Astika Nurwidyawati, MSc TESOL 2019

'I chose this University because of its good reputation and it offered me the courses I need for my career. I also considered the city itself and found Edinburgh to be the most suitable place to live as it is so peaceful and beautiful.'

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

I chose this University because of its good reputation and it offered me the courses I need for my career. I also considered the city itself and found Edinburgh to be the most suitable place to live as it is so peaceful and beautiful.

Why did you choose to study this degree?

I want to upgrade my career in the future, thus I need a higher degree to achieve that goal.

What did you enjoy most about the programme?

I really loved how all of the lecturers were so brilliant, friendly and helpful. They have helped me gain new insights that changed my perspectives and beliefs in the English teaching profession. I also really enjoyed every course provided, especially the ones I could choose in semester 2. They were fantastic and really useful for me.

What specific skills did you develop?

The skill that I developed the most was my critical thinking. All students were required and encouraged to critically evaluate every theory we learned before deciding to believe it or not. My skills in teaching English more effectively and in more creative ways were also developed.

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

That I always need to have my own stance in everything I do.

Why would you recommend this programme to others?

I would recommend this programme because this programme not only provides students with the theory and practice of teaching but it also gives a chance to observe in real schools in Edinburgh, to learn more about how education in Scotland is run. I found this so beneficial, especially as an Asian student, to be inspired by the running of this system. In addition, the lecturers are all awesome.

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

This degree will surely elevate my career, since graduating from one of the most reputable universities in the UK is a big deal in my country. Besides, what I gained studying here will hopefully inspire my future students and make them love English more.

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

If you are not used to reading a lot, start doing that now because what you need the most to survive here is your ability to read and criticise it. And if you are a shy person, train yourself to speak more before coming here, because your voice matters and defines you.