Tell us a bit about yourself and what you’ve been doing since you graduated

I’m currently working an intern job in the China Economic Information Service (CEIS) in Shanghai. My job includes the whole process of making advertising videos for different companies. We also hold lots of industry meetings and record the whole process with other camera teams.

The China Economic Information Service also needs writing skills to make scripts for the videos. I didn’t specialise in scriptwriting at Leeds Beckett, but I didn’t forget to improve my writing skills whilst studying. I continued to read Chinese books to expand my knowledge and widen the depth of my thought.

All these skills have given me more capital in a competitive industry, which always makes me grateful! 

Why did you choose to study at Leeds Beckett?

I joined the university’s open day before accepting the offer officially. As a filmmaking student, I experienced the shooting studio with the tutor’s company. He showed me the variety of camera and lighting equipment and introduced me to the modules in more detail.

What was your favourite thing about your time studying at Leeds Beckett?

Leeds itself is a lovely city. The local people are friendly and always give a warm welcome to international people. The living price is cheaper compared to other UK cities. As an international student, I was glad to see a lot of Asian restaurants and shops located in Leeds. I could buy all of my supplies easily, and it’s very handy to use online delivery. 

As part of my course, I also had the opportunity to go to Poland to join the Camerimage Film Festival every year. If you’re an international student, make sure to sort out your visa in advance for this. 

What are your future career plans? How will your Leeds Beckett degree help you achieve them?

I plan to find a job in China for now, in a TV program group or film crew. Since my specialism is cinematography, directing and editing, I am capable of using a lot of equipment and software. I didn’t learn all my skills at Leeds Beckett, but the university gave me the tools and ability to self-teach and learn new skills after graduation. 

What advice would you give to someone from your country thinking of studying in the UK?

My situation was unique. In my course, there were few Asian students, and I was the only Chinese student - so there were more chances to get to know international friends. Living in a more diverse cultural atmosphere is not a bad thing, because you can expand your perspective and attitude.

I travelled to other cities to travel a lot: to Edinburgh, London, the Isle of Skye and Wales. I even used the summer vacation and Christmas time to travel to other European countries. 

Try to make international friends; find some part-time jobs related to your course.

Studying abroad makes you grow up fast and gives you the confidence to do anything you want. The most important thing is to get out of your comfort zone, there is a whole beautiful world ahead of you! 

Is there anything else you want to add about your experience at Leeds Beckett?

One of my favourite memories was joining the Pride parade with other Leeds Beckett students. We held the rainbow flag together and walked the whole parade route through Leeds. Running freely under the rainbow will be a memory that I treasure for my whole life. That experience and meeting lots of LGBTQIA+ friends in the community gave me the courage and faith to be myself. Whoever you love, Leeds Beckett supports you. I’m glad to have learned that.