The University of Dundee, the place to recapture my dream

Hi, I am Jing, from China and a mother of two daughters (one aged 5 and one aged 3). In 2020, I started my one-year Master of Education study at the University of Dundee. Although I had five years of teaching experience in Shanghai, moving to Scotland to start a whole new life was a challenge for me. The different cultural background and the language barrier made me gradually lack confidence and I seemed to be out of touch with society.

I have always been passionate about teaching and want to constantly enrich and improve myself. When I learned that the Education of the University of Dundee has a high reputation and excellent location, I did not hesitate to choose this university. Nevertheless, when I started the MEd program, I doubted my learning and language ability and worried about whether I could successfully complete my master's degree. On the one hand, because it had been 10 years since I graduated from my undergraduate degree; on the other hand, I still need to take care of my two daughters while I was studying. But I always believe that as long as I pay 100% effort, I will overcome difficulties.

The 2020-2021 academic year was tough for everyone, with all MEd modules adopting hybrid teaching due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although this mode of teaching could reduce the learning experience on campus, it also saved time for me to travel to and from campus every day (I live in Aberdeen). In class, I took an active part in the discussion, and when I was confused in learning, I actively communicated with the lecturers.  Meanwhile, I would carefully summarise the lecturer's class notes and read the references after class. It is worth mentioning that the MEd program has an excellent professional team of lectures who give us dedicated guidance and support. In particular, I would like to thank Richard Holme, Gillian Bartle and Kumara Ward and Marie Beresford-Dey for inspiring me in my academic studies. Additionally, there are many academic resources available to students, such as tutorial, academic writing support, and language support courses for international students. All of this helps students in their studies and has been of great benefit to me.

I enjoyed the MEd journey, which was intense, fulfilling and exploratory. It is a fascinating learning process that requires a deep understanding of the concept of education and a constant reflection on the practice of teachers as professionals in education. I am honoured to have met such professional, kind lecturers and lovely peers at the University of Dundee. It was a memorable experience for me and a turning point in my life. Currently, I have successfully graduated with Distinction and have started my Doctor of Education studies. As an international student, I hope my learning experience can be shared with those who are still confused, hesitant or just as passionate about teaching as I am. The MEd program is the best choice in terms of modules setting, faculty team and learning experience.

Learning is not about age, I am a 35-year-old mother of two, but I still retain my enthusiasm and dreams. The University of Dundee is the place where I recapture my dream. It is where I regained my confidence and where I opened the door to my future studies.