Lisys Zaire studied A-levels at Kings before starting a degree in International Relations at Loughborough University.
She talked to us about how Kings helped her get there.
Hi Lisys. Why did you choose this university and this course?
When I came to the UK to study I knew that I wanted to go to one of the top universities here, and Loughborough is one of the top ten, so it was definitely on my list. My course, international relations, I feel it has a lot to do with me because I want to be a diplomat and I want to have a wide spectrum of knowledge — not only the politics of diplomacy, but as well the human aspect of it, and international relations covers all this.
What did you study at Kings?
At Kings I studied A-levels in History, Art and Geography.
How did Kings help you get where you are, help you get to university?
I think Kings is the reason why I am here because they gave me all the basis to come to university, not only the knowledge and academic aspects of it, but also the experience of studying in the UK and dealing with a different system. It all came together at Kings and they orientate you to what you should do, how you should study effectively and huge support after you finish your course and come to university. They are the reason why I am here.
"I think Kings is the reason why I am here because they gave me all the basis to come to university, not only the knowledge and academic aspects of it, but also the experience of studying in the UK and dealing with a different system."
What is it like studying at a British university?
I think it is the greatest experience I have ever had. It’s really different from my home country, Brazil, but it’s amazing the amount of resources you have to study and the amount of support as well. The people you meet from different cultures, from different backgrounds, it just feels like you’re really living it and really alive.
What advice would you give to future Kings students?
My advice would be just believe in yourself because I know when you come here at first from a different country it can be difficult and it can be challenging, but just believe in yourself and believe in your capacity to reach all your goals, and with the help of Kings, they definitely will make you realise that and you will do amazing — so just believe in yourself.
What do you plan to do after university?
After university I plan to work, get some work experience for a year or two and then start my masters to get some more professionalizing in my career.
How did coming to the UK change you as a person, as a student?
Coming to the UK made me more independent because when you’re out of your comfort zone you see yourself in a situation where you need to interact and need to change, so I definitely became more social, more independent and much more responsible with my studies having to do everything by myself. You just discover yourself and who you are, who you want to be and I think that’s something really important if you want to grow up in life.
