School of Languages and Area Studies (SLAS)
Student experiences
Have a look at what some of our students from China have to say about life in Portsmouth...
Video Interviews
Qianyun Wang - Beijing
My course is BA (Hons) Communication and English Studies. It is mainly about intercultural communication and language in UK print media and the broadcasting industry. We also have two English units and a special student project. It is useful to know the cultural differences when you come to another country and the best way to learn the differences is to go to that country and experience real life there. We also learn more general English, covering a wide range of subjects and topics.
The University of Portsmouth is a good place to study. I like the way of teaching and the focus on self-learning. The teachers are good here too. They are qualified, knowledgeable and some can be funny. It is good that they encourage me to think and to find the answer by myself. We can ask and answer questions freely and the atmosphere in class is flexible. There are more interactive in-class activities like presentations, group discussion and role-play. The hardware of the University is cool as well. Projectors, videos and computers are available in all lecture rooms. The library is a fun place to go too. You can check, reserve and renew books online, which saves my time and legs!!
Portsmouth is a lovely city located in the south of England. Within a few minutes walk you can see the nice beach and boats which I couldn't see in Beijing. The weather is one of the best in the UK, which is neither too cold in winter nor too hot in summer. It is not as crowded as big cities but can be lively at night and at the weekend, as you enjoy the famous pub life here.
Portsmouth can be really quiet, which is really good for study. As it is not a very big city, it's easy to reach banks, shopping centres and stores of all kinds. It's not so good in the winter - the sun is gone at 4pm when you still have things to do. However, it pays off in summer when the sun is still there until 9pm!
I work for UP for It - a volunteer society that organises activities in local schools and the community. I am also the student representative of my course (level 3). My main responsibilities are to listen to any comments, complaints and suggestions from students and report to the head of division and draft reports. I get training from the Student Union and attend committe meetings.
Sun Hong Ze - Beijing
I previously studied at the Beijing University of Chemical Technology. I am now studying BA (Hons) International Trade and English at the University of Portsmouth. This course teaches transactions in international trade and its law.
The University of Portsmouth offers good student service. The tutors are very kind. The best thing about being here is the opportunity for overseas students to know British culture and practice their English. Although I don't think there are enough opportunities for overseas students to communicate.
Portsmouth is a quiet environment with a beautiful beach. In my free time, I like to go clubbing.