Yao Zhao

I am from Kunming in Yannan Province, South West China. I completed the one-year MSc in Psychological Approaches to Health in the School of Psychology at the University of Leeds and am now doing a PhD in the School. The Masters programme was really interesting and prepared me well for studying for an even higher degree.

As an international student, I understand that it can feel quite daunting to study in another language. However, the University of Leeds provides lots of academic support. In particular, I’ve found really helpful the seminars and longer training programmes on academic writing style, grammar, and structure. There is also great advice on tasks such as note-taking and revising for exams. And the University Library provides really useful support on how to write your reference section in correct format.

For my PhD, I am studying a Chinese fandom culture and am developing my skills in both qualitative and quantitative research methods. I am really enjoying being able to use a scientific approach on a topic of considerable interest to me. The University of Leeds is providing me a really precious experience and I am receiving unimaginably great support from my supervisor and peers.

As to daily life, I’ve found the University of Leeds to be really thoughtful and sensitive towards the needs of international students. There is support for issues such as time-management, getting re-motivated, and very real concern to help if you are feeling homesick or unhappy in any way. This is taken very seriously and students are encouraged contact one of the many sources of support available.  

There are hundreds of societies and clubs within the University on almost every interest and a brilliant Sports Centre on campus with a large swimming pool. There are also countless reading groups at which you can meet people with similar interests. The International Office organizes lots of events and short trips to visit the many interesting places in and around Leeds. The campus and city centre has many stunning buildings, fascinating museums and galleries, and is famous for its shops. When I am walking around central areas, it is great how I always find some new surprise like a great little café or boutique. Leeds is located in the centre of the UK and is well connected by road, rail and air so it is also a great place from which to explore the rest of the country and other European countries.