Current Canadian student testimonials
Hear from students Natasha and Harold about their time studying in the UK, providing insight into why Canadians should consider the University of Bristol.
Name
Natasha Martin
Name of program
Bachelor of Veterinary Science-Accelerated Graduate Entry Program
What is life like as an international student in the city of Bristol? What is your experience studying at the University of Bristol
Studying abroad and being an international student has added so much to my life. I have met so many amazing people from not only the UK, but all around the world. My network of future colleagues and friends has grown. For me, life in Bristol is a lot like any city back home in Canada, but with the added bonuses of being in such a well-connected country to travel and experience so many new places.
What do you like about the city of Bristol that differs from back home? What is the coolest/best thing about Bristol in your opinion?
I love the architecture of the old buildings in Bristol - we don’t have many cathedrals or old university buildings back home in Canada. It is amazing to see and learn about the history of Bristol, and how it became the city it is today. I love walking around the city on a day off - the city feels so alive! The people, the food, the activities all make it an amazing city to discover and study in.
Why did you choose to study your specific course at Bristol? What do you like about your specific course?
Since I was a little kid I always knew I wanted to help animals by being a veterinarian. Unfortunately, where I live in Canada there are limited accessible veterinarian schools. When researching where to study abroad I came across Bristol. It is one of the top veterinary schools in the world, with a four-year accelerated degree for students like me who have a previous undergraduate degree. It is also accredited by the AVMA, meaning I can go home to Canada and practice after I graduate. These were all important things I was looking for in a school. Bristol was a place I had never been to, and seemed like a great place to study abroad for four years!
Why did you choose to study in the UK?
Like Canada, the primary language in the UK is English. Having no language barrier was extremely important to me when choosing where to study. The UK is only a seven hour direct flight from where I live in Canada, making it easy to get to. There is so much history in the UK and is in a great location for travelling around mainland Europe, something which was important for me to do whilst studying in the UK.
What is your overall advice to someone from back home who wants to come to Bristol? And what piece of advice could you give to help a prospective student choose Bristol?
It may seem a bit scary at first to take a leap of faith and study somewhere completely different to where you have grown up, but let me tell you, I haven’t regretted one minute of it! Studying abroad has for sure made me a more well-rounded person and therefore, make me a better vet. I have had so many experiences and travelled to amazing countries thanks to studying abroad. Since clicking “accept” on my offer, I haven’t looked back and I have enjoyed every second. So click “accept” and take a leap of faith, because it may be one of the best things you do!
Name
Harold Calingacion
Name of program
MSc International Relations
What is life like as an international student in the city of Bristol? What is your experience studying at the University of Bristol
Studying at the University of Bristol has been a very enriching experience. Because of the international environment at the university, I have had the opportunity to learn from people of diverse backgrounds and expertise. There are plenty of opportunities to meet people who share similar interests, especially through school events and societies which have helped me adjust to life here. Also, the university provides a lot of resources and friendly assistance for whatever international students need. Therefore, the process of moving to Bristol and starting my studies has been a smooth experience.
What do you like about the city of Bristol that differs from back home? What is the coolest/best thing about Bristol in your opinion?
Once you get used to the hills, the central part of Bristol is very walkable. There are plenty of green spaces, like Clifton Down or Victoria Park, that are nice spots to relax and get some fresh air. Bristol is well connected by train or bus, especially compared to Canada. Also, if you are into art and music, there are cool events always happening throughout Bristol.
What did you choose to study your specific course at Bristol? What do you like about your specific course?
I chose my course because it is intellectually challenging and I have the chance to take units that align with my academic interests. I like my course for its very global character, with many of my classmates being international students.
Why did you choose to study in the UK?
I chose to study in the UK to have a new experience: be able to travel around the UK in my free time, and pursue my hobbies in football, music, and photography.
What is your overall advice to someone from back home who wants to come to Bristol? And what piece of advice could you give to help a prospective student choose Bristol?
Be open to joining a new club or society - it can be a great way to meet new people and discover a new interest. Be curious and attend events held by your school to learn more, even if it's not directly related to your exact academic interests. As for choosing Bristol, aside from information on the course, make sure to do plenty of research on whether the city has the vibe you're interested in—things like the student population, things to do in the city, and chances to travel outside the city are important to think about too.
If you would like to know more about study options in the UK or for more information on individual courses and for free application assistance please get in contact with your SI-UK Consultant. If you do not yet have a Consultant then please register here and one will be assigned to you.
