Area Studies degrees

As an international student, one of the most rewarding aspects of my university experience has been the supportive and student-friendly environment. Adjusting to a new country and education system can be challenging, but the university’s approachable faculty, student services, and peer support made the transition much smoother. The staff are always willing to help, and there are numerous resources available to assist with academic, personal, and cultural adaptation. The university’s inclusivity is another key strength. It celebrates diversity and provides a space where everyone feels respected and valued, regardless of their background or nationality. This inclusive atmosphere has helped me build meaningful connections and collaborate with people from all over the world, enriching my learning and broadening my perspective. Furthermore, the welcoming and accessible environment has made a huge difference. From orientation events to student societies, there are constant efforts to make international students feel at home. The campus facilities, online learning tools, and support services are highly accessible, ensuring that all students can participate fully in academic and social activities. If I can point out something that can be improved is Food. It’s funny how something as simple as food can make such a big difference in how “at home” you feel in a new country. Encouraging more international food options on campus or hosting cultural food events could make a meaningful (and delicious!) improvement to student life.

The University of Westminster has been a life‑changing and incredible place to study. The university embeds employability into everything, from lessons, employability awards, and career mentoring, and beyond the classroom there are endless global and practical opportunities, even for students who may not have prior experience. Before coming to university, I had never travelled internationally, but through Westminster I’ve been able to visit South Africa, Barbados for a Microsoft programme, and Scotland for a leadership retreat to support my professional development. The university also supported me financially, making these experiences possible. These opportunities exposed me to new cultures, helped build my confidence, and strengthened my communication and networking skills. I’ve also developed professionally through roles such as being a FAN (Friend of Arriving New Students), where I supported new students during their transition into university by signposting services, offering guidance, and delivering presentations during induction week. I’m also had the opportunity to become an e‑mentor and student caller as well, continuing to support students as they settle in. These roles have helped me build strong communication and active listening skills that prepare me for life after graduation. In terms of improvements, I genuinely feel Westminster offers so much already. However, one possible enhancement could be increasing awareness of the opportunities available, sometimes students only discover schemes or programmes after they’ve taken place.

Best aspects would definitely be the people and the location. By the beach but with safe and lively night life, which in my opinion is important for most undergrad students, also the welsh are lovely and friendly. It depends on the area but overall the city feels extremely safe which was important for me. Some of the buildings on the old campus (singleton) look a bit run-down especially when the sun isn't out so it might be worth them revamping some buildings to make certain parts look less depressing. But again thats only a few, and the walk to campus is lovely especially as theres a massive park/green space right next to campus, with a 2 minute detour taking you right to the beach. Can't say too much on the students' union because it looks good but i havent really engaged with it. They always have some sort of event going on but honestly i havent been to many, so maybe the events could be more engaging so more people including myself would go.

The best aspects are that the teachers are helpful and experienced and so it helps with learning, however there could be more help with exam resources such as more practice questions for the exam to get the most support

WIFI is absolutely awful and there are many dead zones around campus. How can a top-level engineering university provide such poor internet connection, especially when all of our assignments are internet based and due online? I am constantly searching for places around campus with any useable connection and the VPN speeds when you're off campus are just unusable. It's the year 2024. How have we not figured this out yet? It's absolutely unaccusable. You have the money to build an entire new campus, but can't fix the internet at your main campus? Awful.

Great aspect is the modern facilities and learning environment. The campus is well-equipped with up-to-date labs and software resources, which is especially valuable for engineering students. The university also provides good academic support services and career guidance, helping students improve employability. Meanwhile, for something to improve the best will be expanding networking opportunities with more industry professionals and increasing internship connections would further enhance our careers.

A very understanding university for new students, places support above all else. It could be improved through not closing down campus shops and creating membership fees for societies instead of giving out a £50k pay bonus.