Life at Bellerbys College

This Is It!

Posted by David, studying Engineering Foundation at Bellerbys Brighton

Term 3. Final term. Last 2 months in Bellerbys. This is it. Downside of this term? We got to stay through the summer holidays, just after bidding farewell to our fellow mates from A Levels and graduates from the September intake Foundation Program. 

I sighed to myself, wondering how I could survive this last two months without the usual liveliness of Bellerbys. I was horrified to picture the place I usually sit in for breakfasts, with all my friends occupying the whole row of tables reduced to a pathetic measly few. OH boy! How different would things be?

I slugged down the residence area for my first breakfast in Term 3, with a much weaker punch of enthusiasm. Then startled to sight a mob of new students, queueing up for food. They were the new Embassy students; also known as my life-savers for Term 3. Finally, a glimmer of hope that this final term would not be as lonely as I’d thought it would be.

Mrs Chris immediately introduced me to my first Sweden friend, Dennis. He is genuinely charming, not to mention a natural clown! It was admirable that he has come here all by himself to study English and stayed very optimistic about everything, albeit suffering from partial blindness. Getting to know him has made me record his name in my personal ‘People I Respect’ list. Definitely learnt a lot from him. 

Not only have I met Dennis, I soon got to meet a few more new students, most being older than me, already with a degree!

Things just kept getting better as I went to pick up the weekly activities schedule and saw a plethora of activities prepared for us for this summer. Field trips, clubbing nights, beach parties, sports like volleyball and bowling and salsa dance classes! Yes, we can officially forget about what I wrote earlier! The college has definitely catered to our needs, being as considerate as always.

2010. June to August. How can I forget the epic FIFA World Cup? Just this could occupy quite some time in my daily routine. As we all know, Spain emerged victorious. Another occasion that brought back the vivacious ambience in Bellerbys. The flags of all qualified teams were hung all around our cafeteria to get us in the mood of the prestigious event. 

And did I mention that we happened to go to the Brighton Kite Festival? It was spectacular as I never knew that kites could actually ‘dance’ besides having a stellar yet innovative outlook.

There are so many things in store for us that I have forgotten to tell you the main aspect of this term: academics. I study FES III, Mechanics II and CIT. As teachers would have to leave for their summer break as well, we have two teachers for some modules, each teaching half the course. My teachers include: Mr Dominic Rhys (FES III), Dr Cameron and Dr Butcher (Mechanics II) and Ms Sarah Witherby and Mr Tim Hewson (CIT). They were kind enough to spend part of their summer with us!

A bit more about the modules? FES III is all about preparing ourselves for university life, teaching us how to do researches without plagiarising etc. In other words, to score in this module, plain hard work is needed as we are required to submit a ‘mini-thesis’ of 1500 words. Also, we would occasionally have debates, note-making practices from listening to lectures and presentations. 

Mechanics, on the other hand, is rather nasty in my opinion. It was slightly tougher than the former module. But I shall strive through it. CIT, I would say, is a subject that complements FES III as we learn to use basic Microsoft Office programs, conduct proper research and professional presentation as well as designing our own blog/webpage.

With our term exams lurking around the corner, the annual prize giving ceremony was organised to acknowledge outstanding students in their respective fields. I was fortunate enough to bag the ‘Best Engineering Foundation Student’ award. A few of my other friends also managed to receive awards! 

Bellerbys also presents awards to most improved students so as to motivate all the other students to work as hard to our own betterment. With this ceremony over, all that is left is the term exams. I am lolling now in my room that has grown to become my home, counting down the days before I officially spread my wings from this pleasant college to university life.

Indeed, how time flies! This is really it. My final chapter in Bellerbys. It has been a great journey so far and I hope that this last run would be as terrific.

Stay tuned!

Bellerbys Term 2 Gone Already?!

Posted by David, studying Engineering Foundation at Bellerbys Brighton

“It’s going to be a breeze!”  That was my first impression of Term 2, seeing that we have one less module to study.  I could not even describe my repentance for this underestimation.  Term 2 was undoubtedly as eventful as the first, with a profusion of activities organised as well as the even more challenging modules of Electricity and Fields, English and Pure Maths 2.

