Cardiff University International Office

[Event] Cardiff University Graduation 2010

2010-07-30T10:24:00.001+01:00

We thought you might be interested to hear about this year’s graduation ceremonies at Cardiff University which were held during the week of the 12th-16th July 2010 at St. David’s National Concert Hall in Cardiff city centre.

This year 556 International students graduated from Cardiff University, with families and friends all attending the ceremony to celebrate and share in their achievements and success. A popular service delivered by Cardiff University’s Web Team was the streaming of the ceremonies live on the website. For family members who were unable to make it to the UK for the event, they were still able to watch the ceremonies live online.

Stephen Fry was awarded an Honorary Fellowship during the week and you can watch his speech online.

If you’re thinking about coming to study here at Cardiff University you might be interested to learn more about the recent ceremonies. You can find out more by visiting our website at: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/graduation/

We would like to congratulate all those who graduated this year and wish them every success in their future careers!

[Student View] The Girl Diary

2010-06-25T15:22:00.003+01:00

Are you thinking about what it will be like when you come to Cardiff and to Cardiff University?

This blog might offer some good tips and advice on what life is like at the University, residences and what are the best ways to stay in touch with friends and family back home once you arrive.

You can read this helpful blog from a current student at Cardiff University at:
http://thegirlydiary.blogspot.com/2010/06/everything-about-cardiff-university.html

[Event] Cardiff University Graduate Career and Jobs fair

2010-06-25T14:55:00.000+01:00

Cardiff University hosted a Graduate Careers fair on 10th June 2010. Over 50 companies were represented there!

We interviewed some of the company representatives including IBM and Deloitte. We also interviewed some international students on the day.

Aled Williams gave some careers advice to prospective and current students at Cardiff University.

[Student View] Cardiff University student wins regional Shine! Award 2010

2010-05-27T15:48:00.003+01:00

Another two videos have been uploaded to our YouTube channel. This time we profile Mahfuzah Zainol, an occupational therapy student from Malaysia. Mahfuzah was the Wales regional winner of the Shine! Awards 2010.

Part 1 of the videos is titled 'Mahfuzah's story'. In it, Mahfuzah talks about her experiences as an international student in Cardiff.

In Part 2, 'Shine! awards 2010', Mahfuzah explains what winning an award means to her.

The Shine! awards are run by the British Council and celebrate the achievements of international students who are studying in the UK. International students from all walks of life and stages of education are invited to write a "letter home" explaining how they feel an education in the UK is preparing them for a brighter future.

12 regional finalists were selected from over 1300 students from 121 different countries. 24 year old Melissa Illboudo from Burkina Fasa won the title of International Student of the Year 2010 at a glitzy awards ceremony in London which all of the 12 finalists were invited to.

Last year's Wales regional finalist, Alex Leung, is also a student at Cardiff University and his story can be watched on our YouTube channel.

We encourage international students studying at Cardiff to enter the awards in 2011, it is a great way to reflect on your studies and if you are selected as a regional finalist there is a prize of £1000 up for grabs!

Our congratulations once again to Mahfuzah, what a talented bunch Cardiff University students are!

Enjoy the sunshine!

Beckie

[Event] Cardiff University Nigerian students visit the National Museum of Wales…

2010-05-19T11:56:00.002+01:00

Last month, the International office organised a cultural day out for our Nigerian agent, Mrs Deve Omiunu who was visiting Cardiff University.

Our Nigerian students were invited to join us on our trip to Saint Fagan’s National History Museum (an outdoor Folk Museum of Welsh Life) for an afternoon of culture in the delightful grounds. St Fagan’s is one of our popular organised trips available to new students upon their arrival to Cardiff during induction week.

You can find out more information about this wonderful 'living' museum at:
www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/stfagans

During the trip, Deve and the students enjoyed a day of pottery making, dressing up in traditional costumes, taking part in a school reconstruction from the 19th century, visiting the castle and its grounds, and sampling Welsh delicacies such as bara brith (a Welsh type of bread) and cakes.

The trip was a great success, organised by Rhian Curtis, Senior International Officer who recently joined the International Office team and has country management responsibility for Sub-Saharan Africa.

Please view some photos of the trip and highlights of St Fagans through our FlickR stream below…

Rhia

[Event] 2010 – Cardiff University hosts its biggest Go Global Festival of Culture and Diversity

2010-05-19T11:53:00.000+01:00

This popular, annual event in our students’ calendar has grown year upon year since the idea was created 7 years ago. The Go Global event is organised by the University’s Student’s Union to showcase the diversity and various cultures of our student body, where each year we receive fantastic support and input from a large number the international societies.

This year we saw a record number of guests attend Go Global with over 900 students enjoying the colourful celebrations and performances, including a preview of Act One’s forthcoming production of Footloose, a performance by Cardiff University Dancesport and many impressive performances by the international societies.

