Isabella Vidal

Isabella Vidal,
Management BSc

"I wanted to study business because my mom was a business major and I’ve always thought her work looked interesting. Doing the foundation year confirmed to me that business and management were for me."

Why did you choose Kent?

‘I’ve always wanted to study abroad; I just thought it would be a good experience and give me the chance to grow. My sister had studied in the UK and enjoyed it, so I decided to come here as well.’

Tell us a bit about your course.

'I wanted to study business because my mom was a business major and I’ve always thought her work looked interesting. Doing the foundation year confirmed to me that business and management were for me.’

‘I think in second year, there’s a lot to think about; as well as your studies, you might be looking for internships and you do feel more pressure. It’s hard to explain, it just feels different to first year. The lecturers are on hand though to support you, and if you email them, they’re quick to respond.’

‘We do group projects, it’s good to get experience of working in a team and to learn how to work with different types of people, good preparation for working life.’

Where are the best places to study?

‘I mostly use the library to study; you’ll find me in the silent spaces at the top of the library, I really need to lock in because I get easily distracted. So, I just get a coffee and go up there. I feel like I’ve lived in the library over the last few weeks!’

What has been your favourite module so far?

‘My favourite module so far was the first-year module Business Analysis in Practice because I really enjoyed using Excel – I know that sounds crazy! But it’s something you can use in all your modules and throughout your career. I use it for everything now, it keeps you on track!’

‘In the second year, I took a module on consumer behaviour; it was so interesting to see how people make their choices. The classes were fun too, they used everyday examples, which made you think about your own choices and why you made them.'

How do you learn at Kent?

‘I come from Peru and I think the learning style here is quite different. Here, there isn’t always somebody telling you what to do, you’re an independent learner. It’s a learning curve, but managing your time isn’t just important at uni, it will be essential after you graduate too.’

What about the location?

‘I love Canterbury, my friends and I go on runs around the city which is fun. It’s a really nice place to live. One of my favourite places to eat is Bangkok House, which has great Thai food, there are also lots of nice pubs and when the sun is out, we just enjoy sitting outside. I like going the cinema, there’s always something to do.’

Have you used the Careers and Employability Service? 

‘I’ve found the Careers Service very helpful; I’ve had good advice on my CV and writing cover letters, which makes applying for jobs a much speedier process!’

‘Through the Careers and Employability Service, I applied for the Student Impact Project and worked with Canterbury Brewers and Distillers. It was an incredible and enriching experience, and I’d love to take part in the programme again next year if the opportunity arises.’

What are your plans for the future?

‘My future plans aren’t set in stone; I may stay in Europe or return to Peru. I think a degree in management is broad, so gives you lots of options, which I like.’

What's the best thing about Kent?

‘I’d say the best thing about Kent is the people because you have people from everywhere and you learn a lot about their cultures by spending time with them. Also, with London being so close you can go there whenever you want to, which is great.’

Any advice for new students?

‘My advice is, join societies, I’ve made a lot of friends through societies. Also, speak to people in your classes, don’t be scared to speak up and ask questions. Attend your lectures and seminars.’

‘I’d definitely say plan your meals, I plan for a week ahead and then go shopping based on that list – don’t go food shopping when you’re hungry! Also, the student bus ticket is very useful.’

Describe Kent in three words

International; community; opportunity.