Meenal Jangir

Meenal’s time at Goldsmiths

Academic freedom and diverse experiences

My favourite part of my degree was the opportunity to meet many people with diverse experiences, and getting the chance to work with them and converge ideas from across the world. The academic freedom and the chance to work on research projects was truly enriching.

Supportive and collaborative

What I enjoyed most about studying at Goldsmiths was the supportive and collaborative learning environment. The professors and fellow students were always willing to help and engage in meaningful discussions, which made the learning experience more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Inspiring professors

My experience within my department was fantastic. The professors are motivating and open-minded when it comes to helping students. Their passion for their subjects is very inspiring, empowering me to push my boundaries in the ways that I think and work.

Enriching option modules

One surprising aspect of studying at Goldsmiths was the range of option modules that brought many students studying different programmes together. It allowed me to meet new people outside of my programme and learn things from students with different backgrounds.

Personally transformative

Studying at Goldsmiths had a profound impact on me as a person. It not only equipped me with valuable knowledge and skills but also fostered personal growth and self-confidence. The emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving has shaped my approach to challenges in both my academic and personal life, making me more adaptable. Overall, the experience has been truly transformative, and I am grateful for the opportunities provided by Goldsmiths.

Advice for future students

My advice would be to take advantage of the diverse range of courses and academic resources available. Maybe even explore subjects outside of your major to broaden your thought process and understanding.

Engage with your professors, instead of feeling shy or fearing any conversations with them. They are valuable mentors who will be very open-minded about your ideas and in no way will judge you. They are also very open to discussing future career options!

Manage your time as studying a Masters degree can be quite demanding. But do not forget to balance your schedule. As Clea, the MA convenor, always said – go out in the park, meet friends, and don't forget to explore the city while you are in London.

Participate in activities on campus (or your accommodation if you are living in one), it is always buzzing with events and clubs. You will always have studying to do, but you should take some time out to relax and have some fun.

There were a lot of things I could have done better, but the journey of getting to this realisation is what counts. So you do you!

London life

Living in London sounds exciting but can also be a bit overwhelming, especially as an international student. Personally, I have lived in major cities back home too, so I am pretty used to the fast pace and crowds, but one cannot deny that moving countries, understanding different cultural ways of living and fitting in can feel like a lot.

But once I settled here, I found that people embraced me for who I am. Everyone is mature to understand each other, and the city itself is culturally diverse so I did also find people with whom I could share cultural similarities. I also learnt a lot about other cultures – for example, I learnt that South Asians and Latin Americans share a lot of similarities. It has been a life-changing experience, with my world view now a lot larger than it used to be, and I am glad to have taken this leap of faith.

Living in New Cross

I am living in one of Goldsmiths' halls of residence in New Cross, and it has been a beautiful experience. It is not too far away from Central London, but far enough to be able to live in an area that is surrounded by green spaces. There are beautiful walls adorned with street art around me, and so many restaurant options.

My favourite eating spots are the very affordable fried chicken shops around here (the trick is to read the window menus carefully and find good meal options that will fill you up). Lewisham Shopping Centre is also not too far away, where you can find the local fruit and vegetable market, along with some branded shops to meet your clothing requirements. It was a good choice to live near the university too, as walking in the College Green to take a break or living across from the Goldsmiths Library has been very convenient.