German and Arabic, University of Leeds

Name: George Goss

University: University of Leeds

Program: German and Arabic

Year of Study: Year 2

Contact details: georgegoss@outlook.com

Instagram: @ggossphoto

Institution: Program:

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Campus Facilities: Academic Environment:

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Social Life: Career Planning Opportunities:

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Overall Experience:

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Contrast Between Workload hours in University vs High School:

I did less work in university than in high school

Same number of hours

1-3 more hours of work in university

4-6 more hours of work in university

7-9 more hours of work in university

10+ more hours of work in university

What made you choose your institution over others?

I never intended to go to uni; I only came as my visa ran out abroad. One of the best decisions of my life. My campus is large but manageable. I don’t have any pressing negative things to say about Leeds.

What did you wish you knew before choosing your specific program?

I would have studied more in preparation and familiarised myself with the course modules. Everything was on offer but I didn’t take the initiative.

What was your best experience at university?

One was an Omani/Middle Eastern society event, where local people cooked the most beautiful food for everyone. There was dancing and stimulating conversation. There was no alcohol which made the event incongruous to other university functions where alcohol is intrinsic to sparking discussions.

What was your worst university experience?

Making so many beautiful friends, starting to feel intimate with an individual and developing important relationships with sources of knowledge to then have it all ripped away by coronavirus and the lockdown.

What is the hardest part about your program and what were the steps that you took to overcome any difficulties?

Keeping up with revision and assignments, while also trying to maintain social interactions and just enjoying the ride. I had to find a balance.

What was your favourite module/course and why?

I found Middle Eastern and Arabic studies very enthralling. It equipped me with important knowledge pertinent to my study of the language.

What tips and advice would you give to first year students?

Don’t worry, be yourself and study hard.