The personal tutor system helped me adapt quickly to postgraduate study

I was working as a software test engineer for a commercial bank in China before starting my course in Sheffield. I was considering changing position but had no specific direction in mind, so I decided to study a postgraduate course. I thought it would be a good choice as it would give me new skills and space to think about and plan my future career all while experiencing a new learning environment in the UK. 

The perfect programme

I was looking for a programme that would both complement and enhance my existing skills. I found the MSc Information Systems Management which is taught by the Management School and the Information School. This combination was perfect for me!

Of course, the reputation of the university where you study is important. As the University of Sheffield is a high-ranking university with a good reputation, I believe that studying here will improve my education background.

Also, the Students’ Union has been voted best in the UK for the third year in a row by the Whatuni Student Choice Awards (2019, 2018, 2017). The Union provides a friendly and harmonious learning environment for international students, which will make many international students yearn to study here.

Support for international students

Before I came to the UK, the most significant concern I had was that I might not be able to adapt to the British learning environment as quickly. However, my concerns were put to rest after I attended the pre-sessional English courses provided by the ELTC. This improved my English skills and get me the chance to make lots of new friends.

I also felt a little overwhelmed after starting my course. The teaching style is different from what I am used to at Chinese universities so it was a new experience for me. However, the School arranges a personal tutor for each student. After meeting my tutor, I felt much more settled and ready and able to quickly adapt to postgraduate study and enjoy the full, rich curriculum on offer to me.

A focus on employability

My goal is to either become a produce manager at a large information technology company such as Google, Amazon, or Huawei, or get into wealth analyst work for commercial banks. There is lots of support in the School to help me achieve this.

For example, the Futures First employability hub provides employment-related training and workshops on topics such as writing a CV that will help you to stand out. The staff also get in touch regularly with recruitment and internship opportunities. This has motivated me to take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way.

A student city

Sheffield is a great city for students. It’s a peaceful and lovely city located in the middle of England which makes it easy for students to travel and explore other cities on weekends. 

In my experience accommodation and living costs are lower here than in other large cities. So I can save money to do more travelling! 

I like taking photos in my spare time and there’s many beautiful areas in Sheffield and the Peak District which is close by. You can enjoy amazing natural sights during a walk in the Peaks!