Annalucia Bellisario

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

The University of Westminster was my ‘welcome to London’ back in 2020 when I started my bachelor’s degree. My experience over the years has been extremely positive - not just because of the learning and development, but also thanks to the incredible academic support I received. My tutors guided and helped me to choose what has now become my master’s course. The support has truly been amazing!

How has your experience been studying in London?

Studying in London has opened so many doors. As an international student, it was great to be in such a diverse environment, with support from tutors, staff, and the wider student community.

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

I particularly enjoyed the wide range of elective modules on offer. This gave me the opportunity to shape and adapt the course to suit my interests. I came from a background in Tourism and Events Management, with a growing interest in urban tourism and the impact of events on cities.

Modules such as Land Use Planning and Transport Management, Streets, Places and Active Transport, and Modifying Transport Behaviour gave me the chance to explore the side of transport planning I feel closest to. Through this, I became even more passionate about urban change, pedestrianism, and healthy streets.

My class was mostly made up of people already working in Transport Planning, which made it even more stimulating. Looking back, I’m proud of how much I’ve grown on this journey - and I’m incredibly proud to have graduated with a Distinction in Transport Planning.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

The academic support has been great. I had regular check-ins with my personal tutor throughout the course, and he made sure I was keeping up with the workload and that the course was aligned with my interests and career goals.

After completing my master’s, one of my tutors from my bachelor’s course connected me with the Bus Centre of Excellence (part of the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation, CIHT), where I now work as a Bus Policy and Engagement Officer.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course

As part of the Streets, Places and Active Transport module, we had the opportunity to go on several guided tours in London, led by external industry experts.

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

Make the most of it! The library is fantastic - both the online and physical resources are extensive, and you can get hold of books within minutes. The reservation and lending process was smooth and stress-free. Even if a book isn’t available, you can request it through the portal.

The study spaces were also excellent - I think it’s where I spent most of my time!

I’d also recommend joining at least one society - they’re fun. And I can’t forget the free gym at the Regent Campus. I didn’t use it as much during my postgraduate studies, but I was an avid gym-goer during my Undergraduate degree.

Really try to use everything Westminster has to offer. Be involved in classes and remember that lecturers and professors are there to support you - they want to see you succeed.

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

The community. Beyond securing my current job at CIHT with the help of a tutor, some of my closest friends to this day are people I met in my first year. Being based in central London is also a huge bonus.

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

The student reps last year were amazing. They organised free breakfasts until 9am and very affordable lunches. I also remember how attentive they were to period care - free sanitary products were regularly stocked in the main toilets.