Elisa Hernandez Biffa

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

“Someday my daughter will study at this university.” That's what my mother said to herself during one of her visits to London as she walked by one of the University of Westminster campuses. When I finally had the opportunity to choose my Erasmus destination, the first place I applied for was the University of Westminster. It is the perfect marriage of history and innovation. The University is known to be very innovative as it was the first polytechnic institution in the UK. The institution has maintained its reputation, and staff are both proactive and interested in the progress of their students. Another quality that made me opt for a place here is the helpfulness and collaboration of all the people who work at the university, from the first email I received, to all the various meetings and guided tours around the university campuses. 

How has your experience been studying in London?

Studying abroad is something that every student should experience. London has the mentality that in order to achieve your ambitious goals you have to be open to exploring different ideas. The city and the university demonstrated to me that in order to graduate with good marks and to get the job you want, you have to put all your energy into it. It’s not just about showing up to class, it’s also the combination of working really hard and applying what you learn. The diversity in London also allows you to connect with amazing people from different cultures.

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

I really enjoy the practical assessments because they prepare us for the real world. Westminster has taught me that knowledge without use is nothing more than data. This information needs to be reasoned, contrasted and applied to the real world around us. 

Besides that, being an Erasmus student at Westminster, I’ve been able to take different modules from different courses, which has helped me to learn so much more. I find that all the modules are very stimulating because you get to learn so much!

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

When I arrived at the Harrow campus, I was surprised by just how big it was. It’s very modern and the library is one of my favourite places, as it has different sections where you can work alone or with your classmates. There are also study areas all around the campus and, particularly for the course I am undertaking, the newsrooms and the computer rooms are a must. The radio station, TV and film studios are also surprisingly large and very close to those in the professional world.

Tell us about your experience of using the University Careers and Employability Service 

The University Careers and Employability Service staff often send us invites to various industry events. They also encourage us to apply for jobs and attend CV making workshops. I’ve also received excellent help from tutors and career experts.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course 

For the second semester, I would like to contribute to the University’s radio station called ‘Smoke Radio’. It’s run by students and it features news, interviews and so much more! I’m really excited to join the team soon.

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

It’s a great place to study! The academics think about everything, from how you feel, whether you have really understood the assignments, to any questions that you might have. Studying at the University of Westminster is not just about finding a job. It’s a place where you can make your dreams come true. 

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

I love how different the teaching has been compared to how it is in my country. I feel like I have a voice and what I say really matters. As an Erasmus student, I’ve felt welcome and as part of the Westminster community. To be a Westminster student is an experience that I will never forget.

Check out the Digital Media BA course page for more information.