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Name: Alexander Richardson
Country of Domicile: Chile
Degree: MSc Technology Management
What are you studying, why are you interested in this subject and what do you plan to do in the future?
I'm studying MSc in technology management. I chose this subject because I have been involved with the tech industry for the last few years and see great opportunities for businesses and society to adopt technology as an ally. Since the industrial revolution, England has been essential in technological evolution history. There are exciting developments in sectors like transport, finance, and engineering, which is one reason I came here; I want to be part of this worldwide adaptation. In the future, I want to keep getting technology closer to people, making life easier and more enjoyable.
If you could go back in time to before you applied to UCL would there, be any advice you would give yourself about applying for your masters?
I took my time in making my application; that is the best advice I can give. It allowed me to look for different options and to get a study offer earlier, which is suitable for international students that need to move abroad. Once you get the offer, I suggest you learn about different activities such as societies, sports, and activities in advance. UCL offers many extra programmatic activities that allow for meeting new people and learning other exciting things.
And of course, bring more warm clothes.
What was your biggest challenge to coming to study in the UK and how did you overcome this?
I can identify two significant challenges for me. First is the language; I didn't use English regularly back in Chile. So, when I got accepted, I started to incorporate English into my daily life by watching movies and series, reading some interesting articles, listening to podcasts, and everything in English. Once I got here, I started practising as much as possible with classmates, societies and so on. You can initially feel insecure, but then you throw the words out.
The second challenge was returning to university after a few years of working. When you work, you get used to a routine and a rhythm. Adapting to a new academic lifestyle is difficult, but the advice here is to be flexible and enjoy every time. All people, no matter their age or culture, can teach you something.
Have you discovered any hidden gems during your time at UCL and in London?
I knew that UCL and London were cosmopolitan, but I realised how much it was once I got here. It is an incredible experience to work during class with people from all over the world, listen to their perspectives, and learn about their cultures. For example, a group of classmates and I go every two weeks to different restaurants to try traditional food from everyone's country; we have such a lovely time together talking about food, history, etc. Indeed, that is a good representation of what London is, sharing what you are and where you come from and receiving others' experiences.
Furthermore, UCL staff is always willing to help. When moving here from far away, as Chilean people do, it is natural to have doubts initially or feel a bit lost. Do not hesitate to ask for help; people are amiable in general.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
I have become a park lover. Back in Chile, I was not used to going to parks, as Santiago (my hometown) only has a few of them. I recognise that here in London I have begun to get used to them and now I'm trying to go every day to walk and listen to music... it's a kind of therapy highly recommended.
I'm a "professional milk chocolate taster". I have loved it since I was a kid, and every place I go, I try a new one. I have a ranking of it (if you are into it too, let me know and we can set up a new society.
Do you have anything further you would like to add/share?
I'm a football fan and believe me, London is one of the best cities to enjoy it (playing and watching), which is a real plus for me as well. I usually go with friends to bars during the weekends to watch the premier league, a very typical British experience.