Alexandra Dechappe is an MSc Food Policy student.
Why did you choose City?
The MSc Food Policy is a unique course which examines the food sector from a comprehensive view. It includes economic, social, health, political and environmental perspectives.
The opportunity to meet and debate with other students from different international backgrounds was another attractive dimension advocated by the program.
What does a typical week at university look like for you?
My timetable is quite empty, as I only have two lectures which are three hours each, every Monday and Tuesday. However, the work required for each lecture is about three to four readings, sometimes exercises to submit or discussions to prepare.
Therefore, the following days are focused on preparing for the classes and the assignments. Then my weekends are dedicated to the French courses I teach.
Nevertheless, every week is unique as I always book some time to visit an exhibition or a museum with a friend or to plan work slots with other students. In addition, City offers some activities or events every week, and I take part in some of them.
What has been your favourite part of your course so far?
What I appreciate the most in my course is the combination of discussions and conceptualization from the lectures with the practical dimension of our assignments.
As a result, I have this impression of exploring a big broad picture of the food system while examining precise case-studies or data.
As part of our course, exploring these topics with a critical mind is also supported and encouraged. Our opinions or remarks are always welcomed, feeding numerous interesting group discussions.
What opportunities and experiences has City offered you so far?
City has a rich range of courses and activities that we can join besides our degree courses. For example, I have found the academic courses in English very helpful in improving my formal writing. Moreover, these courses are free and good quality.
How are you finding studying in London?
London is a fascinating city to live in. As a student, it is enjoyable to access such beautiful parks, magnificent free museums and cozy coffee shops.
The train connections with other lovely cities such as Bath, Cambridge or Oxford are smooth and allow us to travel easily.
However, it is the first time I am living under visa restrictions and London is an expensive city as well.
As a student, you have to be able to face higher prices for food and accommodation and still have enough money to be able to share a coffee with a friend.
This implies some budget management and sometimes some sacrifice. Even so, I still feel lucky to be able to live in this amazing city.
What advice would you give to someone considering a postgraduate degree?
A postgraduate degree is not a prerequisite to finding a job that suits you. If you want to continue your studies, find a degree that makes a difference regarding your background.
Find a degree where you can make the best of it, to be keen to sacrifice some of your spare time to give the best of yourself for a year.
Take it as a unique opportunity to specialize in your studies.