I have an extensive background in Biomedical Science (also known as medical technology or clinical laboratory science), where I gained a lot of valuable hands-on experience in the laboratory prior to moving here. I did some part-time modelling alongside - which sparked my love for fashion, styling, and content creation. I really enjoy sharing my creativity on TikTok, where I post about student life, travel, and personal style.

A fun fact about me: I once collaborated on a content with YouTube sensation Niko Omilana - it was such a fun and unexpected experience!

Coming to the UK was honestly such a childhood dream come true. I grew up fascinated by Harry Potter, Narnia, and the Royal Family, and everything about British culture just captured my imagination. The first time I visited, I didn't want to leave - I knew I had to come back here.

During my time at Leeds Beckett, I found my home in the Global Village - a welcoming and diverse community that celebrates cultures from all over the world. It's where I met so many amazing people who made Leeds feel like family. Eventually, I became a Global Ambassador, helping international students settle in and adjust to life in the UK because I knew exactly how it felt to be in their position.

Now, I've come full circle and work as a Global Engagement Officer, continuing the same mission of creating connections, supporting students, and helping them make the most of their university experience.

I genuinely love living in Leeds - it's friendly, lively, and full of character. There’s always something happening, whether it's live music, cute cafés, or hidden spots to explore. Still, I love hopping on the train to London whenever I can for little adventures (and a bit of content creation, of course!). And one of my absolute favourites? Jollibee - it's the closest taste of home, and my go-to comfort meal whenever I'm missing Filipino food!

What are the five best things about studying in Leeds?

1. It's not financially painful! Compared to other major UK cities, Leeds is relatively affordable - from rent and groceries to nights out. You can live comfortably without constantly worrying about expenses, and student discounts are everywhere. It really helps you enjoy your student life while still saving a bit for travel and adventures.
2. The people are lovely (and it's not too crowded!). Yorkshire people are known for being friendly, approachable, and down-to-earth. Leeds has that warm, community feel that makes you feel right at home. It's also much calmer compared to London or other southern cities - still lively, but not overwhelmingly busy. You can actually breathe up here!
3. Supportive lecturers and advanced facilities. When I was doing my master's in Biomedical Science, I initially found it challenging to adjust to the UK education system. The laboratory equipment here was far more advanced than what I'd used back home in the Philippines, so there was a bit of a learning curve. But my lecturers and course tutors were amazing - always patient, supportive, and ready to guide me whenever I needed help.
4. It's a lively, student-centred city. Leeds has such a fun, youthful vibe! There are students everywhere, and you'll never run out of people to meet. Whether it's bonding with classmates over a few pints, attending a university event, or exploring a new café, there's always something happening. It's the perfect mix of social life and study life.
5. There's always something new to explore. I didn't realise this at first, but there's so much to see and do in and around Leeds! If you ever feel like getting out of the city, there are plenty of easy day trips - places like York, Whitby, Knaresborough and Harrogate are full of charm and character. Plus, Leeds has great transport links, so travelling to London, Manchester, or Edinburgh is super convenient. Every weekend can be a new adventure if you want it to be!

Have you been involved in any social activities?

I was a Global Ambassador and an active member of the Global Village community.

The very first Global Village event I took part in was the Global Village trip to York. I had just arrived in the UK then, and I really wanted to explore more of the country - and, of course, meet new people. Everyone else on that trip was also a new international student, so it was such a great way to bond with others who were going through the same experience as me.

That York trip was the start of it all. After that, I became much more involved in the Global Village, attending all sorts of events like Cultural Exchange sessions and community gatherings. Each one helped me connect with people from different countries and cultures - and before I knew it, I had made so many amazing friends!

Eventually, I became a Global Ambassador, where I had the chance to support new students and help them feel at home - just like others did for me when I first arrived. It’s been such a rewarding experience being part of this vibrant, supportive community.

What are your plans for the future?

I would love to build a career in marketing. My current role as a Global Engagement Officer has been such a great stepping stone - it's allowed me to develop valuable skills in communication, event management, and social media marketing, all of which are essential for a future in the marketing field.

Before stepping into this role, I already had experience in content creation and marketing, but I never realised how much I would enjoy it - and how naturally it would all come together. This job has helped me strengthen those skills even more, and I'm hopeful that it will open doors to exciting marketing opportunities ahead.

That said, a part of me will always love laboratory science, and I do see myself returning to that field at some point. However, after working in such a sociable, people-focused environment, it might be quite an adjustment to go back to the quiet, structured setting of the lab! For now, I'm really enjoying where I am - learning, growing, and connecting with people from all over the world.

What advice would you give to someone from your country?

For my fellow Filipino students, I know how big of a change it can be moving to the UK - especially coming from the warmth (both the weather and the people!) of the Philippines. We Filipinos are very family-oriented, so being away from our loved ones can be tough, particularly during the holidays. Christmas, Noche Buena, and New Year just hit differently when you're far from home - but it's going to be okay!

The best thing you can do is surround yourself with people and build your own support system here. Join communities like Global Village or the Students' Union, where you can meet friends who'll eventually feel like family. It really helps you not feel alone, especially during those quiet moments when you miss home.

On the practical side - bring Berocca, paracetamol, Bioflu, and vitamin C/iron supplements! The UK weather is nothing like what we're used to, so your immune system will definitely need a little boost. And while you're packing, don't forget to sneak in your favourite Filipino snacks - especially Pancit Canton! It can be quite a struggle to find Filipino comfort food here, so having a stash will definitely save you on those homesick days.

And of course - when the craving really hits, there's always Jollibee in Leeds! Grab your Chickenjoy and spaghetti combo, and you'll instantly feel like you're back home, even just for a moment.