As regards to the academic aspect of this term, Electricity and Fields would be the one module which I least looked forward to.  It was never my interest to study Kirchoff’s Law and the Millikan Oil Drop Experiment.

Thankfully, I had Dr Grant (my Matter & Waves teacher) as my teacher again.  Already used to her teaching method, it was made slightly easier for me to ‘conquer’ Electricity.  Similarly, Mr Bentham (Mechanics teacher) continued teaching us, but this time around, he taught us Pure Maths 2. English, on the other hand, was taught by Mr Kershaw and it took just seconds before we broke the ice then got comfortable with him.  He is one jovial teacher!  Definitely a proficient tutor to help us brace ourselves for the IELTS exam by the end of the term.

The main highlight of this term was the annual May Ball, which I have previously posted in greater details. Once again, I have to say that it was a truly magical night.  I was also fortunate enough to have a surprise birthday celebration organised by my friends in May.  Definitely one of my best birthday celebration ever which would have been perfect if only my family and friends back in Malaysia were here.  

Finally being able to go in and out of the residence block without dropping signatures surely felt liberating, though I would miss those daily check-ins where the supervisors check on us every night.  It was sometimes reminiscent of my parents checking on me before bed, making me feel safe and secure.  Not to forget, the Brighton Festival which commenced with a grandiose Children's Parade and ended with similar fashion projecting a mesmerizing array of fireworks display at the Brighton Marina.

Term 2 also defined our anxious wait for the university replies to our applications.  Students were seen scurrying in and out of the exam office’s walkway, checking their university mails.  Most were content, while some vowed that they would work harder to achieve the conditions offered by the universities.  I was personally gratified as the University of Sheffield has granted me an offer!  And the first person that came into my mind (besides my parents) was Mr Nix, my art teacher who has given me immeasurable assistance in bringing out the best in me for my portfolio devoid much architectural knowledge.  Then of course, Program Manager Mr Alan Beer and Kerry for helping me out with the application procedure, as well as the helpful advice on university choices.

 As usual, term exams awaited for us soon after completing the modules.  The Maths department designed an exam that took almost every ounce of my brainpower to answer.  Of course I was disappointed after the long hours of revision, but I have tried my best.  On a lighter note, Electricity was quite manageable despite my struggle with the subject.  Most students had to go through the IELTS exam as well.  Having finished our papers, I could not help but feel elated from the completion of Term 2.

Despite the joy of post-Term 2, it also meant the bidding of farewell to the friends whom I have grown close to from the A-level course, the Embassy and the September Intake Foundation course.  

6 months have passed so very swiftly and I could not believe that I have to part with them already.  Not only were they great friends, they were role models as well, earning recognitions during their prize-giving ceremony, being the top in their respective fields. They were such short friendships which I greatly appreciate and would like to maintain.  Bonds that would certainly persevere after my time in Bellerbys.  Emotions got the best of me as I could not help but shed a few tears when I sent them off, one by one.  I wish them a fantastic summer holiday.

All in all, Term 2 was concoction of thrill, laughter, hardcore work as well as hardcore fun, though ending in quite a bittersweet note.  The end of this term meant the numbered days left that I have in Bellerbys.  It had sunk in that I would be going into my third and final term, before I graduate and proceed to the new chapter of my life: Sheffield University. 

Excited for Sheffield yet reluctant to part with Bellerbys, I could only appreciate this final term and make the most out of it.

Until then, dear readers!

Thank you for reading!

Easter Road Trip Around UK Universities! (Part 2)

Posted by David, studying Engineering Foundation at Bellerbys Brighton

Hello hello!

Back again here for the second part of my extensive trip during Bunny period!

