Yun-Chen Chang

Position
Talking about
Postgraduate pre-sessional English

I’m Yun-Chen. I’m from Taiwan. I studied Business Administration as an undergraduate. I was a little unfamiliar with the teaching mode and writing method in the UK, as well as the contents of the Masters programme. Therefore, I decided to join the pre-sessional course to train my ability in advance. 

What aspects of the pre-sessional course did you enjoy?   

I was most impressed by the teaching methods and assignments in the pre-sessional course. The teachers teach according to each student's progress and interact with us. The teachers are very attentive and patient. No need to worry about whether you are asking a very elementary question or not. They will take every question seriously and make sure you understand it completely.

The assignments are related to human resources, which allows us to gain a more comprehensive understanding of human resources throughout the pre-sessional course, and the presentation part also allows us to practise different modes of assignments.

How did studying on the pre-sessional help you on your degree course? 

The pre-sessional course is particularly important as the formal degree course does not detail how to write a thesis. From how to start a paper and cite literature, to how to organise a conclusion, the teachers will explain to you and teach you in detail.

What have you enjoyed the most about your time at Leeds?

Definitely the lifestyle, at Leeds, you can enjoy a safe environment, convenient living functions and a comfortable teaching environment.

How do you think the skills and knowledge you’ve developed at Leeds will help with your career plans?

The skills and knowledge I’ve developed at Leeds, such as critical thinking, practical experience, and networking, have significantly prepared me for my career. The rigorous academic environment sharpened my analytical abilities, while hands-on projects and internships bridged the gap between theory and practice, making me job-ready. Additionally, the opportunity to build a professional network and gain a global perspective has broadened my outlook, ensuring I am well-equipped to navigate and succeed in the dynamic, interconnected professional world.

What advice would you give to someone who is unsure about studying the pre-sessional?

If you’re unsure about studying pre-sessional, consider it a valuable opportunity to enhance your English skills, learn about the academic culture, and build confidence before your main program begins. It provides tailored support in key areas like academic writing and presentation skills, making the transition smoother and reducing anxiety. Additionally, it offers a chance to form early connections with fellow students, creating a support network that can benefit your Masters journey, ultimately enhancing both your academic and professional prospects.

Yun-Chen studied the Language for Human Resource Management pre-sessional.

Find out about our pre-sessional courses for postgraduate researchers.