Russia, LLM in International Law
“My teachers are really lovely. Actually I would say they are our friends first of all, then they are our mentors. You can feel that they enjoy sharing their knowledge, their experience.”
Why did you choose to study in the UK?
It is a widely known fact that the UK provides some of the best education in the world, which was especially important for me because I am a lawyer. I did my first degree in Russia in Law and a British education in Law is highly valuable.
Why did you choose to study at Oxford Brookes?
I came to Oxford 2 years ago when I had work vocations and spent two weeks here for a English language course. It was then that I realised that I wanted to be a student, and if I could be a student again, I'd like to be a student here in Oxford, because I’ve found it is the best place to study. I explored the Brookes programmes and found that it was perfect for my future plans.
What have your teachers been like?
My teachers are really lovely. Actually I would say they are our friends first of all, then they are our mentors. You can feel that they enjoy sharing their knowledge, their experience. It's not a formal relationship, it's sometimes even informal. We can chat, we can text, email, and even call each other and ask some questions regarding lectures, assignments or some professional issues. It’s very, very good, I like it so much. I really appreciate their support, their help and their tips.
Did the staff here help support you when you were first settling in?
Yes, I have to say that the teaching staff and administrative staff are amazing over here. They are so helpful. Especially as administrative support was really, really important for me in the first few months, because I had so many concerns, so many questions and it was a really hard time for me. However, I gained a lot of administrative help and support tips.
Have you used any of our other support facilities?
I have been a Global Buddy on a programme organised by ISAT, and I have met new people and friends through this programme. I used the upgrade service during my first semester and they gave me some advice regarding my language and my whole education study process. The Student Union... I attended a fair created by them. I am not a member of any student society but I have gone to some law society events and have been in contact with people from the Russian speaking society.
Are you living in halls at the moment?
I live in the Clive Booth Postgraduate centre. It is my home and I like it so much. I live with 5 other people. All international students and we call ourselves a family as we live like a family. Yesterday one of my flatmates cooked dinner and welcomed me in the evening. Then the other two guys came back this morning and we drew them a picture to say ‘welcome back’.
What are your top tips for studying here?
My top tips... don't hesitate to ask any questions you have. Appreciate the time you have here in Oxford being a student and don't miss the chance to experience the best moments of your life. Enjoy!