Edinburgh

Perhaps the most distinguishable aspect about Edinburgh is the people there. Locals in Britain are generally amiable, but I must say that the people in Edinburgh are even more hospitable. They are extremely well-mannered, not to mention very efficient at work. (The waiters are amazing!) Edinburgh is packed with street shops, a rather nice city. We managed to drop by the castle terrace. The University of Edinburgh, on the other hand, is renowned for their  preeminent medicine degree course. Food wise, Scottish pie is not to be missed as well as their tender sirloin steak. We also had Chinese food for dinner and they sure do cook as well as the actual Chinese.

Otterburn
Otterburn was an impromptu stop for lunch and it turned out to be one of the nicest meal in my opinion. It was at Otterburn Mill, catering traditional cottage food as well as handling wool by their bred sheep. It seemed like a very nice breather from visiting modern cities.

Newcastle
We arrived at Newcastle and I thought I recognised the atmosphere. It seemed very much like London, except that London is slightly busier. Plenty of shops, within walking distance. Although Newcastle is nearly identical to London, the biggest difference would be that Newcastle is the Britain city with the lowest cost of living, contrasting with London, of which has the highest. Newcastle University has consistently been ranked as one of the top universities, yet offering amazing offers to students like scholastic discounts. Students graduating from Bellerbys are even eligible for further discounts. How lucky are we!

Manchester
Glory, Glory, Man Utd. Yes, we all sidetracked from university hunt to football fever. We laid eyes on the actual Manchester Stadium. Merchandise were everywhere and boy, we were tempted! Not only that, there were prints on the brick road; names of the footballers such as David Beckham, Sir Alex Ferguson and Jimmy Delaney. Satisfied from our football fetish, we went to Manchester’s Chinatown. Its vivacious ambience could match the one in London. I felt like it was home again. Manchester, I would definitely come back here sometime soon.

Sheffield
My future. I stared at the buildings wide-eyed. This is where I would be going after graduation in Bellerbys. I just fell in love with the place. Though slightly colder than Brighton, Sheffield (the green city) is profuse in terms of lifestyle. It has the Supertram, the award winning light rail service as well as one of the biggest British shopping mall, Meadowhall. Not to mention, a very active nightlife in West Street and an eventful performing arts platform. And paramountly, Oriental food stores in abundance! 

There are two universities in Sheffield: University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam, both very prestigious campuses. University of Sheffield, in particular, has been graded with numerous first-rate courses. I could not wait to start my university life there, yet reluctant to leave Brighton.

Cardiff
Cardiff seemed more of a rustic town, having more conventional ancient buildings and greenery. Having said so, it simply means that it is an ideal place to study as one would not be easily distracted. 

The university, on the other hand, is one of the upper echelons among elite universities as well. Very highly regarded for their architecture course, they also provide numerous services within the university to attend to the students’ needs.

Bristol > Bath
Bristol is apparently a nice city. I was not too sure because I have slept through the journey when we were passing through Bristol. According to my friend, it is a very lively city, with a cornucopia of shopping malls and public vicinities. Bristol University would be famous for Law and Medical Science courses. It is situated very close to Bath, a more serene city. The University, however, is currently the top architecture school in Britain. It is one of the most beautiful campus I have ever seen with an established performing arts sector in the university.

Brighton
Finally, Brighton, the place where my post high-school life had started. I sincerely feel that Brighton is an amazing city to start off as a foreign student. It is generally a city, moderate in size with many events especially since it is a tourism hotspot, mainly due to the pebble beach. I am more than grateful to have chosen to go to the Brighton campus. It has undoubtedly become my second home. Bellerbys has only made the whole college experience even easier.

Brief Summary : 
This trip is like a hamburger of fun, knowledge; culturally and academically, mashed up together. I have learnt wonders in this road trip, from Britain’s geography, university whereabouts and ultimately, the beauty of snow! I am a snow person. On a more serious note, it gave me a very clear impression of my university choices, hence enabling me to choose more wisely.

Going to so many places in the UK made me appreciate Brighton so much more. Definitely proud to be a ‘Brighton-eer’. I LOVE BRIGHTON!