Carys Hazell, Societies, Events and Activities Officer, said: “I am delighted with the success of this year’s Global Village. Global Village has gone on to become one of the most exciting and meaningful events in the student calendar.

“Global Village enabled us to celebrate the diversity and amazing talents of the student body in a fun and imaginative way and we really are indebted to the hard work of all the societies that made the event possible.”

View some photographs of the societies and performances held on the evening via our FlickR stream below…

Rhia

[Info] Meet Cardiff University in GHANA & NIGERIA

2010-04-08T10:44:00.002+01:00

If you are from Ghana and Nigeria and thinking about studying at Cardiff - here is your opportunity to have a chat with one of our representatives.

Rhian Curtis, Senior International Officer, will be visiting Ghana and Nigeria this month. Details below.

Stuart

Ghana

Date: Thursday 15th April: 11.00 - 18.00
Event: PFL Education Exhibition
Venue: The Golden Tulip Hotel, Kumasi

Date: Saturday 17th April: 11.00 - 18.00
Event: PFL Education Exhibition
Venue: La Palm beach hotel. Accra

Nigeria

Date: Monday 19th April - Tuesday 20th April: 11.00 - 18.00
Event: PFL Education Exhibition
Venue: The Lagoon Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos

Date: Thursday 22nd April - Friday 23rd April: 11.00 - 18.00
Event: PFL Education Exhibition
Venue: Congress Hall at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja

Date: Saturday 24th April: 11.00 - 18.00
Event: PFL Education Exhibition
Venue: The Banquet Hall, Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja

[Event] Malaysian Student Society celebrates this year’s Festival of Diversity in style. View photos from the evening...

2010-03-31T12:45:00.002+01:00

Following the success of last year’s MSSCF’s Festival of Diversity; picking up ‘Best Cultural Event Award’ out of 130 societies at the University, this year’s event was eagerly awaited by our MSSCF members and guests.

The team hosted a spectacular evening of music, drama and entertainment, entitled ‘Heritage’; promoting Malaysia’s unique culture to friends and colleagues of the University and fellow Malaysians throughout the UK.

On Saturday 20th February, the Reardon Smith Theatre ~ National Museum of Wales was filled with over 300 guests, who were wooed with delicious Malaysian delicacies and entertained by the glittering cultural performances representing many states of Malaysia.

The society decided to centre this year’s Festival of Diversity around the asymmetrical dagger indigenous to Malaysia – the Keris; both a weapon and spiritual object, symbolising Malaysia’s cultural identity. Guests enjoyed traditional Malaysian music and mesmerising dance performances.

The evening was a great success, hosted by the President of the Malaysian Society, Bin Hao, who commented, “The practices, the ambala sessions and the post-practice 'lectures', shall always be the best memories kept close to our hearts. Together we made the night a true success.”

Photos from the evening can be viewed here:

Rhia

[Info] Cardiff University in Ontario (Canada) this May

2010-03-27T14:00:00.006Z

If you live in Ontario, you might like to know that I will be visiting Toronto, Ottawa and Thunder Bay in the first week of May.

If you would like to meet up to discuss any aspect of admission to Cardiff University - get in touch. Email hillse3@cardiff.ac.uk or leave a comment below.

Stuart

[Student View] Chapters 7 & 8 of US Student's video diary

2010-03-25T10:00:00.000Z

Two more chapters of Kristin's video diary for you. On our YouTube channel and embedded below.

If you're starting to think about what it will be like when you come to Cardiff - these will be really interesting to you.

As always - if you like the videos please comment on them and give them a rating. This helps other students find them when they're searching for information about Cardiff University and makes us feel happy!

Stuart

Chapter 7: Living in Cardiff

Chapter 8: First Few Days

[Student View] Celebrating St. David's Day

2010-03-24T15:10:00.004Z

"The Black Forest cake comes from a place called Black Forest in south-west Germany, and that's where half of my family is from!" That's Helen, from University of Newport. She teaches at a primary school, and studies Fashion Design, and she loves Welsh cakes.

"My dad's Indian, mom's Portugese. I studied in Delhi till about grade 7, then moved to Canada. And I'm here in Wales as an exchange student now. So yeah, I'm from all over." That's Anika, from University of Newport, fond of salmon and photography.

"I used to dance with my brother in Tokyo. But I'm too short to be a professional performer. So I took up stage management. I know nothing about theatre, mind you. I just deal with people, lighting and sound." Akiko, from Japan, full of vim and humour.

"I went to Bath (in England) when I was fourteen, and on going back to Colorado, I decided to work hard on my grades to come back to the UK for college. I'm happy to be here, studying piano." That's Lauren, from the USA at the Royal Welsh Academy of Music and Drama.

These aren't characters from a film (would make interesting ones though!) They are real people. I met them.

You may ask: how did I meet them?

I went to a St. Davids' Day Reception. St. David is the patron saint of Wales and on the 1st March of every year it is St. Davids' Day. Wales celebrates everything Welsh on this day - it's their national day. The bright sunshine and children scampering about, the red Welsh dragon costume parades, daffodils, the delicious Welsh food festival - its all there, all over the city of Cardiff.

