Enriching my knowledge in the UK

MA Student LAwrence Lo Standing in a park
Lawrence Lo
Master's Student
MA International Relations
MA International Relations student Lawrence worked in the education bureau of Hong Kong before studying at Sheffield. He discusses the transition from working life to postgraduate education.

What were you doing before you came to study a Master’s at Sheffield?

Before I moved to the UK, I worked for the Education Bureau of the Hong Kong Government. In the past two summers, I also worked for the Pearson as a Processing Assistant for their Quarantine Team. 

Why did you decide to study a Master’s instead of continuing working where you were?

What happened in Hong Kong played a role in my decision to moving to the UK. Secondly, although we are in an age of information explosion, I still find myself knowing very little on what is going on in the world. I think I need to systematically enrich my knowledge.

Why did you decide to study a Master’s at Sheffield?

It is because I graduated from another University in Sheffield. I am quite familiar with the city and have a lot of good memories here. 

What was the transition from working life to postgraduate study like?

Obviously I have got quite a lot to pick up, particularly when I have never studied politics before. I spend a reasonable amount of time on reading and preparing for seminars. Overall, I find it very rewarding.

What are your plans after you graduate?

I’m not too sure really. On one hand, I may still work for the Pearson every summer. On the other hand, I am not afraid to take on some new challenges. I would also like to further my study and do a PhD, but it really depends on if I can find an interesting topic and get myself equipped with the necessary qualities.

What have you enjoyed most about studying International Relations at Sheffield?

I enjoy the city, I enjoy making friends, and I enjoy the varieties offered by the programme. The tutors are really helpful and knowledgeable. 

Do you have any advice for people thinking about studying in the UK after working?

Studying in Sheffield was a no brainer for me. The environment is good, people are friendly, the cost of living is relatively low compared to other major cities in the UK. If you want to come and study in the UK, just remember to be open-mined and embrace the cultural difference. Then the sky is your only limit.

Four students laughing while sat at a bench, outside the Students' Union

International Merit Scholarships

We offer a generous package of financial support for international students including 75 undergraduate scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee and 125 postgraduate taught scholarships worth £5,000 towards the tuition fee. Applications are now open for existing offer holders.