Profile: Farooq Slam
Before arriving at Reading, I was offered a place of study in the same course by a number of other universities in the UK, but I decided to join Reading because it has gained worldwide reputation for its quality education. What I have experienced since I have joined this institute, I am confident to say that I made right decision to study right course at right place. Studying at the University of Reading is a unique and wonderful opportunity for overseas students because the highly qualified teaching staff work upon the basis of developing, educating and preparing students for professional life.
We are about the group of thirty students studying for MSc Food Technology-Quality Assurance. They are from different parts of world with diverse ability and cultural background but have been well assisted by tutorials, key skills enhancement and supported learning. Teaching methods are different from those used in my country. Therefore these methods helped me to become more independent and creative rather than to rely on others work. The opportunity to discuss and develop ideas with tutors and fellow students has been very valuable. It has also been good to listen to the experiences of others and learn from them. As well as developing academically, it has developed my confidence and understanding and made me a more rounded individual than before.
University of Reading is also active in extra-curricular activities. There are number of societies and support clubs one can join upon their arrival. I am representing students of FT/QA in 'Student-Staff Consultative Committee' and this gave me an opportunity to discuss different academic issues with members of staff on student behalf. I have also joined number of others societies that gave me an opportunity to meet different people to learn from them.
University of Reading also provides an opportunity to enjoy the mixture of culture and nationalities. Student came from various countries in the world and I found myself learning new things everyday from my course mates.
One of the interesting things about 'Reading town' is that there is a big Asian community particularly Pakistani community. One can easily adjust in this environment and will not feel homesickness. UK is the country where we have freedom of speech, freedom of culture and religious freedom. Reading is providing this opportunity.
I would recommend the University of Reading to any student from my country (Pakistan) or elsewhere in the world who want to establish a career in food bioscience or any other subject of their interest; on the basis of its teaching quality.