The Welsh Assembly decided to make this day even more memorable by inviting international students from all the universities of Wales for a reception at The Senedd (which houses the Welsh Assembly) by the eternally pretty Cardiff Bay. The Senedd (pictured) is a beautiful building, like a glass house, and follows all the 'green' principles of construction.

At the beginning, I felt a little awkward. Going all alone for a party with a slight hope of finding familiar faces was not my idea of fun. But then, I simply went. And boy, am I glad I did! And I learnt that chatting to people isn't hard at all, as long as you strike up the right topic. It was fun.

Ministers from the Welsh Assembly were present, and were very friendly, going up to students and talking to them. Carwyn Jones, First Minister of Wales, gave the opening speech, remarking that he hoped we had learnt by now that Wales was not a part of England. That's the beauty of the Welsh. They are brilliant at self-deprecating humour. And they are ALWAYS happy.

The food was traditional: lamb cawl with laverbread, salmon and cream, Welsh sausage and mash, wine, sparkling water and tons of Welsh cake. I enjoyed the cake, obviously!

The day was fantastic. Thank goodness I went! Now I know people who will keep me updated on all the musical concerts and theatre performances around town. And I know places around Wales I have to visit next.

Awesome.

Supriya is an international student from Delhi, India
She is studying MA International Public Relations

You can read her first blog post here.
Her second blog post here.

Her third blog post here.

[Advice] Give your career a boost with these useful guides

2010-03-09T13:51:00.001Z

As an international student (or a prospective international student) you may be wondering how to use your new qualification to enhance your position in the job market.

Finding work after you graduate can seem daunting - it can be hard to know the labour market and what you should aim for.

These guides produced by NASES might help:
http://www.nases.org.uk/students/content/index.php?page=235123

They provide a useful introduction to each country and give details of resources for job seekers. They'll also be useful to you if you are considering working in a country other than your own after you graduate.

NASES also have more content for international students about working part-time in the UK: http://www.nases.org.uk/students/content/index.php?page=234963

Stuart

[Student View] Chapters 5 & 6 of the US student's video diary - travelling around Europe

2010-03-05T13:40:00.001Z

Two more chapters of Kristin's video diary have been added to our YouTube channel and embedded below.

In these chapters she talks about travelling to and from Cardiff, and using your time in Cardiff to visit mainland Europe.

If you like the videos please comment on them and give them a rating. This helps other students find them when they're searching for information about Cardiff University. We also love all of your feedback and comments.

Stuart

Chapter 5: Travelling to and from Cardiff.

Chapter 6: Travelling in Europe.

[News] Xin Nian Kuai Le! Celebrating the Year of the Tiger in Cardiff

2010-02-23T16:45:00.001Z

Happy New Year! Xin Nian Kuai Le! 新年快樂! 新年快乐!

Above are some of the pictures from the 2010 Chinese New Year Gala held in the National Museum Wales next door to Cardiff University's campus. If you are unable to see the above, you can also watch a slideshow on our Youku channel: http://u.youku.com/cardiffio

Guests from the Welsh Assembly, British Council Wales, the Chinese Embassy and schools from across Cardiff joined the Lord Mayor and staff from Cardiff University's Confucius Institute for the 2010 Chinese New Year Gala.

The Gala took place in front of over 250 guests and was principally developed by the University’s Chinese Student and Scholars Association.

The guests were lucky enough to see a range of Chinese acts including dance, film, a traditional culture fashion show and drama.

年年有餘 nián nián yǒu yú!

Stuart

[Info] Cardiff University's international festival "Go Global"

2010-02-19T12:09:00.000Z

As a prospective student I thought you would be interested in this annual event which highlights the range of cultures and backgrounds we have on campus.

Every year the student community at Cardiff University puts on a 10 day event called 'Go Global' with the aim of bringing together people from various backgrounds and cultural heritages.

The Students’ Union and the international student community host music from around the world, art workshops, a soccer tournament (last year won by Spain) and debates on international issues. Thousands of students from more than 20 different countries, and many more backgrounds, get involved.

Go Global culminates with Global Village. In addition to introducing visitors to food from more than 20 different countries, Global Village will also showcase some of the University’s diverse student performers, including Bollywood, Chinese dancing and singing, a masquerade, break dancing, an international fashion show, the Malaysian Festival of Diversity performance and many others.

You can see a video from 2009's Global Village below and find out more information on the Students' Union website:
http://www.cardiffstudents.com/activities/societies/events/go-global

Stuart

[Student View] Chapters 3 & 4 of US student's video diary

2010-02-18T14:58:00.001Z

We've uploaded the next two chapters in Kristin's video diary to our YouTube channel (embedded below).

In chapter 3 she talks about her studies and the differences between the British and US system, while in chapter 4 she gives us a demonstration of how she gets to her lectures and features some Cardiff buildings on the way.

