Tingyu Gao

China, MSc International Hospitality, Events, and Tourism Management

“The library and Brookes’s database have many essential and important materials like academic journals. The librarians are very supportive and they can always help me to find the materials I am looking for. Also, the module leaders here are also very supportive, they helped me to get used to the unfamiliar educational [system teaching styles]”

What made you decide to study in the UK?

First of all, I like British culture and the politeness when people talk to each other. I am also very into the British literature like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, as I read them, they are very attractive to me. Moreover, the UK has so many famous and well known academic institutions.

Have you spotted any differences between English and Chinese culture while you are here?

China has a different educational system [teaching style] than the UK, in which I experienced some culture shocks and language barriers, but after a while I started to get used to it, it is no longer as stressful and overwhelming to me.

Do you have any tips for International students that are coming to Brookes to study?

It is not easy to study abroad and be away from home, you may feel homesick and frustrated sometimes, but don’t worry, you will get over it! Plus, don’t feel shy. Go out and talk with other students to get to know each other, listen to each other, learn something new from this experience.

How has your experience at a student accommodation gone so far?

My flatmates are so supportive and everyone around is so warm-hearted and willing to help. The community is also very supportive, every time when there is a problem in my room, they come to fix it in a very short time. One time I had a question during my quarantine that I do not know who to ask, I emailed the accommodation team, and they replied very instantly with the answer.

What do you like the most about living in Oxford and in the UK?

This is actually the first time that I’ve been to the UK. And I found the Oxford city very quiet and peaceful. Oxford for many people is an academic city with many universities and colleges and many talented scholars. During the lockdown, I really missed the time when I could go to parks and talk with different people. I like the ultimate sphere, it is so academic and really good for students.