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Sera Kang

Meet Sera from South Korea.

Sera

What’s your background?


I am from Seoul, South Korea, where I majored in Civil and Environmental System Engineering at Konkuk University.

My passion for sustainable infrastructure led me to this field, and after graduating, I gained practical experience working at a public corporation. This experience has reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact through engineering

Why did you choose to study the IPM at UCL?


I chose to study the IPM at UCL because I wanted to deepen my expertise in my field and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the latest advancements.

UCL stood out to me for its advanced STEM disciplines and its vibrant international community, offering a unique opportunity to connect with diverse professionals.

The IPM course was particularly appealing because it allowed me to explore my academic passions, while gaining valuable postgraduate-level insights.

How is the UK education system different to your home country?


Unlike the learning approach I was accustomed to in Korea, the UK education system encourages tutors and students to actively participate and co-create lessons.

The UK educational culture values critical thinking, debate and diversity, which was a new experience for me.

Initially, I found it challenging to adapt, but it also provided an opportunity to appreciate the importance of critical thinking and embrace the differences between the Korean and UK educational systems.

This experience has helped me develop a new way of thinking that combines the strengths in both approaches.

Being open to the benefits of British culture and education has enhanced my professional knowledge, and will help me expand my global network during my Master's programme.

What was the biggest challenge you faced during your time on the IPM and how did you overcome it?


The biggest challenge I faced during the IPM course was my public speaking anxiety, as I had to actively participate in class and express my arguments clearly.

To overcome this, I frequently communicated with my tutors not only about my academic progress but also about my psychological anxiety. The constructive feedback they provided greatly contributed to my psychological stability and academic motivation.

Additionally, through reflective writing, I was able to identify the causes of my anxiety and gain a clearer understanding of the steps I needed to take. This process helped me to reduce my anxiety and focus more effectively on my studies.

What advice would you give to future IPM students?


Enjoy being ‘you’ as a learner!

When I first started studying abroad, I had many fears, but with the support of my tutors and classmates, I was able to fully enjoy my time at IPM.

Effective communication is key – make sure you engage with your tutors and classmates, and don't hesitate to ask questions or seek feedback. This will help you make the most of your experience and succeed in your studies.

Where did you live during the IPM, how was your experience?


Living in university accommodation was a great advantage, especially for me as it was my first living experience in the UK.

I had six flatmates from different countries, and we often cooked together and created many happy memories. The experience of understanding and living with people from different cultures is a very warm and precious memory that I will always cherish.