Get a sense of what it might be like when you arrive at UAL. Click on an image below or browse the full playlist.
Anders
Anders is one of the first students on a new course. He shares his experience of loneliness, the challenges of working with others and why friends are so important.
▶ Listen to the short version (01:53)
Rose
Recent graduate Rose gives her advice on writing dissertations, the value of criticism and what lessons she’s learned, looking back.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:46)
Charlotte
Charlotte, from London, chats about how her experience as a mature student has helped her look at her own practice in a new way.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:57)
Enubi and Vy
Eunbi and Vy talk about how they adapted to studying in the UK, what they’ve learned working with students from different cultures and subject areas
▶ Listen to the short version (3:17)
Ploynita
Ploynita left a family business and her home country to come to UAL. She talks about gaining acceptance from her family and building relationships here.
▶ Listen to the short version (01:54)
Katie and Elise
Katie and Elise talk about getting through their first few weeks at college, the importance of kindness, risk-taking and managing stress.
▶ Listen to the short version (03:40)
Ayaba
At first, Ayaba was afraid of being overwhelmed and now she encourages herself to experiment, take risks in her work and share her ideas. Hear her story.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:51)
Semen
Semen talks about the first few days at UAL, making friends, finding support and embracing the diversity of London.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:46)
Ann Marie
Ann Marie reflects on her career transition into the creative industries. She also talks about doing her MA and how she found inspiration in the different cultures at UAL.
▶ Listen to the short version (03:48)
Hussein
Hussein, from London, talks about life in his city, making the most of being a student and why he chose UAL.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:43)
Wei
After 5 months at UAL, Wei is confident about communicating and collaborating with others. She tells us what she’s learned.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:50)
Philipp and Santiago
Philipp and Santiago give advice on adjusting to life in London and getting the most from colleagues and staff, from critical feedback and from self-reflection.
▶ Listen to the short version (2:13)
Tamar
Tamar shares her experiences of bringing her family to London, moving into a new career and starting an MA.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:21)
Frank and Nicolas
Frank and Nicolas discuss ways students can find support at UAL such as doing sports, talking to peer mentors and through the student community.
▶ Listen to the short version (03:16)
Shupin
Shupin has learnt to overcome her fears, to speak up and to try new things. She offers great advice for new students.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:19)
Uzo
Uzo talks about her time at UAL as a study-abroad student from US and why she changed courses to do something she loves.
▶ Listen to the short version (03:22)
Raahim
Raahim moved from forensic science to womenswear. He talks about overcoming doubt and family resistance, working hard and managing his time.
▶ Listen to the short version (2:56)
Lourdes
Lourdes is doing a one-year MA at UAL that’s all teamwork, so students must learn to work together. She shares what this meant for her.
▶ Listen to the short version (2:08)
Babett
Babett covers many topics from seeking out personal projects with other students, to finding her passion and managing stress.
▶ Listen to the short version (03:39)
Lesley
Lesley, from China, talks about how she has found friends from around the world, discovered a new way of learning and gained confidence.
▶ Listen to the short version (3:04)
Veronique
Veronique from the US talks about diversity and inclusion at UAL, coping with difficult times, academic writing and the importance of reflection.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:40)
Molly
Since starting at UAL, Molly has gained confidence and feels more positive and connected to our diverse student community
▶ Listen to the short version (02:52)
Charlie and Sissy
Chinese students Charlie and Sissy tell us why they chose to study at UAL. They also describe a typical week here and give useful tips on how to do well in your course.
▶ Listen to the short version (03:09)
Vince
Vince reflects on his own failure and uncertainty, his focus on health and wellbeing and the value embracing diversity, and connecting with different people.
▶ Listen to the short version (03:25)
Hannah
Hannah talks about the early challenges she faced with language and British culture but also how she found a place she could be herself.
▶ Listen to the short version (01:29)
Catarina
Catarina describes having to reapply to UAL before being accepted. She shares a ‘typical’ week at university and why her friendships and other support are so important to her.
▶ Listen to the short version (03:14)
Mathilda
Mathilda shares her experience of having a learning disability, developing a good way of working and discovering creativity in her writing.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:32)
Jade and Mim
Foundation students, Jade and Mim, share their experiences of coming to London, studying independently and finding support and guidance.
▶ Listen to the short version (02:55)
