One thing about being in a pharmacy course, especially in the University of Nottingham, is that time flies. 24 hours never seemed enough, well, if you want to get some proper rest and a life beyond studies. I am now in my third year of studies so I am now in the UK. Time flies even faster here. Sun sets at 4 pm. Every day after class, the skies are already dark. But, to those who are coming over next year, you’ll get used to it soon enough. The hard part when transitioning over is not finding accommodation, but finding the correct one and large enough to fit enough people. Also, when you are over here, you’d tend to save money cause of the conversion rate. However, I’d say don’t save so much especially during the first few weeks. Get quality items (which will cost more sometimes). If not, you’ll regret it as some cheap items here in UK really are cheap – they breakdown faster than you can imagine.
Thinking back to year 1 and 2, it was somehow a miracle, I think, that I can get through all those coursework, lab reports and exams. If someone were to ask me how did I study and manage PharmNotts at the same time, I seriously don’t know how to answer. But, I guess the key is to take things one step at a time. Every day, there will always be a challenge to be faced. I had the chance to meet people from my class that were and are totally awesome. It is crucial, I think, that people from the same class especially for us who twin to the UK as they will be your support and help in the UK. We depend on each other to get the best out of our time here in the UK. You will seriously (well, I did) treasure your friends more. One thing I really missed is the lecturers in UNMC. Lecturers in UNMC are like so helpful and they become like friends. The class size of UK is like literally mind blowing when I first attended the lecture. It is possible to jam outside the lecture theatre but as all things, after a while, it becomes a normal thing. Due to the size, there won’t be much chance of interacting with the lecturers – well, unless if you have questions to ask at the end.
I would like to end this testimonial with a piece of advice to the juniors (now I feel so old), professional skills lectures are seriously important. You’ll be at a great advantage when you are in year 3.
Hope everyone have fun in Malaysia with all the amazing events coming up like Viva La Vida. And to those in the UK, we can do this!
P.S. To my two lovely buddies, you know who you are, I’ll see you soon in the UK! :)
Signing off,
Bruce Wong
