My name is Suyan. I have just completed a Master’s degree in International Hospitality and Tourism Management at Bournemouth University, and have just recently secured a graduate job in London which I am very excited about! I am originally from China. Here is a summary of my first week at BU.

I chose Bournemouth University, because it is one of best universities in teaching hospitality and it has a great reputation in this field. I was also attracted by the placement opportunity that my course offers as I believe the experience of working abroad will enhance my employability for the future.

My first week was very exciting and enriching as I went to lots of university events and activities. Freshers’ Fair was one of the highlights – it was very new and fascinating to me. I spotted a big dancing show in front of the library and I joined the crowd in watching the performance. Then some students approached me and asked me to join their societies. However, I quickly ran off as I was not interested in doing pole dancing! I continued exploring the fair and I was excited to see what the university had to offer. It was a very versatile and interesting experience. At the end of the day, I got lots of discount vouchers and free pizza vouchers. By that time I had realised that my student life in Britain had “officially” started.

I also went to the international dinner ceremony and got welcomed by the university’s Dean and other university staff. I became friends with some of the people, who sat around me, and I feel very lucky that they remained my good friends throughout my university life.

My school also organized a trip to Windsor Castle for us – there I got to meet all of my course mates and make a few friends as well.

The only thing I regret is not being able to go to the big night party, which was organized by the Students’ Union at Bournemouth University during the first week – I am sure it must have been very exciting!

By Suyan Zou