Chapter 3: Studying at Cardiff University

Chapter 4: Getting around Cardiff

You can see her other blogs on our Youtube channel with more to follow in the next few weeks.

Stuart

[Student View] Taking a part-time course at Cardiff

2010-02-16T10:36:00.003Z

"...all I know, is that I know nothing."
- Socrates

…that's what I learnt today. This was my first class of ‘Introducing Philosophy’, a 10 week course started by Cardiff University’s Centre of Lifelong Learning. And it was good to know I wasn't the only one who felt that way!

The Cardiff Centre of Lifelong Learning offers short-term courses open to anyone interested in the subjects offered on the course. They range from language and social sciences to business and computer sciences. And the best bit, the assignments are completely optional. You want to do them, do them and get the credits. You don't want to do them, just whistle your way through the classes.

They are all part-time and therefore I can do them around my main Masters programme. It gives me the option of learning something new alongside my main degree and contributes to my overall experience while I am living in the UK.

This year, they introduced a beginner's course in Philosophy. And I, eternally desperate to understand the overrated 'meaning of life', jumped and enrolled myself for it.

Our professor is a Greek with Socrates’ style of asking questions first, confusing us and then clarifying concepts. We spent the first hour trying to figure out the meaning of “Philosophy”. I have a feeling, that like my major Public Relations, I will spend the next ten weeks trying to dissect the precise meaning of this elusive term. After much debate and discussion, it was boiled down to a method or a way of thinking about things. It involves reasoning and trying to find the logic behind things by means of questioning and discussion.

Thoroughly confused by the end (that’s the idea, I was told), I left the class having made new friends, broadened my mind and looking forward to thinking about the universe in new ways.

Supriya is an international student from Delhi, India
She is studying MA International Public Relations

You can read her first blog post here.
And her second blog post here.

[News] Discover Libyan culture on the 18th February

2010-02-12T15:20:00.002Z

Cardiff University has a rich tradition of welcoming students from Libya. Currently we have over 50 Libyan students studying with us.

Each year, the Libyan Society hosts an Open Day event where people from across the University can learn more about Libyan culture. The photos above were taken at last year's event.

This year's event is on Thursday 18th February from 12:30 onwards in the Great Hall, Students' Union. Everybody at the University is welcome to come along, try some traditional Libyan cuisine and gain further insight into a fascinating culture.

The Head of the Welsh Libyan Students' Union and current PhD student, Mostafa Abdoarrahem, is featured talking about his studies and his experiences at the University in this video.

Stuart

[Scholarship] Masters scholarship for students from Xiamen/Amoy, PR China

2010-02-10T13:07:00.005Z

If you are from, or connected to Xiamen, Fujan Province, PR China, then you might be interested in this opportunity.

The city of Cardiff is twinned with the city of Xiamen and therefore Cardiff University is offering a £2000 scholarship to one postgraduate taught/masters' student from Xiamen.

More information is available on our website:
http://courses.cardiff.ac.uk/funding/P263.html

Contact us for more information and an application form: international@cardiff.ac.uk

Stuart

[Student View] Watch a US student's video diary about her experiences at Cardiff University

2010-02-04T15:53:00.002Z

Below are the first two chapters from a video blog recorded by US student Kristin during her study abroad experiences at the University. She gives a great insight into what it is like to study here.

In the first chapter she talks about her studies and in the second chapter she shows us around her accommodation at University Hall.

More chapters to follow soon.

Enjoy!

Chapter 1: Introduction

Chapter 2: Accommodation

Stuart

[Info] Meet Cardiff University in India this February

2010-01-29T16:22:00.006Z

If you are from India and interested in studying at Cardiff, we will be visiting several cities this February.

You will be able to get more information about Cardiff University, the courses we offer and advice about making an application.

All available events are below. Hope to see you there!

If you however are unable to make any of the appointments you can contact us and join the community through Orkut: http://www.orkut.com/Main#Profile?uid=17979784092837957659

Bangalore

Date: 7th February 2010 (11am - 6pm)
Event: Global Education Interact
Venue: The Chopras, 1108 B Wing, Mittal Towers, M.G. Road, Bangalore.

For further information please call: 080 40840000, email: banagalore@thechopras.com or visit www.thechopras.co.in

Date: 8th & 9th February 2010
Event: Education UK Expo
Venue: Taj Residency

Date: 10th February 2010 (10:30am - 5:30pm)
Event: World Education Fair
Venue: Taj Residency, 41/3, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Bhaskaran Rd, Jogupalya, Bangalore.

For further information please call 080 43503333 / 25590355 / 9663881003, email: bangalore@edwiseinternational.com or visit www.edwiseinternational.com

Chennai

Date: 4th & 5th February 2010
Event: Education UK Expo
Venue: Taj Coromandel

Date: 6th February 2010 (10:30am - 5:30pm)
Event: World Education Fair
Venue: Taj Coromandel, 37, Mahatma Gandhi Road Nungambakkam, Chennai.

