Jenna Gilmour – BSc (Hons) Conservation Biology
Â鶹´«Ã½ offers an ecology-minded student the opportunity of a lifetime
Jenna's story
Why Â鶹´«Ã½?
"I am a Conservation Biology student at the Â鶹´«Ã½, one of the most eco-conscious universities in the UK.
This was my main draw to study in Â鶹´«Ã½ because the city has an eco-friendly view as well.
It is one of the best universities for my course and has the support of active researchers, in various fields.
The fact that you have Dartmoor and the ocean so close was important to me as I am from South Africa. This is such a diverse country in both wildlife and culture. Finding a city that valued this was vital.
The Â鶹´«Ã½ is modern and constantly adapting to promote diversity and meet its students' needs, something my close friends and I all love about it.
I enjoy being involved in different things and meeting new people, which is why I joined the debating society.
There is always something to do that ensures a balanced lifestyle not solely focused on studies but also on your wellbeing. Join a society or make your own, there are always options and support available with the Â鶹´«Ã½.
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
The actual University has a great environmental outlook and was one of the best for my course while also offering a lot of support during my studies."
"I love Dartmoor and going to Cadover or Shaugh Bridge but my favourite is Bovisand Beach. It's only a bus journey away and there are loads of cute dogs around too. I also like the many parks in Â鶹´«Ã½ city centre."
Bovisand Beach
No culture shocks
"Being an International Student, the University treats you just like any other student, which is great. There are so many other International Students so you get to hear their stories as well.
They are also your main form of support if you need anything, but mostly you are there to enjoy your time like any other student in England.
As an international student, it's important not to lose your identity. My friends love my sayings that are so common in South Africa
Having friends who are from your home country or even just international helps because you can reminisce and discuss the differences in culture without feeling overwhelmed by it. Plus, you can never have too many friends to join you on a casual night out.
The best way to invite them is to do something casual, like get a coffee. Don’t wait for others to invite you because no one wants to be the first. Keeping it casual means there is no social pressure, rather just an extension of the chat you are already having.
New people are everywhere so just or or even a group in your lectures and have a few chats. You will soon find out which groups you want to be a part of.
The lifestyle is better and there is a lot of freedom for young adults in Britain
However, I will never take for granted the help the country provides to its people because I never had that, especially health care. Being able to walk and go wherever you please, whenever you want is probably the best part of living here for me.
Public transport is always available and there is plenty of opportunity for adventure in the UK."
"One of my favourite things to do is to head down to Royal William Yard and find a place to have a barbecue. There are plenty of buses or you can walk there, and some drinks are always involved."
Making friends
"A friend reminded me that I’m not the only new person at the University, we all are. After that, I found it easier to chat to people.
Try to make friends with the locals because they will love being your guide to the UK and learning from you as much as you learn from them.
Societies are a great way to do this, which sounds like a cliché but it’s true."