Cui Xiao, MSc Education 2013

'As one of the best universities in the world, the teachers of this programme are knowledgeable and conscientious and sufficiently provide support and instruction to students. The study facilities and resources like books, labs, on-line journals are brilliant and can definitely meet your demands.'

Before studying for the MSc Education at the University of Edinburgh, Cui Xiao was an undergraduate student in China.

Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh?

My undergraduate major is English and that is why I decided to do my Masters study in the UK as I was interested in British culture. Besides, the superior reputation of the University of Edinburgh is another important reason. It is one of the best and most famous universities in the world and also in my country. Meanwhile, I was very attracted to the beautiful scenes of Edinburgh. 

Why did you choose to study this degree?

Before I studied at Edinburgh, I had decided to choose jobs related to education, but my previous major was a language (English) and therefore I wanted to have more about education in my postgraduate study. When I browsed the website of this programme, I was quite interested in the courses offered and also attracted by the worldwide fame of the Education programme at the University of Edinburgh.

What did you enjoy most about the programme?

In addition to the specific knowledge, this programme can cultivate your methods for how to study and how to do further research. The courses are well designed; teachers are very supportive. 

What specific skills did you develop?

The critical thinking and the skills for how to implement educational research.

What was the most useful thing you learned in your lectures, workshops and tutorials?

The most useful thing I learned is how to critically think or judge information and how to creatively conduct educational work.

Why would you recommend the programme to others?

Studying on the MSc Education at the University of Edinburgh was the best experience I have had in my life. The programme is well designed and not only broadens your understanding of different concepts of education but also trains you with adequate skills for undertaking research. As one of the best universities in the world, the teachers of this programme are knowledgeable and conscientious and sufficiently provide support and instruction to students. The study facilities and resources like books, labs, on-line journals are brilliant and can definitely meet your demands. By the way, Edinburgh, as one of the most famous cities in the world, the friendly people, comfortable environment, beautiful scenery and exotic Scottish culture will definitely leave you great memories.

In what way do you think the degree will contribute to your career?

The MSc Education programme personally benefits me a lot, especially in my career. The solid knowledge about education, especially the course on Global Education, supports my career a lot. Critical thinking and the skills to undertake research are actually very useful in my daily work.  

What advice would you give to someone considering studying this programme at Edinburgh?

This course is more suitable for the person who plans to be an educator or an educational researcher rather than a teacher. Prospective students should try to enlarge their basic knowledge of education before they begin their studies here, as the programme is about to instruct you on how to understand and utilise the knowledge, rather than only imparting knowledge. In addition, if you are a non-native English speaker, improving your English language ability before coming to Edinburgh is very important.

What is your current role or occupation?

I am a teacher and administrative staff member in a university in China, especially teaching and managing international students.

How did your experience at Edinburgh help you get where you are today?

The experience of studying at Edinburgh really helps me a lot in many aspects. Firstly, without this experience, I definitely could not get my job. As my work is dealing with international students, this experience helps me to overcome difficulties in work, such as culture shock, and how to solve conflicts between teachers and students, for example. All the knowledge and abilities I acquired here are very useful in my work.

What advice would you have for someone looking to work in your industry?

It is required to have a critical understanding of the different aspects of education and the ability to independently analyse relevant issues.