Andy Chen

Hello! My name is Andy (or Chih-Tao) Chen from Taiwan, currently pursuing a MSc International Marketing Management in the Leeds University Business School. I graduated from the Department of Pharmacy at Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science in Taiwan. Before pursuing my studies at the University of Leeds, I worked as a pharmacist in Taiwan for three years. After several years in the pharmaceutical field, I decided to change career paths and fulfill my dream of studying abroad, leading me to choose the University of Leeds for my academic journey. 

The University of Leeds is a top-ranked business school that holds international accreditations from AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, making it one of the world's leading business schools. It's a well-established red brick university in the UK and a member of the Russell Group. Additionally, the International Marketing Management program has received recognition, ranking 6th in the UK, 20th in Europe, and 24th out of 131 marketing programs worldwide in the QS World University Ranking 2023.

I selected the University of Leeds for several reasons. The university offers a wealth of educational resources, including a library which open 24/7 for students to study, and various pathways to connect with future employment, such as the career centre, which assists students in CV check and Joblink, which helps students find part-time job. My favourite place in the University of Leeds is the fitness centre called the edge. It features sufficient equipment, professional trainers, and various specialized areas like rock climbing, badminton courts, squash courts, and a swimming pool. For a student who enjoys sports, this facility is indispensable. Leeds is a safe and conveniently located city, with numerous exotic supermarkets and elegant cafes, providing a relaxed atmosphere for students to enjoy their daily lives. It's a perfect city for international students. 

Study hard, but don't forget to make friends.

As an international student, there are many things to do when arriving in a new country, and making friends is a necessary and indispensable part of it. The university offers many places to make friends. Global Café is a friendship circle that transcends nationality and gender. Here, you can meet people from various countries, and Global Café team also provides drinks and snacks. For new students, the Global Café is an essential hub for making friends.

The university also provides a wide range of activities. First, there are societies. Leeds University Union (LUU) has over 300 societies, whether you want to sweat it out or study together, there are clubs of various types that can help you meet friends who share your interests. Each club also hosts 'Give It a Go' events, just waiting for you to try. Secondly, LUU organizes various events. If you enjoy parties the school regularly hosts different types of parties, from arrival parties to headphone disco parties and other special-themed parties. If you enjoy exploring the city, the school also offers City Chase events where you can get to know the city while making friends – it's beneficial for everyone involved. Alternatively, you can participate in the Host UK program, which provides the opportunity to stay with a local family and gain a deeper understanding of local life. Thirdly, there's the school's friend-finding program, Buddy Scheme. Do you want to find a friend who has similar personalities and interests? The Buddy Scheme can help you find friends who share your characteristics, whether you're introverted or extroverted, enjoy outdoor activities, or prefer indoor discussions about movies. Another option is the Language Exchange program. As an international student, one of your biggest advantages is having your native language. The school offers a Language Exchange program where you can find language exchange partners. You can learn each other's languages and foster mutual growth. 

I currently reside in St Mark’s Residences, which is conveniently located very close to the Leeds University Business School. The journey from the residence to classes is just a short ten-minute walk. Living in the accommodation has its advantages, including the opportunity to get to know your flatmates and interact with students from different countries. The residence also provides package reception services, as well as access to a fitness centre and a common room for students to socialize and engage in activities. It's a highly recommended accommodation option. 

Welcome to the University of Leeds. Feel free to message me on Unibuddy or through email at Andy-link@leeds.ac.uk. Looking forward to hearing from you!