Alpha Evans

What are your top 3 favourite things about Swansea?

• Best of both worlds regarding location- lovely beaches, coastal paths and various parks, but also a vibrant city centre with great night life.
• A variety of lovely local cafes and restaurants to try out.
• 'Swansea-ness'- how friendly locals are, and you just feel at home straight away.

Why did you choose to study your degree at Swansea?
I studied my undergraduate degree (BA Welsh) at Swansea before starting my PhD this year. I chose to study my degree at Swansea because when I attended an Open Day, all the staff members were really friendly and did everything they could to make me feel at home. Also, the I found the course really interesting with a variety of modules that I was interested in, and the academic staff in the Welsh Department were very friendly and supportive. I then decided to continue my studies and start my PhD because I was eager to undertake research but also because of the support and fantastic experiences and opportunities I have received at Swansea.

What is your favourite thing about your course?
My favourite thing about my undergraduate course was the variety of modules available. My favourite thing about my postgraduate course is how supportive my supervisor and all the staff members of the Welsh Department are.

What are you planning/hoping to do after you graduate?
After finishing my PhD, I intend to continue researching into the field, and perhaps follow an academic career such as lecturing.

Would you recommend Swansea University to other students?
I would 100% recommend Swansea University to other students- it is the best decision I've ever made. From the great support from lecturers and other staff in general, to the high standard of education, the location, the fantastic social life, and the wide variety of societies and sports clubs available, there's no place quite like Swansea!

Are you/have you been part of a society?
I was part of the Welsh Society (Y GymGym) for 3 years and was Vice-President of the society during my 3rd year at university. Being a part of the society was a great opportunity to meet new people, make new friends, learn new skills, try out different activities and get to explore Swansea.

Have you lived in halls during your studies?
I lived in Preseli halls of residence during my first year, which was a flat for Welsh speaking students. My experience in halls was great as it ensured I made friends right from the first day and ensured that I made friends with other people, not just people on my course.

Have you worked part-time during your degree?
I have worked as a Student Ambassador since my first year at university. It has been a great way to meet new people, gain several invaluable experiences and develop many skills, and of course has been a way to earn money whilst studying.

Do you speak Welsh?
Yes. The support from Academi Hywel Teifi and Swansea's Branch of the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol throughout the last 3-4 years has been incredible, and they always go above and beyond to help and develop Welsh medium students' experience at Swansea University. Also, being a part of the Welsh society and living in a Welsh medium flat during my first year also helped me to find my feet and settle in easier, especially moving from a very rural and Welsh speaking area.