I really like how inclusive and diverse Warwick is, not just in terms of the students, but also the staff. I have met so many people from different parts of the world, and I always enjoy learning more about their cultures, lifestyles and languages. Discover Divya's journey at Warwick and what led them to apply for BSc Management.

How did you find out about Warwick?

I heard about Warwick a long time before actually applying for it, since I knew other people who have studied here. Additionally, I also saw Warwick in many of the university ranking tables.

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

I chose Warwick over other universities, both in the UK and the world, because of how well reputed it is. I was proud to know that Warwick has been ranked second in the whole of UK for my course, Management. However, I also liked how the course was designed, and the fact that I could specialise in the second year itself. Not many other universities provided that option, so Warwick was the best fit for me.

How did you feel to be awarded a scholarship?

While applying for the scholarship, I wanted to keep my expectations reasonable. When I got the e-mail saying that I have been awarded a generous scholarship, it made me feel as though all the efforts that I put into high school, the overall UCAS application process as well as the scholarship application process, had culminated into this wonderful moment. Since this scholarship was merit-based, I was even more thrilled because it felt like I had "earned" it.

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

The first people that I told about my scholarship were my parents. They were just as delighted as I was - perhaps even more than me.

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

I answered the questions in the scholarship application myself, and my parents and close friends proofread it and suggested changes. My parents helped with most of my visa application and documents. The Covid pandemic did not make the visa process any easier, with the officials at the visa office telling us that there is quite a lot of backlog from the past few months. It was indeed good luck that I got my visa done in time for traveling to Warwick.

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

When I first here, I found Warwick's campus to be very beautiful and aesthetic - it looked even better than in the pictures.

What is the best thing about Warwick?

I really like how inclusive and diverse Warwick is, not just in terms of the students, but also the staff. I have met so many people from different parts of the world, and I always enjoy learning more about their cultures, lifestyles and languages. Besides, the societies and student union are just as diverse, with great representation. Seeing so many people from all over the globe makes me feel included and comfortable.

What is the worst thing?

Despite all the great things about Warwick, I did find that the high number of online lectures were not as interactive as in-person ones. I would prefer to have more in-person lectures, which I hope happens in the near future.

How is your accommodation?

I live in Jack Martin, and so far, I have loved living here. I'm glad I was given my first choice of accommodation. It is centrally located, with most of my classes and other venues being less than a 7 minute walk away. I have met many people in this accommodation, mainly because of its sociable layout, where it is easy to walk through different corridors to talk to new people. Jack Martin is also scenic, making it a delight to wake up and look out my window.

Are you a member of any societies? If so, what have you done with them?

I went to many taster sessions during fresher's week, and I was spoiled for choice since there are so many different societies. Though I have not officially joined any society yet, I plan on joining BandSoc, RAG and Cocktail society.

What are your plans when you graduate?

When I graduate, I hope to secure a job with a large organisation to gain work experience. When I am more equipped and knowledgeable about real-life business practices, I will endeavour to start a business of my own, given that I will be specialising in entrepreneurship and innovation management in my second and third years of my degree.

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

My advice would probably be to answer the questions in the application truthfully and simply. As generic as this advice may seem, it is the most crucial one that I kept in mind while writing my answers.

What one thing makes you happy about Warwick?

I like the feeling of belonging here. From the first week itself, I have found great friends who have made it easy for me to transition from one culture to another starkly different one. I thought I would find it very difficult to adjust but the people and the support provided on campus has helped me become accustomed to the life here. I'm very happy that I came to Warwick and I'm excited to see what the next three years bring.