For further information please call: 044 42928200 / 42068985 / 9382860648, email: chennai@edwiseinternational.com or visit www.edwiseinternational.com

Coimbatore

Date: 1st February 2010 (10am - 1pm)
Event: Interviews
Venue: Campus Abroad, CA G2, 1st Floor Damodar Centre, 1050 Avinashi Rd, Coimbatore.

For an appointment please call: 0422 2249200 or email: coimbatore@campus-abroad.com

Date: 1st February 2010 (2pm - 5pm)
Event: Interviews
Venue: Edwise International, 4th Floor, Ashirwad, D B Road, R S Puram, Coimbatore.

For an appointment please call: 0422 4500474/ 9600535757 or email: coimbatore@edwiseinternational.com

Date: 2nd February 2010 (2pm - 5pm)
Event: Interviews
Venue: The Chopras, 725D/I, 4th Floor, S.R. Complex, Avinashi Road, Coimbatore.

For an appointment please call: 0422 4504313/4/5 or email: coimbatore@thechopras.com

Hyderabad

Date: 3rd February 2010 (11am - 6pm)
Event: Global Education Interact exhibition
Venue: The Chopras, 1-10-20/2 B, Pooja Edifice, 3rd Floor, Opp. Shopper’s Stop, Chikoti Gardens, Begumpet, Hyderabad.

For further information please call: 040 40361000, email: hyderabad@thechopras.com or visit: www.thechopras.co.in

Mumbai

Date: 12th February 2010
Event: World Education Fair
Venue: J W Marriott, Juhu Tara Road, Mumbai

For further information please call 022 4081 3333 / 2200 3338, email: ho@edwiseinternational.com or visit www.edwiseinternational.com

Pune

Date: 11th February 2010
Event: Education UK Expo
Venue: Le Meridien

Stuart

[Info] Meet Cardiff University in Nairobi, Kenya

2010-01-26T15:31:00.002Z

If you are from Kenya and interested in studying at Cardiff; you can meet us this February in Nairobi.

You will be able to get more information about Cardiff University, the courses we offer and advice about making an application.

We hope to see you at one of the events below.

Date: Thursday 4th February (6pm - 9.30pm)
Event: Postgraduate Fair
Venue: PanAfric Hotel, Nairobi city centre, overlooking Kenyatta Avenue.

Date: Saturday 6th February (9:30am - 4pm)
Event: UK Universities' Education Fair
Venue: Oshwal Centre.

Cardiff University staff:

Dr Ken Wann: Welsh School of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Biomedical and Life Sciences.
Dr Kevin Stagg: Cardiff Business School.
Dr Jeff Allen: Cardiff School of Biosciences and School of Medicine.
Rhian Curtis: Senior International Officer.

Stuart

[Info] Cardiff University visits Hong Kong, Brunei and Thailand

2010-01-25T10:00:00.005Z

From: Jon Wright, International Officer (pictured last year in Hong Kong).

If you would like to find out more information about studying at Cardiff University I will be visiting Southeast Asia in late January and early February to meet students and answer any questions you have.

If you would like to know more about the courses Cardiff University offers, how to apply and what it is like to live in the dynamic and multi-cultural city of Cardiff, come along to see me.

Details of my visit:

Hong Kong

Thursday 28th January
Interviews at EducationUK (3:00 – 7:00)
Venue: 303, Hollywood Commercial House, 3-5 Old Bailey Street, Central, Hong Kong
More information

Saturday 30th & Sunday 31st January
Education UK Exhibition (1:00 – 7:00)
Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

Brunei - Bandar Seri Begawan

Tuesday 2nd February
HRDs Exhibition (1:00 – 7:00)
Venue: The Empire Hotel and Country Club

Wednesday 3rd February
Education UK Exhibition (1:00 – 7:00)
Venue: The Rizqun International Hotel

Thailand – Bangkok

Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th February
Education UK Exhibition (12:00 – 6:00)
Venue: Le Royal Meridien, Plaza Athinee

Monday 8th February
HandsOn interview day (10:00 – 5:00)
More information

Tuesday 9th February
Mentor interview day (2:00 – 4:00)
More information

I look forward to meeting you soon.

Jon

[Student View] My first experience of snow!

2010-01-22T13:39:00.004Z

Ever since I came to Cardiff, I have been dying to see snow.

Hailing from a city like Delhi, where the average temperature never goes below 30-degrees Celsius for the better part of the year, I was confident that my eternal dream of seeing a soft white quilt spread across the courtyard would finally come true here.

The dream was on the verge of getting trampled when the inhabitants here told me that it "rarely snows in Cardiff". Everytime somebody would say that the winter was going to be “warm and wet”, my heart would plummet further. This year, however I have been lucky.

I saw snow. I felt snow. I walked in it. I trudged in it. I slipped on it. And I experienced all kinds of it.

