International Student Profiles

Genevieve Lau, Year 1
MChem: Chemistry, Biological and Medicinal Chemistry

photo of Genevieve Lau

"York has a very much lower cost of living and also significantly lower tuition fees as compared to the London universities. When looking at all the UK universities, ranging from the prestigious and costly, to the less well-known and much cheaper ones, York was the best choice in terms of balance between cost and quality of education. Coming from as far away as Singapore, it wouldn't be worth the money and trouble to study in the UK if the degree I would get at the end of 3 or 4 years wasn't valuable.

The reputation of the University and of the course itself is important. Although York is not at the top of the league tables, it certainly isn't far behind. I imagine employers or people in the industry would think of you differently if you came from a world-renowned university like York. York has received many awards for excellent teaching and this was something that I looked out for.

I like the tutorial system that York has, and I find it a very effective way to learn. Also, the fact that we have personal supervisors who monitor our progress gives my parents, who are on the other side of the world, some form of assurance that there is a sensible adult around to ensure that I don't get too caught up with fun, friends and freedom, and consequently, fail my exams.

These were the major reasons which led me to choose York. There are also other less important reasons like having seniors and friends also studying in York, and the fact that York is a nice quiet city as compared to the hustle and bustle of London."

Jing Yao,Year 2
MChem: Chemistry

photo of Jing Yao

"As an international student, York provides an ideal environment in which to study chemistry. The chemistry course is well structured and the department has a reputation for its high-quality teaching. College-based tutorials and workshops are especially stimulating, and the practical courses provide an excellent training in modern scientific analysis and synthesis. Academic staff are friendly and welcoming, and my personal supervisor is able to answer my academic questions and help with any other queries. This support has helped me to find my way in a foreign country. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at York and I am looking forward to my fourth year, when I plan to spend a year in industry."

Maria Kwan, Year 1
BSc: Chemistry

photo of Maria Kwan

"I feel really grateful that I have the opportunity to study chemistry at York. The course covers a wide range of interesting and modern chemical topics. All lecture courses are accompanied by small-group workshops and tutorials, so I can always discuss any problems that I have with the course material with my tutors and other students. The practical course is extremely useful and I am enjoying learning how to operate different instruments in the lab. My chemistry tutors are very nice and helpful, and the quiet and peaceful environment makes York an ideal place, not only for study, but also for enjoying my university life."