I have been studying in the UK since September 2007 – almost 3 years now. Apart from the things that I discovered in what is life in the UK, there are still few matters in which I wish to share and today is regarding the education.
Why UK?
I was here in the UK because of a scholarship opportunities that I received from Petronas. I am glad that I am graduating this July 2010 with a honours Bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering.
In the first place, I don’t get the choice to choose which country I wish to pursue my education. It was all set by them. But I am glad that I am here because I believe I have earned more than what they expect me to earn here.
Isn’t it famous to be UK graduate
It is famous. People have high expectation of you. But it is rather subjective. The UK graduates that earn that respect are those who have taken all the opportunities. If I were to tone it down, if you are a UK graduate and you can go back and talk about UK, inside out. Not many will be able to do that.
It is not my intention for you to drink what they drink and party like they do – because I never do things that against my own principle. Perhaps you should try to listen, experience wherever necessary and judge, regardless what you believe in.
Living in London is not the same as living in Cardiff. But wherever you are, be the local there. Travel with the people, talk with the people. Some people don’t care about these things, but these are things that allow you to share with people when you are back in Malaysia, at least for me.
Money matters
I am grateful that I am sponsored here thus everything from accommodation, tuition fees and pocket money is covered. It depends on where you are, but the cost of living in the UK varies. For cities like London, you need a deep pocket money. You will be amazed how much does it cost for transportation only. Food? That is already different pocket money. So, if you were to come here in the UK, city-wise, I’d go for more cost-effective cities like Cardiff, Sheffield and Manchester.
Although it maybe argued that top universities will charge internatinal students up to quadruple times what they local students are paying (that is how universities here makes money – International students). But wherever you go, make sure it is worth it.
And by worth it, I mean:
- Your degree is recognized by a perfessional institution. For example, my engineering degree course is recognized by IMechE, the Institute of Mechanical Engineers.
- Always check out the university ranking in terms of the department you wish to join. This list is for the top UK universities for Mechanical Engineering. Note: Choose the subject on top of the table to see yours.
- And what you heart tells you!
Working in the UK?
It is hard but not impossible. With the immigration issues that the UK have to handle at the moment, I would expect getting job in the UK is quite hard. You have to convince your employer why they should take the extra steps employing you rather than local graduates.
I would love to serve Malaysia through working with Petronas. And that is my dream. So, I am not looking forward to working here. But if you are thinking about it, I wish you a success!
Earning money is nice, but doing something that you love doing driven by passion is a whole different level. Bottom line is, whatever you do. Make sure it counts, make sure it is worth it!
P/s: I would be happy to answer any questions, just drop your comment below.
Photo credit: a.drian, lewishamdreamer
