My name is A-Jung. I am currently pursuing an MSc in Accounting and Finance at the University of Leeds. I completed my undergraduate degree in Economics in my home country, South Korea, and I have around seven years of work experience before coming to the UK to continue my studies.
What aspects of the pre-sessional course did you enjoy?
The most enjoyable aspect was making friends from various countries with diverse backgrounds. I was very nervous when I first arrived in the UK because everything, including the language, people, environment, and systems, was different from my home country. However, making friends who were also studying with me was a big relief and a great way to start campus life two months earlier than other students. The weather in the UK during the pre-sessional period was perfect, making it an excellent time for trips to nearby cities.
How did studying on the pre-sessional help you on your degree course?
The most impressive thing for me during the pre-sessional course was experiencing a different educational system compared to my home country. During my undergraduate studies, students were expected to memorize what professors said and reproduce that knowledge exactly. However, in the UK, professors encourage students to express their own opinions, especially critical ones, rather than just knowing the concepts. The pre-sessional course helped me develop the habit of thinking critically through plenty of practice. It also allowed us to take examinations, submit essay assignments, and deliver presentations, receiving scores for each activity. This helped me understand how assessments are made and what is important to achieve higher scores in the UK.
Additionally, I was unfamiliar with seminar classes. In the UK, teaching often pairs one lecture with one seminar. During seminars, students ask questions, discuss controversial matters, and apply knowledge to real-world scenarios in small or large groups with the professor. The pre-sessional course offered discussion opportunities on historical events such as financial crises and frauds, which prepared me to actively participate in seminars from the very first day of my Masters program.
What were the teachers like on your pre-sessional course?
They were superb. The teachers were very professional in conveying concepts, knowledge, and skills. They understood how international students react to unfamiliar environments and knew the most effective ways to teach students attending UK classes for the first time, thanks to their extensive experience. They also provided one-on-one supervisory meetings to support students and always asked if there were any issues or concerns.
What have you enjoyed the most about your time at Leeds?
What I enjoyed the most was the Christmas season in the UK. I fully experienced the peaceful and festive atmosphere at the end of the year and felt a sense of belonging to the local community. The Leeds Christmas market was fantastic and offered a variety of traditional winter foods such as crumbles, hot chocolate, churros, and s'mores. It was also great fun to visit nearby cities, which were beautifully decorated with Christmas spirit. Another happy memory is having a picnic with friends in Hyde Park during the sunny summer, enjoying delicious food. Both experiences are equally wonderful, and I can't choose between them. I would say each season has its own unique selling point, making it enjoyable in its own way.
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 will be invaluable for my future career. Alongside the theoretical knowledge, I’ve learned how to think critically, present my opinions logically, apply theories and knowledge to real-world scenarios, and analyze issues deeply. I believe these experiences have improved my communication and teamwork abilities, which are essential in any professional setting. Additionally, since I hope to work in a global setting, soft skills such as intercultural communication and global awareness will help me adapt to a global environment more easily and become a member of the international community.
What advice would you give to someone who is unsure about studying the pre-sessional?
If you’re unsure about studying the pre-sessional, I highly recommend it. The pre-sessional course is a great way to get used to the UK education system and improve your academic skills before starting your degree program. It helps you build confidence in your language abilities, understand what UK universities expect, and develop critical thinking skills that will be crucial for your studies. Additionally, the opportunity to make friends and create a support network before your degree starts is invaluable. The teachers are highly experienced in helping international students adjust, and their support can make a significant difference in your academic journey.