Meruyert Zhazylbekova studied the Advanced Level Foundation and is now at Lancaster University studying Business Management.
She talked to us about how Kings helped her get here.
What degree subject are you studying here at Lancaster, and how was your first term?
I’m studying Business Management here at Lancaster.
Previously I studied in Kings Brighton, which was a really wonderful experience in my life. Our teachers were really helpful, they taught us and helped us with everything. Especially with applying to university — there was a tutor who helped us to make an application. Also we got help in writing a personal statement, which I’m very thankful for because I got an offer from Lancaster University! That made me very happy.
Is university life how you imagined?
I’m studying here in the UK for 4 years, which means that I’m familiar with the British environment. However, before I came here I wasn’t sure how it was going to feel in university, what will happen and what will go on in the university. But I’m really happy with my choice.
The university met my expectations because it is a really peaceful place, beautiful no matter what the weather! The university is really different to my previous colleges. At university you should learn by yourself, you study and meet new people and of course teachers won’t help you — however they will give you some advice that is really useful. I find it really interesting and useful experience of my life.
In what ways do you think Kings best prepared you for your degree?
Kings prepared me in a lot of ways. In how we study, teachers taught us not only in physical terms, for example in Economics or Business, which is really helpful in my studies right now, but also in the way we interacted with everyone during my foundation year. Kings taught me how to be confident, how to improve my skills, how to improve my English language of course, it also taught me how we should find ways to solve any problems, in life, or in terms of Economics or Business.
"Kings prepared me in a lot of ways. Kings taught me how to be confident, how to improve my skills, how to improve my English language of course, it also taught me how we should find ways to solve any problems, in life or in terms of Economics or Business."
What subjects did you take at Foundation, and what advice do you have for prospective students when it comes to making subject choices?
During my Foundation year I studied Data, CSS (Communication and Study Skills), Business, Economics and Maths, which were my favourite subjects. I was surprised that during my first year at Lancaster I found that that knowledge and those skills were really useful. In that way I used them to improve my study here.
My key advice would be to choose subjects that really interest you, that you are going to make a career path from. At Kings Brighton there were so many subjects to choose from. I chose Economics because I found it really important and it could teach me some key theories in terms of UK economics for example. I also really love Maths, that’s why I chose Maths.
What did you do as part of the Enrichment programme at Kings?
Kings Brighton has not only opportunities but also has different options for studying during the term. It has a lot of extracurricular activities, such as art, if you like art you can join the club. Others were music, singing, dancing. I really advise you to join a lot of clubs that will improve and develop your identity and your skills.
What support did you have from Kings in the university application process?
I got a lot of support from my tutor, who helped me to make an application to my university. Also I was helped in writing the personal statement, which was really important before applying to university. I want to tell you that you don’t have to worry – you will get support and teachers and tutors will really help you.
My experience in Kings Brighton was not only useful but was also wonderful because I made new friends and I developed my communication and interpersonal skills, which will help me to find a part-time job.
Currently I’m working here as an International Student Ambassador — I find it really interesting because I meet new people, I deliver campus tours. I see how people are impressed, and also they want to know more about the campus.
"I got a lot of support from my tutor, who helped me to make an application to my university. Also I was helped in writing the personal statement, which was really important before applying to university."
Why did you decide on Lancaster, and are you pleased with your choice?
I’m happy with my choice. Lancaster University was my first choice so I’m really pleased. I decided to be here because I found a really peaceful, and of course, safe place. The most important thing is that Lancaster is in the Top 10 rankings, in the university league tables. Also I would be able to focus on my studies and nothing would stop me.
Despite the fact that it is really far away for example, from London, I don’t complain because I really like the place. It gave me a lot of opportunities and a lot of chances to develop my skills and meet new people and make new friends from around the world.
What are your plans for after you graduate?
I will be studying here for 3 years and after I graduate I’m planning to work here for a couple of years and get some work experience, which will contribute to my career in the future. After that probably I will do a master's degree which will extend my qualifications. But we’ll see what will happen!
After I graduate I also want to work and travel at the same time. I hope that my future career will be based on gaining new experiences and meeting new people.
