Shufan
What attracted me to Huddersfield
When I was choosing a university, I focused on finding a place that combined academic excellence with affordability and a supportive student community. The University of Huddersfield stood out because of its TEF Gold award for teaching excellence, a recognition not held by many universities in the region.
Another major factor was affordability. Huddersfield is known for being one of the most budget-friendly locations for students in the UK, with a range of affordable accommodation options available through HudLets, the University’s accommodation service.
The University’s reputation for strong industry links and high employability rates also reassured me that I would be investing in a future with real career prospects.
“The combination of high-quality education and cost-effectiveness made Huddersfield an ideal choice for me.”
Scholarship support
When I started at the University, I was awarded a £2,000 International Undergraduate Scholarship based on my prior academic performance. This scholarship is automatically awarded to international students who meet the eligibility criteria, without the need for a separate application.
This financial support helped reduce the burden of tuition fees and allowed me to focus more on my studies and extracurricular activities. It also reinforced to me, the University’s commitment to supporting its international students, which made me feel welcomed and valued from the start.
Studying Information Technology
What I love most about my course is its versatility. Studying Information Technology at Huddersfield gives you the chance to explore different areas within the field, which has helped me identify my strengths and interests. The modules cover a wide range of topics, from cybersecurity and data analysis to web programming and databases, giving me a solid foundation in both the technical and strategic aspects of IT.
The mix of theoretical knowledge and practical projects makes the learning process engaging and directly applicable to real-world scenarios. I also appreciate the University’s close ties with industry, which ensures that the curriculum reflects current industry trends and prepares us for the job market.
Outstanding teaching
The teaching quality at Huddersfield is outstanding. The lecturers are not only experts in their fields but also approachable and supportive. Many of them have industry backgrounds, which allows them to share practical insights alongside theoretical knowledge.
The small class sizes enable interactive learning and give students the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussions. The University also offers regular one-on-one sessions with PATs (Personal Academic Tutors) to provide additional guidance and support. This creates a learning environment where students feel seen and supported, rather than just being part of a large group.
“The support for international students at Huddersfield is exceptional.”
Supporting my studies
The International Office is always available to help with any issues related to visas, academic adjustments, or personal concerns.
I attended an international orientation week at the start of my first year, which helped me settle in and connect with other students from similar backgrounds. The university also provides language support through the English Language Support Programme and offers guidance on working part-time and managing finances as an international student. This network of support has made it easier for me to adapt to life in the UK and succeed academically.
A balance of calm and excitement
I would highly recommend the University of Huddersfield to other international students. The University provides a strong academic foundation with excellent teaching quality and a high employability rate, which makes it an ideal place to pursue higher education.
But beyond academics, Huddersfield offers the perfect balance of calm and excitement. Being located between Manchester and Leeds, you get the benefit of living in a peaceful, student-friendly town while still having easy access to the vibrant city life just a short train ride away. This balance allows you to focus on your studies while also having opportunities to relax and enjoy life outside of university.
“University life isn’t just about studying. Getting involved in societies and clubs has helped me get out of the routine of studying, meet amazing people and create lasting memories. It’s truly enriched my university experience.”
Activities outside my studies
I’ve been actively involved with the Pakistani Society, which has been a great way to stay connected with my culture and meet other Pakistani students. We organise social events, cultural nights and community gatherings, which have helped me feel at home despite being far from Pakistan.
I’ve also joined several other societies and clubs, which have allowed me to meet new people, explore different interests and build a stronger network.
I also work as a retail assistant at the SU shop which has given me valuable work experience and insight into how the Students’ Union supports students. This has helped me develop professional skills like communication and customer service, and made me feel more connected to the University community.
“The Global Professional Award (GPA) has been one of the most valuable aspects of my time at Huddersfield.”
Completing the Global Professional Award (GPA)
The GPA programme involved workshops and training sessions focused on building professional skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. It also covered important topics like cultural awareness and global citizenship, which have helped me become more confident in working with diverse teams.
The mock interviews and career guidance sessions prepared me for real-world job applications, and the feedback I received helped me improve my approach. The GPA also introduced me to networking opportunities and gave me a better understanding of the job market, which will definitely give me an edge when applying for future roles.
Careers and Employability service
The Careers and Employability service has been incredibly supportive throughout my time at Huddersfield, especially as I’m currently in my second year and preparing for my placement year. They’ve provided valuable guidance on improving my CV and cover letters and have helped me develop key skills to perform well in interviews.
I also had the opportunity to attend a mock interview, which gave me practical experience and boosted my confidence. What’s even more reassuring is that the support doesn’t end after graduation, I can still access the Careers and Employability service after completing my degree. This level of support makes me feel confident about my future career prospects.
Student accommodation
Finding student accommodation at Huddersfield was relatively easy thanks to HudLets, run by the Students’ Union. They helped me explore my options and find a place that suited my budget and preferences.
I chose to stay in university-managed halls, which are close to campus and offer great facilities like study rooms, laundry and communal areas. The rent is quite affordable compared to other UK towns and cities, and the location makes it easy to get to lectures and University events. The social aspect has been rewarding too, I’ve made close friends at my accommodation, which made settling in much smoother.
Representing other students
One of my best experiences at Huddersfield has been representing students as a Student Ambassador and working with the International Office. Meeting new students, guiding them through their university journey and helping them settle in has been incredibly rewarding.
Another memorable experience was campaigning for the Students’ Union Education Officer position, even though I didn’t win. It was a valuable learning experience that strengthened my public speaking and leadership skills. These experiences have shaped my confidence, leadership, and ability to adapt to new challenges.