For more pictures, do have a look at my albums. Do keep up with me and my posts! 
You readers are truly an inspiration for me to write more often.

Bye!

How I Was 'Architected'

Posted by David, studying Engineering Foundation at Bellerbys Brighton

Hello dear readers!

Some people know precisely what they would want to pursue since childhood. Unfortunately, I was not one of them. I personally found it really tough in determining the course I would like to pursue. If you have been reading my previous posts, you would know how easily enthusiastic I could be in everything. This attribute of mine (which I feel grateful to have) actually backfired during this period of time. Since I enjoy doing a lot of things, I was not able to identify what I enjoy doing the most, or which one of them I have the most talent in. 


Accordingly, this post would be all about how I determined my course in hopes of sharing my experience in literally shaping my future with you readers especially those who might face the same dilemma as me.

So why architecture? I used to immediately reject the thought of becoming an architect every time it was suggested. I was all over the place, considering from psychology to food science, business to fashion designing and even teaching or medicine. I then started to envision what I see myself doing in the future, not professionally, but what I expect to literally do. I initially confirmed that I would pursue something related to art yet with a bit of science, then progressed to envisage the frequent practice of leadership, teamwork and presentations. With these little aspects that I foresee and the help of my education agency, I finally settled down with architecture. I should not have made presumptions about architecture as my inceptive idea about the field was so different from what architects actually do, after listening to my agent’s elaboration of the esteemed profession.

Seeing that it was such a late realisation, I came to Bellerbys, devoid of any knowledge about architecture. I have tried my hardest to do researches, but I just did not know where to start. “Do you have a portfolio?” Mr Beer, my programme manager asked me on my first day. I stood still, dumbfounded, flatly saying no. Thankfully, Mr Beer was kind enough to explain what I was supposed to do. I was told to draw random portraits of buildings while he arranged art classes for me.

Feeling extremely unprepared, I tried my best to make up for my lack of self initiative by starting to sketch buildings in Brighton. I had no idea what I was doing, but I knew that I needed to put something together for my art teacher to evaluate. Using purely my instinct as I have never drawn buildings before, I meticulously sketched out the photographs I have taken. 

Surprisingly, it turned out not too bad! Encouraged, I started drawing more and more.

When I had to see Mr Nix (my art teacher), I remembered him advising me to start seeing things as an architect, besides telling me the outline of the architecture degree programme. Being an Engineering Foundation student, I only had limited time with him. Realising so, I attempted to make full use of the time by preparing questions to ask him before I see him. Eventually, I was only able rendezvous with him as the term became busier. As instructed, I started initiating my own projects for my portfolio, seeking his advice only when necessary. I found this process quite strenuous, yet again due to my lack of knowledge and self confidence in my judgment. Nevertheless, this independent style of learning really made me grow so much as an aspiring architect, not to mention embracing myself for university life.

I pushed my own boundaries, endeavouring to experiment with a plethora of art techniques. I tried the typical sketching and detailing with different mediums; pencils, pens, chalk and photography work, steadily progressing into carvery, collage and the study of motion. I had to do figure drawing too. Yes, drawing nude people standing right in front of me.

Speak about awkwardness! Albeit being a conservative Malaysian, I ultimately got used to the idea. (Going to the gym really helped reduce the awkwardness level!) I also conducted researches on architecture for some self development before university life. When I was finally endowed with adequate confidence, I mustered up my courage to attempt some self designing, initially creating a dog kennel based on an apple, tiger and the colour black. In due course, I have designed toilets, stadiums and museums.

In the past term, I have been so engrossed with architecture that I even found orange peels architecturally enthralling! Finishing my portfolio elated me, literally having a huge part of my burden banished. It has been such a fun experience and I have started to believe that architecture is the right choice for me. All in all, I just have to say that a course should be chosen after a lot of individual researches on the field and whether it is what one would be most passionate about, rather than what is most financially rewarding. It is going to be something we deal with for a lifetime.

 I really hope this could help some of you troubled pre-college students as I fully comprehend how it was like, having been in the same position once.

