Why I chose to study a Master's Degree as an international student at LBU

A World-Class Film School with Real-World Focus

The Vietnamese film industry, where I come from, is still in its early stages of development, with many industry restrictions and a small pool of bold, visionary filmmakers. The majority of audiences in Vietnam primarily watch films for entertainment, while my dream is to create something more arthouse, meaningful, and cinematic. To achieve this, I knew I needed to seek proper training elsewhere.

To be honest, the UK wasn’t my first choice—after all, Hollywood resides in the US, making it the ultimate dream destination for many aspiring filmmakers. However, I soon realised that the UK became the best option for me.

For someone aspiring to break into screenwriting without any formal training, I needed a school with an industry-oriented curriculum and a trusted reputation in the field. That’s when Leeds Beckett entered the chat.

Rather than offering purely theoretical lectures, Leeds Beckett’s program focuses on practical, hands-on learning, with guidance from industry professionals. The instructors are seasoned experts who have worked on major productions, which meant I would be learning directly from people with real industry experience.

Another major draw was the school’s strong connections to the film and television industry. Through partnerships, internships, and networking opportunities, Leeds Beckett offers students a chance to build a portfolio and make meaningful connections before entering the job market.

Leeds: The Birthplace of Film

Before deciding to come to Leeds, I had no idea that the city was considered the birthplace of film. Leeds has a rich film heritage and a thriving independent cinema scene, from the Hyde Park Picture House to the Leeds International Film Festival. It felt like the perfect place for an international film student to start her dream.

Additionally, Leeds is located in a convenient spot, making it easy to travel around the UK and explore more of the culture—especially the theatre and literature scene, which I am madly in love with.

When I’m not traveling, Leeds offers a diverse arts, cultural, and food scene that satisfies both my curiosity and creativity. More importantly, it also comforts the homesick side of me whenever it emerges. The city is home to a large population of international students, which makes it easier to feel at home and connect with people from different backgrounds. Plus, Leeds is known for being more affordable than other major UK cities, making it a practical and enjoyable place to live while studying.

A Chance to Grow Personally and Professionally

Most people in their late 20s are often looking to settle down, not start over in a foreign country. But I felt like I had been in my comfort zone for too long, and moving abroad was the challenge I needed.

Beyond academics, studying abroad represented an opportunity for personal growth. Moving to a new country, navigating a different culture, and building a new support network from scratch are all challenges that push you out of your comfort zone.

I saw this as a chance to broaden my perspective, become more adaptable, and develop greater independence—all while pursuing my passion and chasing my dream.

Why Studying a Master’s Degree as an International Student Was the Right Choice

From its renowned film school and practical learning approach to its vibrant student life and the personal challenge of moving abroad, studying at Leeds Beckett has been a breath of fresh air.

It has not only given me the tools to build my skills and industry connections but has also allowed me to grow as a person. Studying a master’s degree abroad is more than just education—it is an experience that shapes you. And for me,