Jessica Chia - BSc (Hons) Environmental Science

Second-year student Jessica explains why Plymouth is such a rich place to live and learn

Yes, come to Plymouth

“From many universities across the UK, I chose Plymouth for several reasons. First of all, my course requires a suitable site for fieldwork and Plymouth was perfect.

There are a lot of resources at the University to help you grow in many perspectives, not just intellectually. Plymouth is a really good place to study as it is a small city, with almost everything you need within reach.”

Jessica explains we she chose to study in Plymouth.

Welcomed to the city with open arms

“Being an international student at the University I never felt despair or neglect.

The lecturers treat everyone equally and made sure I adapted to life in Plymouth and my coursework.

There was a transition period in my first year with the cultural difference in England and the differences in usage of English words.

But for me, it was not difficult, and I adapted to it quite well. And also, the beautiful natural environment in Plymouth helped me to settle in.

Most of the time Plymouth is not as crowded as other large cities in England, with a slower pace where I think it is a very nice place to stay.”

“I would recommend the Environmental Science course. The University is filled with experienced, professional lecturers and a good course structure.”

Discovering our natural beauty

“Plymouth is a town surrounded by different natural habitats, such as Dartmoor, Wembury, the River Tamar and much more. I love exploring new places such as Mount Edgcumbe, Mount Batten and The Hoe.”

Exciting times

“I think the most exciting and fun experience I have had in Plymouth is exploring the area and meeting new people.

I have visited places such as Cornwall, St. Ives, Looe and Dartmoor where I can socialise with friends and meet others by travelling.

The other part is volunteering and participating in societies. I have volunteered with other conservation organisations through the help of the Students' Union (UPSU) where I experienced nature in England and gained practical experiences that will be helpful in my career.

I am also very active in the Catholic Society of the chaplaincy, where we share our faith and struggles we face during our study. For me, it is a place where I found peace and met people with the same interest.”

“Plymouth is a place full of opportunity”

A whole new life

“Mentally, you need to prepare yourself. Expect to become more independent and ready to handle the pressures of life. Train yourself to be more resilient and to adapt for any worst-case scenarios.

Practice your English before you come to England. Read more, speak more and listen more. Start by reading English books and watching English movies.

Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your visa. Be kind to everyone, be proud of where you come from and share your experiences with your friends.

It's very easy to meet new people as long as you are open and willing to speak out.

Join clubs and societies in the University, speak with your roommates and course mates.

I think the best way to build friendships is by offering food from your own country or maybe cooking your friends dinner.”

Discover more about our clubs and societies

Food, glorious food

“Pasties are not bad and the cafés on the University campus are also a good place to eat as it is cheaper compared to restaurants.
But there are many good restaurants in Plymouth city centre with different variety such as Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Western, Italian, Persian, Mexican and many more.”

“My time in the UK has been an eye-opening experience as I learn more about western culture and the friendliness of the people.”

Help at hand

“There's a lot of resources and help available. For example, International Student Advice, Careers Service, pastoral and spiritual support, UPSU, The Writing Cafe and SUM:UP. Use all the resources as much as possible. That is why you decided to come to university.”

Inspired by this story?

For more information about studying environmental science, visit our BSc (Hons) Environmental Science course page. For more information about our range of courses within the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, please visit the school page.

Want to find similar alumni?

If you would like to find out what other relevant alumni are currently doing, please visit the marine, earth, geography and environment interest area.