AskEssex
Do you have any burning questions to ask us? Below are a few of our current students at Essex. Click on their
profiles to find out what made them choose Essex, watch a video, read their blog or simply ask them a question -
they're happy to help!
Profile
Ashley Fox, MSc Advanced Web Engineering student, Harwich, Essex
"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here at the University of Essex. I started in 2008, studying BSc Computer Science, living in campus accommodation. I didn’t quite know what to expect at first, but the university was there to answer questions and alleviate any doubts I had. You’d be surprised at how fast you make new friends, and I quickly adjusted to university life.
I’m really pleased that I chose to live on campus in my first year. I gained independence and had the chance to improve my rather average cooking skills! I was right in the centre of all the action, and so decided to join the Sub Aqua club as well as SX:TV (the campus student run TV station). You’ll find the university provides lots of different activities for you to get involved with in between your studies.
I wanted to earn some extra money in my spare time so I visited the university Careers Centre. It was interesting to see just how many jobs were available on campus so I didn’t have to travel far. I applied and became a Student Ambassador, working various Open Days throughout the year, talking to prospective students and parents. It’s great being able to share my experiences with others and at the same time, improve my communication skills.
I have gained so much from my time here at Essex, and can’t wait to see what the future holds. So whether you’re just finishing A-Levels or looking at graduate opportunities, I wish you the best of luck and I’m sure that you’ll enjoy the university experience."
Social media
See Ashley's blog:
Profile
Judy Edwards, second-year BA History student, Canvey Island, Essex
Having completed a four year vocal course at the British Academy of New Music Judy was exploring her options for the future and came across a newspaper article on access courses. Having decided she would like to take one of these courses Judy began exploring which universities she would like to apply to.
“I had a look at the league tables and saw that Essex was doing well and decided to visit. I came here for an Open Day and, by the time that day had finished, I was driving home and decided that I wanted to go to the University of Essex. One thing I’m really looking forward to is spending a term of my final year abroad and I have chosen to do this in the US. I think it will be a totally different way of life and academic study. For CV and career benefits it is going to open so many doors for me.”
As a mature student who has not taken a direct route into higher education Judy believes that choosing to study at the University of Essex is one of the best decisions she has ever made. Judy is a member of the Glee club and the cheerleading society. She is also a student ambassador helping prospective students learn more about the University of Essex and their choices here.
Social media
See Judy's blog:
Profile
Laura Shephard, third-year BSc Management and Marketing student, Ipswich, Suffolk
“I believe that the skills and knowledge I am gaining from my experience at Essex will put me in the best possible position for entering the graduate job market.
My course, so far, has been everything I had hoped for and more, with highly topical and applicable modules taught by knowledgeable lecturers. Furthermore, the University has offered me a unique placement opportunity through their Frontrunners scheme. I am currently working as a social media frontrunner, gaining experience in digital marketing which will be a highly attractive addition to my CV, in a world that is increasingly shifting online. My placement enables me to be part of a working office environment, undertaking project-based tasks, which is boosting my confidence in myself and my capabilities.
The University makes it easy to live and learn at the same time. By offering so many extra-curricular activities alongside your studies, you are encouraged to grow socially, as well as academically. I know that, when I graduate, I will have all the tools I need to achieve my goals.”
Social media
See Laura's blog:
Profile
Nadia Tjahja, second-year LLB Law student, Hoofddorp, the Netherlands.
"Prior to making my application, I took an online course matching test to see what subject areas would best match up with my own interests. This revealed a lot about areas of study I would not have otherwise considered and was a real eye-opener to the choices available at university. I also undertook a personality assessment which made writing my personal statement much easier, as I was able to reflect on myself and my achievements.
Initially, I found it challenging to write about myself, but highlighting my academic performance, along with personal skills and qualities boosted my confidence. Although the process took a lot of hard work and effort, I learnt a great deal about myself and felt motivated by the prospects and opportunities that lay ahead."
Social media
See Nadia's blog: