Colombia

Hola, mi nombre es Laura Naranjo, estudiante colombiana de postgrado del MSc Politics, Communications and Data Analytics. Escogí la Universidad de Essex porque tiene un excelente y distinguido departamento de gobierno, también por la calidad de sus profesores y programas académicos. La universidad también cuenta con grandes espacios e instalaciones, y está ubicada en Colchester, una gran ciudad para vivir como estudiante y con una ubicación perfecta para viajar a Londres o a cualquier parte del Reino Unido. Siempre me apasionó la idea de estudiar por fuera de mi país, considero que es una oportunidad muy completa ya que le das una perspectiva más internacional a tu carrera, conoces otras culturas y te desafías a ti mismo. Essex ofrece una cantidad de actividades que puedes hacer adicionales a tu carrera y que finalmente complementan tu experiencia aquí. Hay miles de sociedades, grupos y eventos que hacen que la Universidad se vuelva no solo un espacio de estudio sino también un nuevo hogar.

Ever since I finished my bachelor I've dreamt of becoming a specialist in migration. I focused on finding the best program in the world to do it. Among the most interesting programs I found, was the one offered by the University of Essex because of its approach and well-known staff. Then, thanks to an agreement between a Colombian institution (COLFUTURO) and the University of Essex, I won a scholarship that covered the tuition fee. Therefore, it made me able to come to Essex to make my dreams a reality. After coming here and see how the University and the Course are, I am happy about being here. The opportunities that I identified are infinite and invaluable. One remarkable thing that I love about the University of Essex is its cultural diversity and the considerable number of international students that one can find. I am learning not only from my teachers but also from my classmates who came from all around the world and are willing to share their stories. The best of the University of Essex is that one can travel without moving. One can see the world through other’s eyes and can realize the junctures and problems present in other countries. Besides, the University of Essex has several societies that one can join and where one can learn a lot of things while sharing laughter and skills with other students. I am enrolled as a member in three of these societies: Latin America Society, Arts and Craft Society and Student Action for Refugee Society. Each of these societies has brought me, wonderful people to share with and learn from. By working along with students from other departments, I could complement the readings and lectures. This is an opportunity that everyone needs to take. Overall, if I would have the opportunity to choose another university, I will not change the University of Essex for any.