French and English BA – 2027
The Careers and Employability Service has been so useful with the countless opportunities that they have available. Through this service, I have joined the Explore Teaching scheme in which I attend a secondary school once a week to gain work experience in a classroom setting and to explore whether a career in teaching is an avenue I would like to consider.
Why did you choose the University of Westminster?
As a mature student, I was initially interested in a Foundation course to see if returning to university after 10 years was something I really wanted to do. The University of Westminster offered an exciting Foundation programme that allowed me to springboard into my current degree choice with more confidence and the development of the crucial academic skills required for university. The extensive range of international opportunities alongside studying confirmed that Westminster was the right choice for me.
How has your experience been studying in London?
It is said that ‘London is the global crossroads’ and I truly believe that some of the best opportunities can be found here, so the bonus of studying in the heart of London makes the university experience even better. I was born and raised in London and for many, living and working in this city is the ultimate career aspiration. The abundance of London’s culture, history and architecture is all within touching distance of the University and there is no better place to interact with an extensive range of diverse people, backgrounds and experiences than in London.
What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?
In French, I enjoy the small seminar groups and the immersion into all aspects of the language, history and culture. Each week we have a dedicated hour for French conversation in groups of 1-3 about cultural issues, which has hugely boosted my confidence in public speaking and preparing for real-world scenarios. There is no room for shyness and the lecturers make you feel confident and comfortable, which is essential. In Literature, the numerous opportunities to visit art galleries and museums as supplementary to the course provide another level of cultural enrichment that would not have been possible anywhere else.
How have you found academic support as part of your studies?
The support has been truly invaluable. My lecturers and seminar leaders genuinely care, and their specialist knowledge makes it so easy to approach them with any worries or issues
Tell us about your experience of using the University Careers and Employability Service
The Careers and Employability service has been so useful with the countless opportunities that they have available. Through this service, I have joined the Explore Teaching scheme in which I attend a secondary school once a week to gain work experience in a classroom setting and to explore whether a career in teaching is an avenue I would like to consider. I have also been part of the Westminster Working Cultures UK initiative which gave me invaluable insight into employment culture in the UK and the opportunity to network with professionals and Westminster alumni. There was also a lovely day trip to Cambridge!
Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course
Outside of my course, I have signed up for a British Sign Language introductory course, which was offered for free through university. This is such an invaluable skill that would be beneficial in the classroom if I ultimately decide to pursue a career in teaching.
What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?
Although Westminster is not a ‘campus-based’ university, it really does become a home-from-home. There are so many resources, social spaces and study rooms that it is easy to create your own sense of community. Meeting people and making friends is inevitable with the many events that are held throughout the semesters, but the best thing to do is attend an Open Day to experience what life could be like here at Westminster.
What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?
The support that Westminster provides is really encouraging. From Foundation Scholarships to Cost of Living grants, the university prioritises the well-being of students to ensure that they are happy and well supported and understand that living in London can often have its financial implications.
What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?
The Regent Street campus is close to the BBC Broadcasting House, so you often come across many people from TV and radio!