Lucas Coutin

Leeds ticks all the boxes

Why did you choose to study in Leeds and your course specifically? 

“I was debating between Zoology and Ecology at the University of Leeds. I picked Ecology because of the field trip opportunities and it seemed like a more niche and focused course, with more relevant knowledge. I picked the University of Leeds because of the people I met on my open day, some of whom I am still friends with today. Also, in comparison to other universities, Leeds seemed like it was the most equipped and it ticked a lot of boxes for me - campus, university, the city etc.”

Leeds seemed like it was the most equipped and it ticked a lot of boxes for me - campus, university, the city etc.

What have you enjoyed the most about your course? 

“The people and my professors. I like all the friendly people - its good we get to integrate with all of biology and some of the Earth and Environment Faculty students. If you take discovery modules (which I recommend) then you can branch out into more of the university and meet more people.”

Broadening your horizons

You completed a year abroad, can you tell me where and what did you study? 

“Aarhus University in Denmark, and I studied whichever modules the university would allow me. 2/3rds are required to be degree focused.”

Could you describe your day-to-day life whilst you were on your study year abroad? 

“Lots of cycling. I would often go into University or go into the city. It’s a nice place! Small enough to walk around but big enough that there’s something to do.”

When I came back to Leeds I'd say I was much more confident. I think just general development as a person from life experience is the main thing.

What do you think you have gained from your study abroad year that will benefit you in the future? 

When I came back to Leeds I'd say I was much more confident. I think just general development as a person from life experience is the main thing. Personally my study abroad opportunity helped me develop as a person and opened me up to going abroad for a Masters degree.

We’re here to help!

Have our facilities, such as libraries and labs, helped you get the most out of your degree?

“Libraries are good, but can get crowded sometimes. The online resources are probably more useful than anything else, but its good to have a physical space to work. I've never ever checked a book out.”

Did you use any of the faculty's support and wellbeing services?

“Yeah, mental wellbeing and counselling offers 4 sessions a year, so if you're struggling with any problem, university or non-university, related they're available. Support is emailed to you to let you know it’s available.”

Were you in receipt of any University scholarships, did this help? 

“Yeah, access to Leeds provides £2000 in funding a year in order to help out students that meet particular criteria.”

Work hard, play hard

What social events have you enjoyed the most? Are you a member of any student societies?

“Yeah, I used to be a member of Ultimate Frisbee. I've not joined any in my final year, but I'm running the ESN society and the SACA Society which are both have social and integration goals (for international and national students, and the student community with the Leeds community, respectively)”

What are your top highlights in Leeds and your favourite things to do in the city?

“I like a lot of the cafes in the city, which are good to study and work in (and drink coffee in). We also have good places on campus for all that. There are lots of social events and gigs (or clubs and parties if those are more your speed).”

Don’t miss out

Finally, what advice would you give to students considering undertaking a study abroad year?

“I would support it fully. If you have the option to do a whole year then take it. But be prepared for people you know to leave at the end of the first semester. It can be a hard time but meeting a second group of people in the second semester is the best thing ever. Your first and second semester will be entirely different experiences.”