It was important for me to continue my higher education in a programme that would enable me to self-direct my studies while benefiting from the guidance of an experienced cohort of teachers. On the university’s website, the curriculum mentions in detail that the programme is structured to revolve around students’ preoccupation, and I found that important in my decision-making process.
One of my end goals was to understand and gain the fundamental skills that a doctoral researcher typically possesses. When I explained this to my programme teachers, they supported my goal. Thus, they helped me obtain and hone the skills expected from a doctoral researcher by giving me constructive feedback, introducing multiple reading materials, and one-on-one sessions.
My final project, a 15k-word dissertation, was concerned about the lack of integrity in video game studies’ terminology; more specifically, I used performance studies' recent findings to narrow down the term ‘interactivity’ in video game studies. As a theatre student and a serious gamer, I found many overlapping areas in both fields, and I believe we can use one to construct and unfold new theories in another.
While finishing my master’s, I applied for a PhD opportunity at Â鶹ֱ²¥ University. Shortly after, I was awarded a placement and studentship to pursue a PhD in Creative Arts, which I gladly accepted.
I cannot imagine that I would have achieved a PhD opportunity at this university without the help of the MA Theatre and Storytelling cohort. They encouraged me while being helpful and meticulous with their feedback.
I come from a highly demanding educational system, so I could adjust to the level of education here pretty quickly. Regarding homesickness and being comfortable in my course, I cannot stress enough how cordial the programme leader and module leaders were towards me and how they made sure I adjusted to the new situation.
My advice to future international students is do not be afraid to ask questions or ask for support; teachers are more than willing to help.