One winter evening in December, while walking back from the shopping centre, small white flakes began to fall on me. I thought it was dandruff! And then I thought it was rice crispies. And then, my friend who had accompanied me, exclaimed "Its Snowing!" And my reaction was "THIS is SNOW!" I had a very different version of snow in my head. Anyway, I captured as much as I could.

That was my first. And then it never ended. The little rice flakes would fall in great numbers and form a blanket, which would soon turn hard ice, which would soon melt into sludge (thanks to the bright sun the next day!).

As December grew on, the weather became quite changeable. The mornings would see bright sunshine and a chilly breeze and the evenings would witness snowfall. At one point, in a span of an hour, I saw snowfall and the sun, each 'phenomenon' lasting for fifteen minutes alternately.

January 5^th was a momentous day for snow-seekers like me. It snowed. Big, fat flakes of snow. And when the snow fell down, it wasn't hard as ice. It was soft, flimsy like candyfloss. Everyone was out: making snowmen and throwing snowballs.

And the next morning, I saw my dream. A white blanket of soft snow right outside my window.

The snow experience in Cardiff has been an immense delight for me so far.

Supriya is an international student from Delhi, India
She is studying MA International Public Relations

You can read her first blog post here.

[News] US Fulbright scholars visit Cardiff University

2010-01-19T15:43:00.004Z

Last week the University welcomed forty of the US' most prestigious scholars as part of the Fulbright Forum.

The Forum is an annual cultural immersion programme for American Fulbright Scholars currently studying, researching and lecturing in the UK.

As part of the event the students were immersed in the research of some of the University's most prestigious academics - including that of University president and Nobel Prize winner Professor Sir Martin Evans.

The Scholars also visited Cardiff Castle, the Wales Millennium Centre and the seat of Welsh Government - the National Assembly for Wales.

They finished their visit with a traditional Welsh 'Twmpath' - a folk dance with a backing band.

Read more about their visit on the University's website:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/news/articles/leading-us-scholars-visit-cardiff.html

To find out more about the Fulbright scheme visit the Fulbright website: http://www.fulbright.co.uk/

Stuart

[Student View] A current international student blogs for us

2010-01-15T09:17:00.005Z

If you're thinking about studying in the UK you're probably excited to know what it will be like when you arrive.

Therefore we thought you would find it interesting to hear an international student's story about studying at Cardiff University.

She introduces herself below. Expect more posts over the coming weeks.

Stuart

Hi there,

I am Supriya, one of the students at Cardiff University. I am pursuing my Masters’ degree here in International Public Relations.

I come from Delhi, India – the land where both cows and cricket are worshipped equally. It is my first time ever in a UK University, and I am very glad I chose Cardiff! It’s not even been six months here, and this place already feels like home. The Welsh are truly friendly.

Living alone in a different country can be a difficult experience for some. But jitters aside, there is a lot to see and soak in. Cardiff is a pot-boiler of cultures.

I will blog down my experiences as a student of the University and as a new tenant of the city. Feel free to comment and talk about your experiences too!

Supriya

[Video] Get involved in student media at Cardiff University

2010-01-13T09:51:00.012Z

If you are interested in getting some experience in media, journalism, writing, web, TV or radio while you're at University - student media is a great way of gaining some real-life exposure.

In this video Ayushman interviews current students about media at Cardiff - including our award-winning newspaper, magazine and radio station.

Ayushman Jamwal is a third year journalism student here at Cardiff University. He has made several videos that describe his experiences at Cardiff University.

If you want to see more videos from Ayushman, they are all available on our YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/cardiffinternational

You can also find out more information about student media on the Students' Union's website:
http://www.cardiffstudents.com/activities/media

Stuart

[Info] Cardiff visiting Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and UAE

2010-01-11T13:57:00.009Z

If you are interested in studying at Cardiff, or have an offer for a course, you should meet Cardiff University this January in the Middle East.

Rhys Evans, Senior International Officer (pictured last year in Saudi Arabia), will be visiting Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and UAE to meet students, give more information about Cardiff and provide advice about making an application.

Dates, times and venues below.

Bahrain
Thursday 14th January (10:30 - 13:00, 16:00 - 21:00)
Venue: Shearaton Bahrain Hotel, Manama.

Kuwait
Wednesday 20th & Thursday 21st January (17:00 - 21:00 both days)
Venue: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Kuwait City.

Saudi Arabia
Tuesday 26th - Thursday 28th January (10:00 - 13:00, 16:30 - 21:00)
Friday 29th January (16:30 - 21:00)
Venue: Riyadh International Exhibition Centre, Riyadh.

UAE - Abu Dhabi
Saturday 16th January (17:00 - 21:00)
Venue: Abu Dhabi Men's College, Abu Dhabi.

UAE - Dubai
Sunday 17th January & Monday 18th January (17:00 - 21:00)
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai.

Read this post in Arabic.

Stuart

[Advice] Getting help with your application

2010-01-08T16:11:00.004Z

2010 is here and you may be starting to think about making an application, or getting your application documents in order.

