Zainal is from Malaysia graduated from the BA in Politics and International Relations in 2020.
Zainal Adam graduated in 2020 with a BA in Politics and International Relations with a First Class Honours degree and is currently studying an MSc at the School of Economics and Politics Science, in Public, Policy and Administration.
What made you decide to come to Kent?
Being the UK’s European University, I enjoyed the fact that I was joining a University that was diverse in nature, being able to meet and mingle with people of different cultures from all over the world. I turned out to be right. Also, it was an only an hour away from London which made commuting very easy for me if I ever decided to go down.
What is your favourite memory of Kent?
Being elected President of The Malaysian Society, hence being able to interact with different societies and taking charge of an organisation that would bring joy to my fellow Malaysians abroad. It was a pleasure to not only be able a reference point, but to also help new students settle in with the existing Malaysian Kent students via events, gatherings etc. It was the best experience I could have ever imagined looking back. I also enjoyed the weekly extra curricular activities be it with the Malaysian Society, or generally which the Sports Centre used to host such as futsal and football tournaments.
Would you recommend Kent to prospective students? Why?
Very much so. The university experience itself is second to none, but what also made me enjoy university life was Canterbury itself. Albeit a town with an old and historic feel to it, it has everything you need to enjoy your university life. This includes convenient stores, shopping, tourist sites and even night life. What I enjoyed in particular was the night markets and night lights in town during Christmas, which I looked forward to the most annually. A small town, but not one to be underestimated. Also, it is very close-by to London!
How has your experience at Kent helped you since graduation?
So far it has definitely helped me in being able to apply for my Masters successfully. During my time in Kent, I would like to think it also assisted me tremendously in getting my desired internships. Outside academia, it has left a mark on my personality. I feel I have grown and matured even more now that I am alumni, as the experience of living abroad and meeting new people has had its positive effects on me.
What have you been up to since graduating?