Hongyi Li

I’m Jane, from China, and I’m currently studying Conference Interpreting and Translation Studies at the University of Leeds. Before coming here, I studied at Sun Yat-sen University, where I developed a strong foundation in languages and intercultural communication. I had heard about the University of Leeds for quite some time, as it ranks among the top universities in the UK for its interpreting program. The reputation of the program was one of the main reasons I chose Leeds, as I believed it would help me further improve my professional skills and better prepare me for my future career. Additionally, I wanted to immerse myself in an environment where I could make new friends, build connections, and enrich my life by interacting with diverse cultures.

My experience at Leeds so far has been very fulfilling and colourful. Despite the demanding academic schedule, I make sure to participate in various activities, which add a lot of value to my university life. The facilities here are excellent, especially the library and the state-of-the-art resources for training in conference interpreting and translation. I am also deeply impressed by the university’s world-class student community, which offers countless opportunities. The university has provided me with the chance to explore a range of modules, including consecutive interpreting, simultaneous interpreting, retour interpreting specialized translation etc, all of which have greatly contributed to my growth as a professional.

The course itself is intense and highly professional, pushing me to improve my skills and prepare holistically for my future career. I’ve become a more confident public speaker, developed my teamwork abilities, and gained essential skills needed for work, study and life. Outside of my studies, I enjoy reading novels, listening to music, practising yoga, and going hiking, all of which help me unwind and stay balanced.

Living in Leeds has been an incredible experience. The city is wonderfully internationalized, offering a rich mix of cultures and the convenience of having all the facilities I need, including Chinese supermarkets and restaurants where I can find authentic foods. I thrive in this diverse environment, meeting people from all over the world and learning about different cultures. My accommodation in a private student hall is close to the city centre, and it takes me only about twenty minutes to walk to the Parkinson Building, which is very convenient. I’m fortunate to have super-friendly roommates, and I truly enjoy my living situation here.