Joana Bica - BSc (Hons) Psychology

Portuguese Psychology student Joana Bica discovers Plymouth has it all
Joana Bica

鈥淐hoosing to study at the 抖阴短视频 was the best decision I ever made.鈥 

鈥淚 came to an open day at the University and it seemed like such a friendly place. The Student Ambassadors were delighted to be there and that was a positive sign to me. I loved the fact that the campus is so close to everything, including accommodation.鈥

Meet and greet

A home from home

鈥淭he Meet and Greet service was helpful in finding where I had to go, as were the Student Ambassadors. If you get lost, you鈥檒l find someone to help you.
Once I got to my accommodation my stuff was in my room in no time, it was quick and efficient and the ambassadors were friendly and happy to help.鈥

Becoming an international local

鈥淏eing an International Student may sometimes leave you feeling a little lost, confused or lonely. However, I鈥檝e been at the University for less than a year and I鈥檝e never been happier.
I would recommend undertaking a course with the 抖阴短视频 because there are many course options so there is something for everyone, and no matter what area of teaching the lecturers are passionate about their subject and that鈥檚 inspiring.
There鈥檚 always someone who can help, and it鈥檚 made clear where that help is available.鈥

鈥淐ome to the UK with an open mind as the culture, food and the people will be a little different to what you鈥檙e used to but within a blink of an eye, it will feel like you're at home."

Joana explains why she chose to come to the UK to study
That鈥檚 how I met my current friends, just try to get added to your course group and from there message people and ask to meet up.
Research how public transport works so you will be able to get around easily and visit friends.
Living in the UK has provided me with amazing opportunities I wouldn鈥檛 have been able to pursue in Portugal.
Bring a few of your favourite snacks, appropriate clothing for the (cold) weather, adaptable plugs and photos of family and friends to make you feel at home.鈥
Things to bring to university

Nothing to worry about

鈥淐ome to the UK with an open mind as the culture, food and the people will be a little different to what you鈥檙e used to but within a blink of an eye, it will feel like you're at home.
Be prepared for British life, the UK is diverse and welcoming of people from all around the world so you'll find plenty of fellow international students in the same situation 鈥 you won鈥檛 be alone.
Everyone wants to make friends, you won鈥檛 be the only one.
Facebook groups are a good way to meet people and find out what鈥檚 happening.
Open day student ambassador
Drake's Reservoir

Bite-size learning

鈥淚 like going to the Reservoir Cafe to enjoy the nice views, especially when the sun is out. It鈥檚 a great place to sit outside with your laptop. The Student Union shop is handy for snacks at an affordable price, especially when I鈥檓 studying at the nearby library. Bella Italia restaurant is recommended too. It鈥檚 not far from campus and they offer a good student discount.鈥
 
The Hoe, Plymouth聽
Smeatons Tower, The Hoe, plymouth
The Hoe, Plymouth
鈥淲hen the weather is pleasant I pop down to Plymouth Hoe, as it鈥檚 beautiful and there are many places to sit with friends and enjoy the scenery.
I use the library to get my work done and watch films with my flatmates to relax.鈥

鈥淭he Hoe is the most beautiful place in Plymouth, in my opinion.鈥

 

Inspired by this story?

For more information about our range of psychology courses within the School of Psychology, please visit the school page.

Want to find similar alumni?

If you would like to find out what other relevant alumni are currently doing, please visit the psychology and social sciences interest area.


BSc Psychology