For most courses there is still lots of time to apply for September 2010 but if you are thinking about applying, you may like to get some advice.

Cardiff University has a trusted network of advisors worldwide. They provide free advice and will also submit your application for you.

They have years of experience of helping students come to Cardiff and are especially useful if you want to talk to someone in your own country or language. They also arrange appointments with Cardiff University representatives when they visit overseas and will help you with all the necessary arrangements prior to your arriving at the University.

A list of all our educational advisors is available on the International Office website:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/inter/study/howtoapply/educationaladvisors/index.html

Of course if you should need any help with your application, or just want to ask a question, you can also email us: international@cardiff.ac.uk or ask us a question on one of our social networking sites: Facebook, Orkut or Friendster.

Stuart

[Fun] The International Office builds a snowman!

2010-01-06T14:45:00.004Z

It snowed in Cardiff last night so the International Office built a snowman today! Building a snowman is a traditional activity in the UK.

It doesn't snow very often in Cardiff but recently we have had some wintry weather. It's exciting and lots of fun for international students. Many of our students have never seen snow before so it's a great experience for them.

Are you a current student? Do you have any pictures of the snow in Cardiff? We would love to see them, e-mail: international@cardiff.ac.uk with your photos or post a link in the comments section.

Stuart

[Info] Cardiff Business School's Synergy magazine

2010-01-05T13:34:00.003Z

If you are interested in a course at Cardiff Business School you will probably want to read the latest news in Synergy.

Synergy is CBS' regular magazine which highlights the world-leading work being undertaken by academic staff, and other activities in the School. It showcases the global reach of CBS with interviews from alumni and current students from all over the world.

For example: in the latest issue there is an interview with Nawaf Marafi, an MBA graduate who is Vice President, Oil and Gas, at the Kuwait Financial Centre (Markaz).

Back issues of Synergy, including the most recent issue 9, are available as .pdf on the Business School's website: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/carbs/news_events/synergy.html

Stuart

[Info] University now back open

2010-01-04T16:43:00.003Z

Just a quick note to let you know that Cardiff University is back open after the seasonal break.

We'll be working on the backlog of correspondence - so if you have contacted us over the holidays then we'll get to you as soon as we can.

If you have been storing up your questions you can drop us an e-mail: international@cardiff.ac.uk or contact us through various social network sites. Have a look at this post for links.

Stuart

[Info] University closure (23rd December - 4th January)

2009-12-22T15:44:00.008Z

The University closes on the 23rd December (tomorrow) and re-opens on Monday 4th January for the annual seasonal vacation.

Every year, during this period, the staff at the University have some vacation time to spend with their families.

If you have a question, The International Office will be maintaining a light service through Facebook and Orkut. We will reply as soon as we can.

If you also want to get into the holiday spirit - it's not too late to send one of the University's seasonal e-cards.

Have a great break everybody and best wishes for 2010!

Stuart

[Info] Cardiff's 'Campus Horizons' plans for a new campus and more

2009-12-21T15:58:00.047Z

As a prospective student of Cardiff I thought you would like to see some of Cardiff University's building plans for the future.

I'm sure you will want to know you are studying in a forward-thinking university that is committed to providing a top educational environment.

During a time when most UK universities are scaling back their building plans, Cardiff University is pushing ahead with its ambitious project to enhance the University's environment. This includes a new campus next to the current Cathays campus (to be called the Maindy Park campus).

The new campus will provide facilities for inter-disciplinary research activity, green space for the general public and have a focus on sustainability. These plans are backed up by the University's current investment in the information technology infrastructure.

There is more information and slideshows on the newly launched Campus Horizons website.

Stuart

[Video] Alumnus from MA International Journalism

2009-12-20T09:00:00.025Z

Here's an interesting video of Piyush Roy, an alumnus from Mumbai, India.

He graduated from the MA International Journalism programme in the School of Journalism, Media and Cultural Studies and worked for several major newspapers and magazines in India. He talks about some of his experiences during and after studying at Cardiff.

Some related links:

More information on the MA International Journalism: http://www.cf.ac.uk/jomec/degreeprogrammes/pgmasters/mainternationaljournalism/index.html
The School of Journalism, Media and Cultural Studies: www.cardiff.ac.uk/jomec
More videos on the Youtube Channel: www.youtube.com/cardiffinternational
Videos on Youku: u.youku.com/cardiffio

Stuart

[Video] International students go ice-skating

2009-12-18T11:26:00.006Z

We've been working on lots of videos this week. The latest is below.

International students from the International Foundation Programme went ice-skating at Cardiff's Winter Wonderland last week and took their video cameras along.

The Winter Wonderland runs every year from November to January and features an ice-skating rink, a big wheel (with amazing views of Cardiff) and fairground rides and stalls.

The rink is infront of City Hall and next to Cardiff University's Cathays campus. It is a beautiful setting for an ice-skate especially on crisp clear Winter nights.

