Tanaya Yuwono

Hello! My name is Tanaya and I’m from Jakarta, Indonesia. I am currently a 2nd year student at the University of Leeds studying BA Sustainable Fashion. Before going to university, I completed the International Baccalaureate at Sekolah Cikal Amri Setu, with Higher Levels in Mathematics Analysis and Approaches, Physics, and Chemistry.

I discovered through my research that the University of Leeds has a range of diverse students from all around the world and provides a healthy balance between social life and education, with many facilities to assist in aspects such as career and mental health.

I first heard about the University of Leeds in high school. At that time, I had developed an interest in science and design, particularly in the application of sustainability in the fashion industry. I noticed that there was a growing industry of fashion brands in Indonesia that had implemented sustainability into their business models. I searched on the internet for university majors, when I came across Sustainable Fashion in the University of Leeds. Upon reading the overview and the curriculum, I became interested and wanted to know more about the university. I discovered through my research that the University of Leeds has a range of diverse students from all around the world and provides a healthy balance between social life and education, with many facilities to assist in aspects such as career and mental health. I especially liked how Leeds was mentioned as a student oriented city and that it would be easy to make friends in the university through their social programs, which further helped me decide to apply to the university.

When I first arrived in Leeds, I wanted to learn more about the university that I would spend the next few years in. I learned that the School of Design has a rich history with the Clothworkers Company in developing the British textile industry through researching and experimenting with textile innovations. The facilities in the school, such as fabric testing labs, fashion studios, and print rooms provide opportunities for me to explore how the design industry operates as a whole. I have also been able to increase my understanding on the industry by joining fashion forums and seminars conducted by industry experts. The peers that I have met in my course through shared lectures and seminars have also allowed me to better adjust to the university. Aside from the School of Design, my favourite place in the university would be the Leeds University Union. The Leeds University Union is a vibrant place that allows students to socialise and get support. They promote social activities for students to get involved in, including the 300+ different societies students can choose to join. In particular, I found the Indonesian Society (PPI Greater Leeds) very helpful in my first year as it allowed me to connect with fellow Indonesians and gain useful living tips.

Life in Leeds is like a daily adventure as there are always new things to explore in the city. I especially enjoy Kirkgate Market and Waterstones. Kirkgate market would often remind me of the traditional markets back home in Indonesia, giving me a sense of comfort as I did grocery shopping in my first year. As a bookworm, I love visiting Waterstones to discover newly published books, or to relax in their cafe with a nice cup of hot chocolate amidst the cold weather. Whenever I want to escape the busy city life, I would go to Roundhay Park to take a walk in their vast natural landscapes and see the wildlife. Leeds is a city with a lot to offer for various people with different interests, and has a way of making one feel at home.

Since my first year, I’ve been living in a private student accommodation. I’ve befriended other students from various faculties and schools in my accommodation through sharing communal spaces together. It’s always interesting getting to know people from different backgrounds and cultures, especially as Leeds is rich in student diversity. Overall, my experience in Leeds has been very positive. It may seem daunting at first, but with various opportunities and support from the university, I’ve been able to adjust well to living abroad on my own.

Get in touch through email tanaya-link@leeds.ac.uk or let's chat on UniBuddy!