Satwik Shivoham

Satwik comes from India and is in his third year of a Journalism and Politics degree. After he graduates he plans to either do a master's or take a break to get some work experience.

Student name: Satwik Shivohan
Course title: BA Journalism, Communications and Politics
Country: India
Year of graduation: 2020

Why did you choose Cardiff University?

I chose Cardiff because it offers everything a student could possibly ask for - whether it's an exemplary degree programme, unstinted staff support or an opportunity to pursue your other interests, Cardiff has it all!

Tell us about your course. How is it different to classes back home?

My course is an undergraduate Joint Honours degree programme in Journalism, Communications and Politics. I kept telling my parents how I would not have made a fine journalist if I would have stayed back home, owing to the immense work the faculty puts into designing the courses. The programme, even though a challenging one, is always made interesting in the seminars where actual political deliberations are taking place every week to make us students enjoy what we are being taught!

What are you enjoying the most about studying at Cardiff University?

The fact that this university always has something new to offer. One can’t simply experience every event, workshop, society or even a fair for the simple reason that there are so many. There is something for everybody - whether you are a gymnast or a pianist or a skydiver! Cardiff offers me an environment in which I’m always thriving and pursuing the things that I love.

What is the best thing about living in Cardiff?

I feel that the quality of life it offers to students is unparalleled. Not only is it one of the cheapest cities to live in, it is also one of the greenest, the most commuter-friendly and the liveliest cities in the UK. You can never really get bored of the city and the various attractions it has to offer, even though it is relatively much smaller than my hometown of New Delhi. Everything is at a walking distance; the people are really welcoming, and the costs of living are very low. What more would a student need?

Are you a member of any clubs and/or societies? What’s it like to be part of a society?

I am keen on becoming the great athlete I’ve always only dreamed of becoming, and the University is offering me just the opportunity I needed. It has excellent sports societies and world-class gyms, where the Welsh rugby team itself trains occasionally! Even if you aren’t into sports, there are about 300 other societies you can choose from. Like I said, something for everyone.

Being in a society is an amazing experience because you get to hang around like-minded people with similar interests and put your interests and hobbies to use. All the societies regularly organise meetings, outings and events to keep you on your toes and have fun at the same time.

What would be your advice for prospective students thinking about coming to Cardiff?

My only advice would be to chill out, board the flight and come to Cardiff without any second thoughts. This place makes you feel like home even before you realise it.

What are your future plans?

I wish to become a great journalist, much like my parents, and put all the knowledge and experience I gathered here to use. I had decided I’d work after my undergrad programme, but I wish to stay here for a fourth year and study all the Journalism I possibly could!