Aakriti Sahdev

Why did you choose Brunel University?

I am originally from a small town named Chandigarh, in the North of India. I always did well in English and wanted to pursue my studies abroad. Studying wasn’t my only motive for living abroad; it was overall development and exposure to all sorts of people from all walks of life! As an international student, I didn’t know much about universities in England, but based on what I learned from my friends studying in the UK, especially London, I felt that Brunel supported students from every country in the world. That’s what attracted me to Brunel.

How would you describe the learning experience?

The best thing about Brunel is how warm and understanding its teachers are. They never make you feel like an outsider. Also it’s a great platform if English isn’t your first language. Being a creative writing student, I particularly enjoyed studying the fiction and drama modules in year one. I love scriptwriting and writing the short story in the first term of second year and I’m really looking forward to studying journalism in the second term since these skills help to give direction to all the random thoughts that come into a writer’s mind and help develop raw talent.

What skills are you developing? What are some of the benefits for you?

The most useful skill that I’ve acquired at Brunel has been dealing with all kinds of people. I can now work in new environments without being conscious of being different. Also, Brunel has helped me to develop a lot of positivity and confidence. Brunel has also taught me how to behave like a true professional and deal with work on a more mature level.

Beyond the classroom, what do you like about the Brunel student experience?

Being from India, I’ve always tried to showcase our culture along with the others on an equal basis. I’ve been involved in the Sikh and Hindu society and I’ve participated in a lot of events from the Pakistan society. Brunel is a hub of activity at all times; you end up learning so much and having so much fun!

How is Brunel helping you to achieve your long-term goals?

In the longer term, I aim to complete an MA in Marketing and move on to a career in Advertising. Studying English and Creative Writing is improving the calibre of my writing and communications skills.

In your view, why should prospective students choose Brunel?

Brunel provides a welcoming environment for international students. You never feel as if you are alone or being excluded on the grounds of ethnicity or place of origin. Brunel also provides an amazing infrastructure, a terrific campus and great teachers, counsellors and mentors.

At Brunel, there is a real passion for learning and teaching English Literature and Creative Writing. The lecturers and seminar leaders are very involved in what they’re teaching and make sure the student is comfortable with what’s being taught. Criticism and feedback are an essential part of the learning process. Learning through writing, feedback and revision plays an important role in the student’s development and success, especially in Creative Writing.