Aneesha

Why did you choose to study your course at Surrey?

I didn't know of the University of Surrey at first but once it was introduced to me, I knew it would be a good choice because it is globally renowned and ranked 1st in the UK for my course. Events management has been my passion since before I even realized how much I genuinely enjoy doing it. As such, it is such a privilege to be able to pursue my dream in such a reputable university.

What are the best things about Surrey and your course?

Personally, I think we have a really beautiful campus. Coming from Malaysia, a tropical country, we have one season all year round. As such, being able to experience the four seasons here in the UK has definitely been really cool. A specific highlight for me is seeing how one same place can look so different during each season. The comparison photos are CRAZY! 

As for my course, I had a look at the various modules offered before enrolling to get a rough idea of what I was walking into and I was pleasantly surprised at how it's all been so far. The new opportunities and knowledge have been nothing short of incredible.

What are the best things about life here as a postgraduate student?

I've lived in Malaysia all my life so this is the first time I'm living abroad and on my own. As a postgraduate student, knowing that I only have one year to experience this made me want to make the best out of the little time that I have. 

I do admit that it took me a while to reach that mindset as it was challenging for me to adapt initially. Once I got past that, things suddenly started working out for me and the pieces just started falling into place. Magic? Manifestation? I don't know but it's all part of the experience. As I don't plan to further my studies, this past year has been my last year officially as a student before I really start 'adulting', *sigh*. However, it's given me more reason to be grateful that I had this year as a postgraduate student and all the opportunities that came with it - especially being able to organize an event in the UK as part of my course!

What are your career plans?

Events in my opinion can be diverse but also quite niche. I would like to be able to learn a variety of things while still actively doing events. Something in public relations would be nice as I'll be able to widen my skill set while continuing to do what I love. 

I've also become very interested in sustainability, something I realized from some modules in my course. So, I hope to be able to pursue a job that can incorporate that somewhere down the line.

What advice do you have for students thinking of doing this course?

From an international student's point of view, this past year has given me the opportunity to not only learn more about events but also the chance to learn about myself. 

Sometimes you have to move 6600 miles away from your comfort zone to be able to figure out and realize things you never would or could have if you stayed in the same place. 

It's scary, it's hard, it's chaotic but it's worth it. You'll meet tons of new people, learn so many new skills, get interested in new sports and make memories that you'll remember for a long time. For some of us, it's an experience of a lifetime - at least, that's how it is for me :)