Dana Harper

Home University: University of Alberta
Home University Degree Title: Environmental Economics and Policy

Why did you choose Sheffield?

They spoke English and the guidebook said Sheffield was the "greenest" city in the UK. Beautiful national park right next door.

Where did you live?

With a family in Greystones

Did you join any societies or clubs at Sheffield?

Conservation Volunteers

What did you do for fun/ at weekends?

Hiking in the Peak District, chilling with friends at the pub, doing day or weekend trips to other parts of the UK

How does the workload/classes/teaching styles vary to back at home?

The workload is much less than in Canada. It is not nearly as competitive and the atmosphere is more relaxed and friendly. They give you incredible amounts of time to study for your final exams. Most classes have just one paper and the final exam as the basis of your final mark. Some classes have tutorials in the UK which was new for me. I did a lot more presentations here as well.

Describe Sheffield in a short paragraph

The city has poured a lot of money into the downtown area and it shows. Very close proximity to the Peak District National Park which is a huge bonus. Lots of shopping and pubs. The people are friendly, although you generally have to make the initiative. The University campus is very spread-out so count on doing a lot more walking. Buses are expensive, but run quite often.

If you could give advice to a prospective student thinking of choosing Sheffield, what would you say?

Don´t expect to get as high grades as you would at home. Get out to the Peaks as often as possible – they are beautiful. Get out to the Peaks as often as possible – they are beautiful.

Could you give any advice or tips to a student preparing to come to Sheffield or tell them anything you wished you knew in advance.

Definitely do weekend trips or day trips to other parts of the UK. You are not expected to do as much schoolwork as you would at home so take advantage of the extra time. Get a youth rail pass!

Any other information or comment

The grading system takes a bit to get used to. I would suggest you talk to the professor for your classes when you arrive and get them to explain to you exactly how their system works. It will save you much heartache later on.