Joy studied at the University of Leeds in 2005-06

What was your course of study?

MA Development Studies

What did you study before this?

BA Communications

Did you have any work experience at the time of application?

Yes

Any particular reasons you chose your university?

It is well recognized internationally

What did you most enjoy about your course?

The resources available to carry out research and the interactive learning encouraged

What did you like the least?

The time frame! it was work work work

Tell us about life beyond academics! What was/ is the social scene like? Did/does your city offer anything exciting that you’d like to tell prospective students about? Did/ do you travel much? Take extra-curricular classes?

The social life was very good. The large number of international students was good and one did not feel lost all the time!

Were you a member of any societies at university?

NO

Which university facilities did you really enjoy?

The libraries were very good and the eateries on campus were close by

Where did you stay?

University accommodation then private accomodation

Do you remember how much you paid for your accommodation?

I think it was about £60-65 per week

Any complaints about your accommodation?

The rooms on the university accommodation were quite small!!!!

How did you manage finances? Any tips for students on a budget?

Make sure you cook as much as possible for yourself, this will cut down on your costs. Also, learn the supermarkets that are budget supermarkets

Approximately how much do you think students should budget for per month (excluding rent)?

To be safe including transport about £30-£50

What did you do about meals? Cooked/ Relied on restaurants/ take-away/ microwave ready-meals/had one of your flat-mates cook for you?!

Always cooked!! Rarely ate out

What’s the food scene like for vegetarians?

Never tried! But think it was great since some of my roomies were vegetarians! You Parul!!

Any restaurants/take-away joints in your university city/town you’d like to recommend?

Cant remember the names?!?!?!

Any other spots in your university city/town you’d like to recommend?

Yes! Morrisons for shopping!!

Did you work part-time? Tell us a little about it!

Yes, It was great since made alittle extra money, however, it can be quite a handful, balancing the two especially for Masters programme.  If you plan it is great!

Which calling card did you use to call home?

Can’t remember but there were plenty!

Who was your mobile service provider?

O₂

What did you do after university?

I have been working for various International NGOS back in Kenya and traveling to other countries where we work!

What are you doing at the moment?

Working for an NGO which covers various global projects, which is a fulfillment!

And finally, would you recommend a UK education to other students?

Getting a UK education at Leeds was great since it is recognized anywhere!!! The resources were great and the friendships made are irreplaceable!