A big shout-out to Mr Nix before I end my penning: Thank you so much for being such an amazing teacher. You have made me develop wonders in my architectural skills. I appreciate your effort in making me think independently and learn to trust my instinct. Thank you for the occasional words of encouragement as well as the timely laughters. You are a VERY FUNNY teacher! Also, my deepest apologies for bugging you almost 24/7. I am just naturally compelled to see your face! :)

Thank you for reading!


More of David’s coming soon! Stay tuned!

Voluntary Work at the Brian Eno Exhibition, Brighton Festival

Posted by David, studying Engineering Foundation at Bellerbys Brighton

Selamat pagi/tengah hari/petang/malam, readers! That means good morning/afternoon/evening/night in my national language, the Malay language, since I probably do not know when exactly you readers will be reading my blog.

I sat down one day, idly wondering what I could do during my leisure times instead of repetitive revisions or drawings.  We cannot possibly study 24/7.  In fact, we should not.  We should have a balance in everything we do.

Well, the A-level exams are drawing nigh, which means it would be unlikely to sight A-level students free enough to entertain me and my incessant energy.  Foundation students seemed occupied enough with their own work, which left me thinking about volunteer working. 

What with my extremely pathetic web surfing skills, I magically stumbled upon a volunteer opportunity in the upcoming Brighton Festival.  It read “Art Exhibition at Malborough House by Brian Eno.”

Brian Eno?  I have to be honest.  I was oblivious as regards to who he was; absolutely clueless.  I just thought to myself how cool it would be to meet an actual artist.  Having been totally new in voluntary working, I was excited yet dubious of what I might have gotten myself into.  You see, I have trust issues with the Internet, earlier being convinced that all offers made on the Internet are somewhat scams and plans devised to kidnap you.  I am a paranoid child! 

Nevertheless, I sought advice from Mrs Chris and was approved by her that it was safe for me to proceed.  Gleefully, I leapt onto my laptop, typing out an email to apply for my first volunteer job.

Briefings during the induction gave me a clear view of what I needed to do.  We work in two different exhibition places: Fabrica Art Gallery and Malborough House.  Fabrica contained the ’77 Million Paintings’  where Brian played with sets of 4 different sized screens comprising of various motives overlapping in time.  Along the entrance walkway, activities like colour tone-based Sudoku and naming colours kept some visitors occupied.

Malborough House, on the other hand, was a slightly different environment, housing 5 rooms distinctively defined with Rick Holland’s poem.  Based on the different poems, Brian cleverly brought out the ambience of the room by manipulating his installation of his self-designed speaker flowers, prompting the visitors to imagine to the fullest. 

The most interesting room for me had to be the one where he used disco balls as reflectors shone through a white light between his ‘flowers’, exuding a biological imprint on the walls of the dark room; resembling haemoglobin in our body cells as mentioned in Rick’s poem.

Working for Brian Eno for the past few weeks had been amazing.  Seeing that Bellerbys is a college only meant for foreign students (besides the local teachers of course), it is gratifying to actually have the opportunity to interact with the locals in Brighton.  

I have met so many different kinds of people from all walks of life.  There were kids who were completely engrossed with the Sudoku and questioned the artwork in a surprisingly innocent yet innovative manner. The funniest encounter had to be in Malborough’s house when a man asked us volunteers if we were real people. (How random is that?) 

There was also a sentimental moment when a lady creatively named a colour after the date of her son’s birth.  She elaborated how she felt during his birth and sent her prayers that all will be well with him in the future. 

Speaking with the British people has dramatically spurred my confidence in speaking, which I am certain, would be of a paramount asset when I enter my university.  It was certainly the icing on the cake that this experience could potentially be the ‘sugar and spice’ in my college reference, giving my reference an extra punch of something outside of school than plain academic reports.

