Written by: Raymond Kongmaneerat
Stepping into the world of Accounting, Finance, and Financial Analysis at Newcastle University Business School in Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK, feels like diving into a thrilling adventure. Today, let's take a look at a typical day as an international student from Thailand, exploring classes, soaking in the local vibes, and embracing the lively atmosphere of this historic city. So, grab a virtual cuppa, and let's embark on this journey together!
Morning:
My day begins with my usual routine – getting ready, grabbing my favourite coffee from a local café in town, and swiftly heading to the Business School, just a 15 minute walk from my accommodation. Positioned at the heart of the city and across from St. James' Park, Newcastle's iconic football stadium, the School is a vibrant hub. Along the way, I join the flow of people heading to work or students making their way to class, immersing myself in the lively rhythm of the city waking up. The walk to school becomes a fun experience, ensuring a positive start to your day.
Classroom adventures:
Immersed in Finance and Accounting classes, my day is full of intriguing discussions and hands-on case studies. Interacting with professors creates an environment that's both enjoyable and intellectually invigorating. The best part? No need to hesitate if you're unsure or have questions – just raise your hand. Professors are always eager to provide extra explanations or clarifications.
One thing I particularly appreciate is the Recap system. Every lecture is recorded in the classroom and promptly uploaded to the student system, Canvas. This means that you can revisit or catch up on any lecture at your convenience. The School ensures that nothing is missed, making the learning experience both comprehensive and flexible.
Break time:
Typically, during our 2-hour lectures, we get a 10–15 minute break. I normally grab a snack at the café conveniently located on the ground floor of the School, or you can head over to Tesco which is right next to the School, for a wider selection.
Seminar class:
In our seminar sessions, the class is split into small groups of around 20 students. The focus shifts from theory to practical application, delving into real-life situations related to the topics we've studied. This approach adds an intriguing layer to my preparation for the actual workplace. Engaging in discussions with classmates allows for a rich exchange of opinions and perspectives, making each seminar an intellectual and practical experience.
Chill time:
With the academic hustle done, it's now time for our evening activities. I team up with my international buddies, classmates, flatmates, and friends from all over. Our kitchen turns into a mini cooking theatre where none of us are chefs, but we're all having fun.
During our cooking experiments, we toss in spices from every continent, creating dishes that might make Gordon Ramsay do a double-take or burst into laughter. If our cooking doesn’t go to plan, there are plenty of restaurants nearby.
But the real fun starts at the dinner table. It's like a mini–United Nations gathering, with cultural exchanges happening faster than we can pass around the salt. Laughter, stories, and the occasional food critique turn our evenings into a sitcom – the tastiest show in town.
Closing the day:
After a full day of classes and activities, right before calling it a night, I take a moment to review the day's lessons. It's a quick reflection to reinforce what I've learned.
Following that, it's time to tackle any assignments. With a cup of coffee in hand, I dedicate some focused time to completing the tasks at hand. It's the last push before wrapping up the day and preparing for the next.
Every day as an international student from Thailand pursuing Finance and Accounting unfolds as a mosaic of diverse experiences. Whether navigating new cultures or tackling academic challenges, this journey is moulding me into a global citizen within the dynamic field of finance.
Although I am only four months into this adventure, I find it remarkable how Newcastle has already become my second home. With each day that passes, I discover that I am not just a student; I am on a transformative journey, building the foundation for my future in the thrilling and interconnected realm of finance.