I found the lecturers to be really welcoming and so evidently passionate about their work which was very inspiring

Why did you choose to study East Asia?

I chose to study East Asia as it combines fields I find interesting academically, such as history and politics, but focuses on a region I’m passionate about. As someone who has been consuming East Asian popular culture since I was in primary school, the course is a perfect overlap between both my academic and personal interests. General history courses didn’t have the same appeal to me as East Asian Studies where I could see my passions would truly be able to thrive.

What attracted you to the University of Sheffield?

Looking through the available modules was what initially attracted me to the University of Sheffield. To me, the School of East Asian Studies offered the best range of topics and disciplines in comparison to other universities I had researched. Rather than feeling unsure of what I would choose to study, I was struggling to narrow down my options! Furthermore, my open day experience was really lovely and I found the lecturers to be really welcoming and so evidently passionate about their work which was very inspiring. Plus, the extensive variety of East Asian Studies material in the libraries, beautiful campus green spaces such as Western Park and overall university atmosphere really made me fall in love with the University of Sheffield.

Has your course lived up to your expectations so far?

My course has succeeded my expectations. I underestimated the scope of what you can learn in a multidisciplinary course and really enjoy the mix of topics that I am studying. While they are all clearly linked and thoughtfully planned around an East Asia focus, individual modules are unique and keep my learning experience diverse and exciting. I have also found my interactions with lecturers to exceed my expectations. If I have any questions or topics I wish to talk about further, my lecturers have always been incredibly open to discussion and signpost me to further materials. I definitely feel as though I am working in collaboration with others and academically have grown immensely.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

What I enjoy most is studying a course that I am truly passionate about. Given the somewhat niche nature of the department, it attracts students and staff with really unique interests and specialities which is reflected in module content and discussion. As a result of this, I have been encouraged to research further my own topics of interest which I have been able to weave into my taught content and assessment. One week is never the same as another, especially due to the diverse nature of interdisciplinary study, which has contributed to a consistently positive and enthusiastic approach I have toward my studies.

What do you enjoy doing outside of your studies? (hobbies, interests, societies)

Outside of my studies, I am very active in student leadership and societies. I am an academic and faculty representative for East Asian Studies and meet regularly with students and staff to discuss department related issues. This makes me feel very involved in decision-making in a space where I know my opinion is valued. I am the Vice President and secretary of East Asia Society which I really enjoy; it brings students together with similar interests and is a great social space. I particularly enjoy working with the department to set up really cool events and talks related to East Asia in a less formal setting. Like most students, I also enjoy watching Netflix (particularly Korean dramas) and have a passion for rock music, especially Japanese rock and visual kei. So when I can, I like going to concerts in and around Sheffield.

Do you know what you want to do at the end of your course?

At the moment, I am interested in going on to do a masters in East Asian international relations. I have been considering a career in such an area, or perhaps going into teaching. Largely I am seeing what doors open along the way as my interests and skills develop!