We caught up with BA (Hons) Media Studies with a Year Abroad student, Isabel, to find out more about her experience and time at Kent.
What has been your favourite module so far, and why?
The ‘Social Media and Participatory Culture’ module by Susan Wang has been my favourite module so far.
What made you decide to study your course at University of Kent?
I had heard a lot of positive things about the University of Kent from peers and teachers. However, after being rejected from Kent’s Psychology department on UCAS, I applied for a media degree instead. I ended up getting an opportunity to switch back to a psychology course closer to the start of term but decided to stick with Media Studies. I am very happy with my decision.
When you were able to be on campus, where did you spend most of your time?
I spent most of my time in my accommodation room, the library and Kent eating hubs like Hut8 or Dolche-Vita.
Are you a part of any sports or societies? And if so, what’s been your experience? Would you recommend them to fellow/new students and why?
I am part of the Indian and Malaysian societies, which has been a fun experience. I have been able to make more friends and involve myself in various social events. I definitely recommended (new) students to join a sports team or society, as it is an easy way to make new friends, network and become more social in general.
During lockdown, have societies been hosting any socials you have loved? Have you discovered any online events worth sharing?
There have been emails circulating each week by The Lupino Film, hosted by Dominic Topp. A link to a movie is uploaded each week and is available for all School of Arts students to watch. On the following Monday, a zoom meeting is set up for students to discuss the film. This seems like an interesting online social event as it give students a break from assignments where they can enjoy different films each week.
What’s your favourite thing about living in Canterbury?
Canterbury is a very beautiful city with lots to see. Unlike most cities like London, there is a more peaceful feel to Canterbury, where students can enjoy the parks and lakes. Canterbury’s greenery and general beauty has even been featured in the anime ‘Sakura Quest’. Also, Canterbury is only two hours away from my home, so I like that I can see my family often. I also like the multicultural aspect that I can meet people from many cultures and buy food from different places. For example, shops like Kukki have introduced me to new Asian foods.
What’s your favourite bar/café/restaurant in town or on campus?
I love Hut8, Mungoes and Dolche Vita on campus. In town I love the restaurant Bangkok House and the bistro Cote Brasserie in town.
What would you recommend to a new first year student studying your course that would really help them?
I would recommend that new students try and get out of their comfort zone as much as possible. Although university may seem daunting, every other student is in the exact same position/ feels the exact same way. Therefore I urge them to join societies and involve themselves in as many fresher activities as possible (whether that be in person or online). This is an easy way to make friends and have fun.
What would you recommend a first year student moving to Kent try out?
If they are staying on campus, they should try to get to know their housemates. This is an easy way to make friends. I also recommend doing some sightseeing (with housemates or not) to settle into their new environment easier. If available, try to experience Canterbury’s nightlife (responsibly), as this is another way to meet new friends.
Are there any books / podcasts / film / online magazines that would be helpful for a new student, or fellow students, studying your course?
For new students, Royal Holloway University of London have a podcast called Preparing U for Uni, which can help new students prepare for university better. Also, Dr Dieter Declercq runs an Industry Speaker series where he brings in professional people from film and media production, distribution etc. on Zoom to talk about their careers and you can ask questions about how to make a career in the field.