We could not actually believe how modern, professional, green and immense the campus is. Discover Guillermo's journey at Warwick and what led them to apply for BSc Economics.

How did you find out about Warwick?

I heard about the University due to its worldly renowned Department of Economics, amongst the best 25 in the world and consistently in the top 4 in the United Kingdom league ratings.

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

Warwick’s revered recognition as one of Britain’s leading universities goes without saying. Campus life was a pillar of my selection, as I I looked forward to benefiting from the dichotomy between the fulfilling nature on campus and the breath-taking activity of cities. Furthermore, the University welcomes thousands of international students from over 150 countries, forming a diverse, supportive and culturally curious community. With more than 300 sport clubs and societies, entertainment is within everyone’s grasp.

How did you feel to be awarded a scholarship?

I felt a sense of both reward and honour. Reward, for being the optimal culmination of a hard-working and excellent academic life in school years. Moreover, I also felt pride: the Global Excellence Scholarship is a new award and this year marks the first cohort of students that receive it, whilst presenting the invaluable opportunity to act in an ambassadorial role of the University.

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

I immediately called my father, who was at the workplace. When he returned home for dinner, he confessed that he had produced an instinctive shriek in his office. For my parents, it eases the financial pressure of studying abroad, thereby confirming my stay.

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

I applied individually with the support of my parents. In an atypical year, with both Covid-19 uncertainty and Brexit's impact on EU status, I dedicated part of my August to submitting the visa application correctly. Therefore, I had to familiarise with the rather long process, for which I highly recommend Warwick's step-by-step guide for international students. Upon submission, in only a few days I had received the confirmation of entry.

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

It simply could not have been better. This year's welcome weekend was very sunny, and I managed to walk around campus with my mother. We could not actually believe how modern, professional, green and immense it is. We were also impressed by my accommodation (Arthur Vick), with a large kitchen and comfortable en-suite room. On top of that, the state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Sports Hub, the Arts Centre or the Department buildings, reinforced our initial impression.

What is the best thing about Warwick?

I could say the campus, the societies, the facilities or the academic and personal support, but I find this is all sustained by a key pillar: the people. Students are not only very intelligent, but also curious and interesting. The staff is supportive and will always be there when you need them. Relevantly, there is a unique sense of community and belonging which I view as unlikely in a city-based University. After all, we all live within minutes of each other!

What is the worst thing?

It is hard to find a bad aspect of the University. I'm perhaps inclined to say that I am missing more face-to-face interaction during this term. Hence, I'm looking forward to the exciting news regarding teaching in the second term!

How is your accommodation?

As pointed out earlier, I cannot be more satisfied with my on-campus accommodation (Arthur Vick). The kitchen is large, with both cooking and resting areas. Regarding the room, I find it very comfortable and spacious. Arthur Vick is also well-located within central campus, and has green surroundings.

Are you a member of any societies?

Yes. I am a member of a number of academic societies, such as the Finance, Economics or M&A societies. The in-person events have given me the opportunity to engage with complex topics such as financial markets or company valuation, as well as providing with much-needed insight into the popular Spring Week.

What are your plans when you graduate?

Although I contemplate the possibility of conducting further study, I hope to thrive in the financial and investment banking sector upon graduating from the University. Ideally, I would leap at the opportunity to apply the skills obtained at Warwick and gain valuable work experience during the early years of my professional career, with the long-term view of thriving in the financial landscape.

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

Focus on the answers and be yourself. What this Scholarship values is why you and what makes you unique: therefore, give the University reasons of your personal excellence and maturity.

What one thing makes you happy about Warwick?

The decision itself of having come to study here. The lifetime bonds you forge, the leading teaching and career prospects, the culturally curious community, the many interesting societies, the inspiring campus and, overall, the university experience.