Leading the Leeds Way

Updated on: Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Kolkata: University of Leeds, South Asia Office, organised a pre-departure briefing on August 8 to let students know about the ways of life, the work climate and the requisite lifestyle at Leeds. Especially at a time when the impending threat of rejected visas is only one of the many apprehensions faced by the students, the briefing session acted as a cushion of hope yet a reality check for the attending students.

Pankaj Jain, director, University of Leeds, South Asia Office, helmed the session, giving the students tips and advice as to how to conduct their lifestyles while at Leeds. One of the main points brought up by him was the large numbers of rejected visas this year. He averred, “The students this year are in a dicey situation. However, this should be a reminder to only use the correct and advised routes and not any unfair means to obtain a visa.” He stated an example wherein an individual, whose bank account quoted an amount of around Rs 40,00,000, and despite all formalities having been done, was rejected a visa.

Throwing light on the possible challenges and difficulties faced by students en route to Leeds, he opined, “Students must make sure that they firstly divide their luggage into two bags and secondly keep a set of clothes and other set essentials with their hand baggage as some airlines have a notorious reputation for losing luggage. Also, if your luggage is lost, make to get the allowance that the airlines is supposed to pay you before you exit the airport.”

Shedding light on the possible challenges that students would have to face in the future, he stated, “Accommodation is always a big concern over there. There are a number of landlords that the university website recommends, whose services can be availed as they are trustworthy. However, only seal a deal after coming to Leeds s pictures of the rooms may not reflect reality.”

Speaking about the brand new lifestyle that the students would have to adapt to, Jain said, “Time management will be of the utmost importance as you will be juggling studies with a host of new activities like cleaning rooms, cooking food, doing one’s groceries and research and reference at the library.”

Signing off, he said, “Make friends and always ask seniors for help whenever you are stuck. Coupled with proper time management and diligence, the stay will surely be very fruitful.”

Leading the Leeds Way

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