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Ziyi shares her experiences studying the Sociology BSc at IOE.
Ziyi, tells us what were your first impression of UCL?
My first impression of UCL was that it was a university with a diversity of interesting programmes and subjects.
What do you enjoy most about your degree programme?
Studying BSc Sociology allows me to learn a broad range of subjects. So far, I have taken so many interesting modules, such as: Sociology of Gender, Sociology of Childhood, and Historical Foundations of Sociological Thought, just to name a few. These courses have challenged many previous thoughts and provided me with new perspectives. There are many modules that help me to build and enhance my research skills, including skills in both qualitative and quantitative research.
What is the biggest challenge you face while studying?
Adapting to a new environment - I felt homesick when I first moved to London, which was quite distracting. However, it is manageable, and making new friends and keeping myself busy is very helpful.
Where do you prefer to study?
I love studying in libraries in IOE and the main building. The IOE Library has a large collection of books that suit my research and study field. Studying in the library in the main is enjoyable too, the building is classic and beautiful.
Tell us what it is like to live and study in London...
There are so many interesting things to do in London. For example, I am very interested in documentaries, and there are a lot of short courses about documentary filmmaking in London, both in and outside of UCL, which help me gain more practical knowledge.
I love studying in libraries in IOE and the main building. IOE Library has a large collection of books that suit my research and study field.I love studying in libraries in IOE and the main building. IOE Library has a large collection of books that suit my research and study field.I love studying in libraries in IOE and the main building. IOE Library has a large collection of books that suit my research and study field.
What do you do when you’re not studying?
I do freelance writing and contribute to some Chinese media. I have interviewed some artists and activists, I especially enjoy storytelling and the process of writing up the interviews. Studying sociology helps me to enhance my skills in interviewing and equip me with some new perspectives when writing articles.
Have you lived in UCL accommodation?
I lived in Lillian Penson Hall, a University of London Hall, which was available for students of UCL to apply for. I really enjoy living in student accommodation because it allows me to meet new people, and I have made a lot of friends who study at different universities.
What do you hope to do after completing your degree and have you used any of the services provided by UCL Careers?
I hope to work in academia and take up career in research in the future. I will apply for a Masters after my BSc. I have used career support services, they are helpful and they give students advice about career planning.
Last updated 18 August 2022.
