Hi, I’m Yue Xiao and I’m studying MA Media and Communications at the University of Exeter’s Streatham Campus.
I’m from Shanghai, a city that’s not only famous for its delicious food from all over China and its super convenient transportation, but also for iconic landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower. But what stands out to me the most is Shanghai’s rich cultural scene. I love visiting art galleries, where you can find incredible pieces from both overseas and remote regions of China. It’s always exciting and makes me proud to see such diverse art coming to Shanghai.
I chose the University of Exeter because it’s one of the UK’s Russell Group universities, which I find incredibly valuable. Also, its history and cultural traditions give it a rich academic atmosphere and a professional education system.
I received my offer from Exeter after completing the INTO online language programme. For me, the INTO programme not only improved my English skills, such as writing and speaking, but also helped me understand the learning habits in the UK. This experience provided me with valuable insights and learning experiences that greatly benefited my transition into formal studies.
I chose the MA in Media and Communications because of my background in fashion and apparel design. I wanted to expand my knowledge of how to help brands with promotion. Additionally, the “Social Media: Management and Strategy” module was particularly appealing to me. It offers insights into brand management strategies and theories, which will be practically useful for my career.
I think the module that has impressed me the most is the one I mentioned earlier, “Social Media: Management and Strategy”. What I’ve enjoyed most so far is that professors, including Dr. Zizheng who teaches this course, offer many opportunities for internships and participation in seminars organised by brand managers. This has truly provided me with valuable insights and opportunities to break into the industry.
When I started at Exeter I initially struggled with academic writing, but INTO provided excellent learning opportunities, and the best part was that these courses were free—all I needed to do was register online. Participating in these courses significantly improved my skills in reading academic literature and writing essays.
As an international student, I found it quite easy to fit in. Even though most of the students in my programme are from China, I’ve still managed to communicate and collaborate well with students from other countries. In fact, by working together on some course projects, we achieved great grades!
Additionally, to maintain my social connections with China, I joined the Chinese Students and Scholars Association at Exeter and became a member of the executive team. Organising events like singing competitions and Chinese New Year celebrations gave me a sense of belonging and helped expand my social network.
I live in a studio apartment in the city centre, which is self-catered and feels very safe. There are a lot of university students around, and the streets are well-organised, so safety isn’t something you need to worry about. One tip I’d give is to bring a sturdy umbrella—while the weather is generally good, rain can be quite unpredictable.
I enjoy the study spaces in the Forum—they’re spacious, bright, and equipped with everything you need, like printers and easy access to reference materials. I also love the Starbucks in the Forum, where you can enjoy a nice outdoor view.
I often shop at M&S and the slightly further Waitrose, both of which offer high-quality ingredients. If you’re into shopping, Urban Outfitters is a must-visit—the styles are super trendy, and they often have great seasonal discounts. There are also plenty of vintage shops around the city of Exeter, which are definitely worth exploring if you’re into vintage fashion.
For a taste of local culture, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery, as well as Exeter Cathedral in the city centre, are not to be missed. I also recommend a few Chinese restaurants, like Beijing Beijing and Tang Shian, if you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine. For quick bites, Five Guys in the city centre and the newly opened Popeyes are both great options.
The Career Zone is incredibly user-friendly, offering a lot of job opportunities in China as well as guidance on applications. I’m about to attend an offline job fair organised by the University in Shanghai, where many of the top companies I’m interested in will be present. This event will give me the chance to interact directly with their HR representatives, which will help me gain the necessary experience for my job search.
What surprised me the most was the natural environment here. The surroundings and the culture make me feel like learning goes beyond just textbooks. While gaining professional knowledge, getting to know and experience the natural and cultural environment around you adds a unique and valuable layer to your journey. For anyone considering studying here, I would say that the most important thing is to gain confidence and a broader understanding of the world through this journey. These experiences are far more enriching than just learning from textbooks.