Jiaqi Zhao

Posted on: 19 November 2024 in Posts

BA Communication and Media

Why did you choose to study your chosen course at the University of Liverpool?

Communication and Media contained both elements of media and film, subjects I chose for my A-levels, I thought it would be great to study it a higher level. Being from Liverpool, I had originally thought about going somewhere away from the North to carry on my studies, but I really like the city I was brought up in and wish to stay just a bit longer.

How has University been different from A-levels

I think there is a stronger sense of independency in both the workload and lifestyle in university when compared to A-levels. It is entirely up to the student how much they want to engage with their course and university life, it’s a great sense of freedom and I think it encourages people to “grow up” in a sense.

What has surprised you most about Liverpool?

Liverpool is quite a compact city; you can walk from one side of the city centre to the other in no time. It’s great as everything is close by and you never really need to travel far to find anything. Although, it is quite a small city, it is very lively as you’ll always find a local who is more than happy to have a chat with you.

How has your learning been facilitated since coming to Liverpool?

There is a lot of independent work, such as weekly readings and project research. Although it’s independent, I have found that you are never alone, as there are multiple facilities off and on campus that are more than willing to help you. I really recommend attending your tutor’s office hours as they are always there to help you on understanding the material.

What extra-or co-curricular activities do you take part in, and how do these affect your student experience?

I have joined multiple in first year to meet new people and I liked it so much I decided to run a couple of societies in second year, I actively take part in societies such as Creative Writing, Help the Homeless and UNICEF just to name a few. I find that societies are the best way to engage more with university life and make new friends.

If you could go back, what advice would you have given yourself before going to University?

I love university life that I wish it never ends. I think the biggest advice I would give myself is to just enjoy university for what it is, it is going to be the best few years of your life before you become a fully-fledged adult in the working world, might as well enjoy the journey.