Mook
Mou

Tell us about yourself...

My name is Mook Mou, I'm from China and I study MA TESOL.

What made you choose to study in the UK and at NTU? 

I've always been interested in English language learning, and would like to understand more about British culture, people and places through language. Therefore, studying in the UK has become my goal since secondary school. The professional teaching and research support, safe and convenience living facilities, excellent location in the city as well as in the country, and the inclusive and collaborative learning environment made me certain that NTU is the right place for me.

What was your first impression of NTU and Nottingham?

Nottingham presented me with a very friendly and safe environment, which allowed me to live comfortably and conveniently, and most importantly, be able to focus on my study. NTU has been very welcoming to me, all the pre-arrival newsletters made me feel very excited to join. Once I enrolled, lots of personalised workshops helped me to get to know the city and the university better, to receive various academic support, to meet and make new friends.

What do you enjoy most about your course and studying at NTU?

The level of support I received during my stay at NTU was really valuable to me. All of our classes are well planned and very engaging, we also have additional academic support available, to make sure we receive targeted tutorial if needed. Even though many of us were not confident in teaching, with the support, encouragement and help received from tutors and peers, we gained lots of practical skills in classroom teaching, and most importantly, the confidence in becoming a teacher.

Tell us about the facilities you use for your course.

The library provides abundant study spaces which allows me to work collaboratively with classmates, the study skills and statistics support provide timely support during my coursework. I also learned Japanese for an entire academic year benefiting from the free ULP course, where I improved my basic grammar skills and communication skills with small group practice.

Have you done any work experience or placements as part of your studies?

We have teaching practice sessions embedded in our course, where I taught learners from different backgrounds and ages and language levels. I thoroughly enjoyed it as it equipped me the essential teaching skills, most importantly, the confidence of classroom planning and teaching.

Have you joined any societies or clubs while at NTU? Do you go to the global lounge?

Global lounge is a perfect place to meet new people with similar interests. I often go there to participate in various workshops and activities. These fun and educational activities have also motivated me to learn more about global culture and languages.

Where do you usually go during your free time?

Nottingham feels like a second home to me, where lots of amenities are easily accessible. I can find the ingredients I need for cooking in Asian supermarkets, or even generic stores. Benefited from the city center location, I often go to shopping center, restaurants, bars and cinema. Sometimes I also go to parks such as Wollaton park and Arboretum, to enjoy the beautiful scenery with my friends.

What is your advice for new international students?

Come with an open mind, enjoy and embrace the interculture experience. Make the most of the opportunities to learn, experience and progress.

What’s next for you after NTU?

I would like to stay in Nottingham and look for opportunities to start my career.

How would you describe NTU in 3 words?

Inclusive, Ambitious, Empowering.