve considered most of those questions before I applied to universities. However, I still remember that I was stumped by the inquiry asking how I can contribute to the social and academic communities in Warwick with my scholarship. Then my IELTS teacher gave me some suggestions that I could begin with self-improvement and the enlargement of existing activities of Warwick. And thenceforth, I came up with an idea that I can start making vlogs to record my social life and the study environment in Warwick. As an international student, I found that we have limited access to information like school events and different societies here on campus from the university website due to firewalls. Hopefully, by doing this, overseas students can obtain the sense of living here, while I can acquire some strategies of editing videos at the same time.

For visa application, it will be much efficient to download the Guide for student visa application from Warwick, which you will receive after confirming your place of study. The guidance also includes screenshots of the Home Office websites so you can follow each step easily.

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

Warwick satisfies almost all my fantasies about a university. Each department owns a building that has a unique appearance, students sit on grass, chatting with each other alongside the lake and geese. Sometimes I spend a long time searching for the building where I'm going to have my next class, however, the beauty of the campus makes my walk worthwhile.

What is the best thing about Warwick?

I would say the environment. The whole campus seems like a park, studying in such beautiful place makes me feel relaxed.

What is the worst thing?

In my childhood, I always imagine that my future university owns a huge cafeteria, which serves food from all over the world. Unfortunately, the biggest canteen I've ever been to is the WBS Café, which supplies only four kinds of dishes. Lol

How is your accommodation?

I live in a student accommodation outside the campus. All my flatmates are really friendly, we take turns to clean up the public area of our house and prepare supper together. I reckon that it will be a nice place to start a new life abroad since it makes me feel like being home.

Are you a member of any societies?

I am a member of the Chinese dance team held by Warwick Chisoc (Warwick Chinese society) since I’ve practised Chinese dance for more than ten years. I have always been worried that after coming to the UK, I would suffer a setback because I had no chance to practice. Fortunately, I found a group of people who share the same interest as me. I have already participated in a group training during the first two weeks of the school, and the club leader will organize the weekly training ever since.

What are your plans when you graduate?

I would like to apply for a postgraduate degree to extend the insight I’ve gained so far. To be honest, I am truly passionate about public relations. Hopefully, the courses I’ve studied will lay a solid foundation for me to be prepared for this career, to interact with people efficiently, and to deal with a variety of business crises decently.

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

Firstly, be confident in yourself. Do not quit this opportunity easily just because you are afraid of failure. Secondly, think carefully before you type your answer. Try to recall how your enthusiasm for applying to Warwick has emerged, and organize your ideas clearly and succinctly.

What one thing makes you happy about Warwick?

I would say the people here at Warwick. They all have a strong sense of responsibility and are always willing to offer their support, regardless of whether they are professors, staff, or students. I am so glad to study in such a pleasant environment that they have created.