You can also see more photos on the Winter Wonderland website: www.cardiffswinterwonderland.com

Related links:

International Foundation Programme: www.cardiff.ac.uk/ifp
Cardiff's Winter Wonderland: www.cardiffswinterwonderland.com

Stuart

[Video] Cardiff and CU students from 1926

2009-12-17T11:38:00.003Z

We discovered this fascinating video today on Youtube. It features a section of one of Cardiff's main shopping streets as it was in 1926.

This is approximately the same view today - if you spin it round you can see Cardiff Castle on your left. There are no trams and the street infront is now pedestrianised.

In the second part of the film you can see some Cardiff University students celebrating ' Rag' week. This is a week when students dress up and put on activities to raise money for charity. It still happens today and last year Cardiff students raised over £23,000.

Stuart

[Video] LLB Law scholarship winner

2009-12-17T11:01:00.007Z

If you're thinking about studying an LLB you'll probably be interested in the video below.

The video features a Canadian student, Zeher Chadi, who has so far accumulated £8,000 in scholarships (including last year's top £5,000 prize for being the highest achieving student).

In fact, last year, the School of Law gave out a massive £33,000 in international scholarships to 21 LLB students for outstanding academic performance. You can see all the winners and find out more here: http://www.law.cf.ac.uk/alumni/newsletter/2009/sept/sept4.html

Want to see more videos?

Stuart

[Advice] Improving your job prospects at university

2009-12-16T12:04:00.006Z

Most students come to study in the UK because it will help improve their job prospects. Even if you have not chosen a career, you will want to know you are being prepared for work and that after your degree you will have opportunities and options.

I thought it would be useful therefore to give you a few general recommendations about how you can improve your job prospects while you’re at university.

1. Choose a top university with a worldwide reputation.
Studying at a top university will give your degree extra recognition from employers. It’s good to check with people already in the industry - they might be able to give you advice on the good schools for their area. You can see Cardiff’s high rankings and worldwide impact on the Research website: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/rae/results/

2. Study hard.
It may seem obvious but applying yourself and making the most of opportunities will give you an extra-edge over other candidates. Extra-curricular activities like guest lectures, field trips and additional seminars will broaden your knowledge and provide networking opportunities.

3. Maximise your potential.
In the work-place it is important that you can be creative and apply your knowledge effectively. Cardiff offers ‘Student Enterprise’ – a free programme designed to give you the opportunity to develop and practise entrepreneurial and business skills: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/enterprise

4. Get advice and meet employers.
Job-hunting can be tricky and even seasoned professionals need some advice. Most universities offer careers advice. Cardiff’s Careers Service has a specialist international adviser who can offer assistance on choosing a career, interview techniques and improving your CV/ résumé. At Cardiff we also have a regular programme of events where potential employers come to campus and meet students.

5. Enhance your résumé.
Employers don’t want robots. They want interesting people who are driven and able to work in teams. Your employment prospects are enhanced if you can demonstrate your talents outside of academia. You can, for example, get involved with a student society or join the Student Volunteering Unit. You can find out more about student societies on the Students' Union website: http://www.cardiffstudents.com/activities/societies

6. Get experienced.
Work experience is a great way to show you can apply your studies. You can get work experience by taking a part-time job, or opting for an undergraduate degree with a year in industry. The Careers Service also runs some ‘taster’ sessions and these are very popular.

7. Network and build lifelong friendships.
Cardiff University has 27,000 students, more than 3,000 from outside the EU and more than 5,500 staff. Professors and other staff will offer you advice and direction. Other students, both from your own country and other countries, can also provide valuable insights.

Do you have other ideas? Any good tips you can pass on to other students? Comment below.

Stuart

Welcome to the International Office blog

2009-12-15T11:53:00.024Z

Hello,

My name is Stuart and I work in the International Office at Cardiff University. The International Office helps international students who are thinking of, or planning to study at, Cardiff.

Why have we started this blog?

We know that you will have many questions about studying in the UK. Obviously you can use the website to find out information but sometimes it is nice to hear from people who are working at the University. We have years of experience of welcoming students to Cardiff and have seen many successful graduates.

Our aim is to provide you with some insight and hopefully answer some of those questions you have about the process of coming to Cardiff. We want to give you a personal view about living and studying here.

How can you help?

As this blog is for you, we’re interested to know what subjects you would most like to read? If you have an idea – please comment below. In fact please comment on any of our posts. It would be great to get your feedback and we love hearing from you.

Remember if you have any questions about admissions you can e-mail us international@cardiff.ac.uk call us via Skype (user: cardiffinternational) or connect with us through any of these websites:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/cardiffinternational
• Orkut: http://www.orkut.com/Main#Profile?uid=17979784092837957659
• Friendster: www.friendster.com/cardiffinternational
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/cardiffio
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/cardiffinternational
• Youku: u.youku.com/cardiffio

Hope to hear from you soon!

Stuart