Mexican Postgraduate Student
Testimonial
Lucía López Garci Crespo (25)
MA International Design Enterprise:
University of Lincoln, England (UK)
How did you decide to come to Lincoln?
I looked at several universities in the UK and narrowed my choice down to three based on the MA
(postgraduate) courses offered. It was actually the Santander International Scholarship that made it
possible for me to come to Lincoln, which was my preferred option because of the quality of the course.
What is the biggest difference between studying in Lincoln and in Mexico?
I have to say there are quite a lot of differences. First of all, the campus and all the facilities, the professors
and the way they teach and treat students. We are treated more like equals - they challenge us and
broaden the way we assess situations. The University’s atmosphere, having people’ from all over the World
to share experiences with is rewarding and differs from studying in Mexico.
How is a normal day in Lincoln?
In my opinion a normal day in Lincoln is beautiful! I wake up at a very nice hour (8am, not too early!). I have
breakfast, sometimes meeting in the kitchen with my flatmates who are now my friends. They come from
places as far away from Mexico as Malaysia! Then I walk to the Design and Architecture building, just 5
minutes away from where I live. On my way I cross a little bridge over the river, which is idyllic. I have my
lessons with both British and international students. The classroom atmosphere is great and inclusive,
sometimes we discuss relevant topics in the LPAC canteen. I come back home and have lunch, do some
work and then I go to the gym with my friends. Every time I go out I look uphill towards the Cathedral,
which I absolutely love! Sometimes our friends go out for walks along the river or towards the Castle. Other
times we spend evenings in the flat’s living room watching movies and spending time together. I have lots
to do and lots to read but I enjoy every moment of it!
How is student life there?
Really great, I have felt welcomed, accepted and included in lots of activities, socials and workshops.
How was the application process?
It was not very difficult and the university help a lot with the application process.
What difference has the Santander scholarship made for you personally (please can you make your answer
quite detailed)?
Being awarded the Santander Scholarship was for me one of the crucially important things that enabled me
to study in Lincoln, since paying the whole tuition exceeded my possibilities. The difference this scholarship
has made to me is huge as I am extremely happy every day I am here. It has been four months since I
arrived from Mexico and I have already learnt so much! My last's years new year’s wish was to undertake a
Master’s programme in UK. This year I am fulfilling this dream and Santander helped me to do so. For this I
am really very grateful.
Is there anything you think is negative or challenging to study in Lincoln?
So far I can’t think of anything negative. It is challenging yes! But I am challenged in a good and expected
way.
Tell me about the study and teaching - what is it like?
As I said before, the way teachers approach students is great, at least in my faculty (Design.) I have already
generated great relations with my tutor and other professors. They stimulate reflection and creativity as
well as create a very friendly and cooperative environment within the group. Studying is so pleasant! The
library and studios at the University are accessible, clean, well equipped, everything you could ask for or
need.
What do you do when you are not in school (hobbies and activities)?
I spend lots of time with my flatmates, we’re really close. We go to the gym or as I said before just out for
walks. I have joined the cathedral chorus (choir) because I love singing and I have found a part-time design
job for which I am extremely grateful.
Would you recommend others to study at your school? Do you have a few tips to new students?
I absolutely recommend it! Tips… well just enjoy it! Go out and talk to people, get to know other cultures
and views of life and try to make the best out of every second because this is a one in a life-time
experience.