Yarui Huang

The pre-sessional helped a lot in improving my skills of giving presentations and academic writing. I grew from someone who didn't know anything about these to someone who knew everything about it. These skills are quite different in my own country. For example, I learned about structure in my academic writing and linking words for presentations. In addition, I knew things I could improve. For example, that I should slow down my speaking speed when giving a presentation. 

On the course, I enjoyed taking part in the consultations the most. I could have a face-to-face, one-to-one communication with my tutor, which means that I can receive detailed feedback of my assessment. Therefore, I can clearly understand things I could improve and things I have done well. 

My tutor is a patient and responsible person. She sometimes chats with shy students who do not actively speak before lessons begin and allows every student the chance to express themselves and practice their English.  

In addition to the regular lessons of the pre-sessional, there are also a large number of well-planned activities in the Language Zone. As much as you want, you can participate in improving your English level and familiarising yourself with studying and living in the UK. 

There are online and on-campus activities in the Language Zone. I have tried Let’s Chat and Presenting with Confidence online, and Reading and Speaking, Listening and Speaking sessions on campus. I love Presenting with Confidence because everyone has an improvisational presentation with a random topic, which is exciting! 

I suggest international students who never studied in the UK before to join this course. This will allow you to master the academic writing in the UK so that you can better adapt and prepare for your Masters course.   

Yarui studied Language for Science, preparing for MSc Biodiversity and Conservation.