Staff members and course content can change from year to year. For detailed information about the academic year 2018-19, please visit our unit catalogue.

What is your role at the University of Bristol?

I am a teaching fellow, teaching accounting and finance to both International Foundation Programme and undergraduate students. I am also senior tutor for the School of Economics, Finance and Management, in charge of the personal tutor system.

How are you involved with the International Foundation Programme?

I teach on the Foundations of Finance and Economics unit of the International Foundation Programme. Because of my experience teaching international students, I am a good fit for this role.

I taught in China for nine months and in Singapore for two months, so I have a certain amount of understanding of students from these countries.

What’s it like teaching on the International Foundation Programme?

I absolutely love it – I really do. I had a good rapport with the students last year and this year. I’m good at speaking slowly for them, repeating things where necessary. I find that collectively and individually they’re a delight to teach.

It’s really important that you’re seen to be approachable. I know that in China the culture is for academics to be revered and for students to feel they should not question them. I try to get over this by presenting a very warm, friendly persona.

Do you see students develop during the International Foundation Programme?

I only teach the students up until December, so my acquaintance with them is brief. However, I do see their confidence improve over the course of those ten weeks. They start to pick up the key themes and there is clear evidence of improvement.

The course is a success, with a good pass rate and good pass marks. Some of my students have progressed onto undergraduate degrees this year. They often wave at me in the corridor, and we’ll have a quick chat.

What would you say to a prospective student?

The International Foundation Programme is excellent preparation for first-year undergraduate study. The Centre for English Language and Foundation Studies puts a lot of emphasis on student care. They are constantly asking for my opinions and feedback on students.

I would definitely, unreservedly recommend Bristol’s International Foundation Programme. There is no doubt the students are very well cared for and catered for.