What’s your background?
My name is Natalia. I was born and raised in St Petersburg, Russia. I studied Scandinavian languages and literature at St Petersburg State University.
After graduating, I worked in sales and helped develop Danish-Russian trade. I was also involved with independent democratic political organisations and was elected to my local council. Ten years after graduating, I decided to pursue a Master’s degree in public administration at UCL.
Why did you choose to study IPM at UCL?
UCL was my first choice for postgraduate study, so I was very happy when I found the International Pre-Master’s (IPM) at UCL.
UCL’s central London location was important to me, and I was also attracted by UCL’s global reputation and the reputation of the Institute of Education. The IPM was a great opportunity not only to prepare for my Master’s degree, but also to get to know the UCL campus and become familiar with the academic environment.
How is the UK education system different to your home country?
The biggest difference is the level of independence expected from students. Studying in the UK is all about autonomy. You need to analyse academic papers critically, apply theoretical frameworks to real-life cases and take responsibility for your own learning.
It is not just about attending lectures and seminars. You also need to spend time reading papers and articles, and working independently to understand the topics covered in class.
Which degree are you studying now and what is it like?
I am studying a Master’s degree in public administration at UCL.
How has the IPM helped you in your degree?
The IPM helped me understand what would be expected of me during postgraduate study. I was able to practise many of the assessment types used on Master’s degrees, including vivas, oral presentations, seminars, open-book exams and closed-book exams.
For me, the IPM was like taking the first month of a Master’s programme and stretching it over a few months. It gave me time to understand each part of the study process, including how to study effectively, prepare for lectures and seminars, and make the most of my programme.
What was the biggest challenge you faced during your time on the IPM and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge for me was developing the ability to self-study. It is easy to understand the idea of independent study, but more difficult to put it into practice.
The IPM helped me overcome this by giving me time and support to build those skills gradually. It helped me become more confident in my English, in my choice of Master’s programme and in my ability to study at UCL.
What advice would you give to future IPM students?
You do not need to have a crystal-clear vision of exactly what you want to study or where you want to go next before starting the IPM. Postgraduate study is a major life decision, and it is completely normal to still be working things out.
The IPM is a safe space where tutors help you work through your concerns and build your confidence for the journey ahead.
What is it like to live and study in London?
I love London. It is an incredible city.
On my first day of classes, a professor told me that if you want something, London has definitely got it — you just have to look for it and go for it. That is true. London has everything for learning, work, personal development, fun and happiness. You just need to try things and find your own way.
