BA (Hons) French Studies
Lorna Baker - BA (Hons) French Studies
I chose the University of Portsmouth because when I attended an Open Day I felt positive about the environment. I felt it was the right place for me. I chose the BA (Hons) French Studies course because ever since starting secondary school I enjoyed my French classes and had a passion for learning the language. At the moment, I am considering a future career in teaching but I am not completely sure about what exactly I would like to do. I think I will see where my degree takes me, but I definitely want a career in which I will use my French language skills.
I am thoroughly enjoying my course because I do more than just learning the French language. I have units in French politics, general society and history, which are very interesting, giving me a deeper perception of France as a whole. In year three, you spend the academic year in the country of the language you are studying. I will be doing this next year and I plan on working as an English assistant in a French secondary school. Having the chance to teach your native language to non-native speakers is a once in a lifetime experience and I want to make the most of this amazing opportunity to improve my French.
Throughout the whole of year one and equally this year, my lecturers have been very supportive. I know that I can go to them for some advice and they will do their best to help me. There are good computing facilities in my School as well as a useful Learning Resources area. In addition, the University Library has a good quality range of books and articles for essay writing and general research. I am a gym member and I enjoy socialising with my course friends, whether it is for a study session or a night out.
Portsmouth is a big, lively city with lots of shopping opportunities and entertainment venues, especially at Gunwharf Quays. In spring and summer, I go down to the beach, providing it is not too windy. It was important that my university was not too far away from my family and friends, so if I fancy a break from university life, it only takes me 90 minutes to get home, which is great.
Mark Ribbans - BA (Hons) French Studies
Mike Ribbans is a full time police officer with West Sussex police, but over the past eight years he has been studying French on a part time basis.
Having left school at sixteen, he was apprehensive about coming to university as a mature student, but he has had no problem integrating. Although working and studying at the same time has been challenging for Mike, there have been some synergies: 'I have helped French motorists who have broken down and as part of my course I have spent time with the French police in Paris, both teaching English and helping them to learn about the British police force.
As transnational crime is increasing, investigations will have to be co-ordinated across borders if results are to be obtained. Having a language will enable this to be done more effectively.'