Not only that, throughout the entire period, I have met similar art enthusiasts working for the event as well. They were not all students, but experienced art pursuers too.  Having met them enabled me to learn a bit more about the perception of art.  Some volunteered to improve their grasp of the English language or simply to show their mettle in dealing with public speaking.  Did I just hear a way to improve one’s IELTS speaking test? 

Anyways, with Malborough House coincidentally being one of Brighton’s architectural masterpiece in Brighton, I was lucky enough to be able to first-handedly witness the structurally rich building.  By the way, previously mentioning that I did not know much about Brian Eno, I was completely infatuated with his work.  Getting to meet him really was like meeting the artsy version of Sara Bareilles.  (I am a die hard fan of Sara Bareilles.)

A big shoutout to Tila and Tasha (the volunteer managers): Thank you so much for the warm hospitality with all the frequent provision of snacks and drinks.  Not to mention, treating us volunteers with such consideration, allowing us to switch places so that we could also experience different aspects of Brian’s work while working. 

I was also amazed by how you both could effortlessly remember all of our names.  There were so many of us and yet it seemed like you have known us for ages.  It certainly made us feel appreciated.  It has been such an experience under your leadership skills.  Not to forget, being meticulous enough to brief us on different ways to handle certain scenarios.  Now, I certainly know how to get myself out from someone who has been talking to me for ages, hindering my work. One thing though, can we keep the volunteer shirt? *laughs*  Most importantly, a gigantic TERIMA KASIH (thank you in my national language) for instilling good work ethics in me.

Dear readers, voluntary working has initially started as something merely to fill up my days.  Instead, I ended my experience, with a profusion of accomplishments from vocational experience, communication skills, social networking, discipline, more architecture, and town exploration!  It was definitely a worthwhile experience, which I reckon that everyone should give it a go.  I am definitely grabbing the next opportunity that comes, anticipating for more exposure in this second home country of mine.

Thank you once again for reading.
Au revoir!

Breaking Out

Posted by David, studying Engineering Foundation at Bellerbys Brighton

“Basketball tomorrow?" my friend asked me perkily.  Whilst trying to maintain a calm demeanour, I frantically searched for a polite excuse to get myself out of the invitation.

I was never keen on sports.  I mean, I do enjoy watching sports, especially tennis.

In fact, I am an ardent Federer fan and supportive towards the return of the two Belgium former No.1’s, Clijsters and Henin. Despite so, I usually hesitate in playing sports myself. I would much rather hit the gym than indulge in ball or racquet games. You see, I was the typical chubby kid during my childhood.  I resented moving to such an extent that I would cry when I was told to run for Sports Days (No kidding!  But that was when I was really young).

Growing up, certain sports did spark my interest, but as much as I wanted to try them, my low self esteem kept me questioned: “I absolutely have neither the talent or any experience compared to the others. I would just make a fool out of myself.” It certainly did not help that I have once smacked my badminton doubles partner right in the face while charging my racquet towards the shuttlecock (Yes, I am that bad).

This perception of mine went on and I eventually concluded that I was too old, to pick up a sport.

Yet somehow, I blurted out an affirmative reply (I was actually going to say that I sprained my toes.  Joking!). Surprisingly, I was not praying desperately for the next day to never arrive.  I dismissed all my pessimistic thoughts and told myself that it was just going to be quality time with my friends.

The day arrived.  My friends and I casually divided ourselves in teams, while being filled in with basic rules simultaneously.  Soon, the game officially commenced.  Initially, it was tough for me to get out of my shell. 

I constantly reminded myself to refrain from unnecessary clumsiness and awkward movements, most importantly not to injure any of my friends.  Obviously, my dire attempt failed miserably and my friends started teasing me playfully for my ‘dancing’ movements.  A clarification : I could not help it!  Dancing is the only experience I have in terms of movement and body coordination.  I subconsciously applied it.  (I partly blame my influence from the Glee cast who played rugby while dancing to Beyonce’s Single Ladies tune.)  Albeit my extremely sensitive self consciousness, I just laughed at myself, with my friends.

“This ain’t so bad!” I thought.  Why not just embrace my flaws and eccentricity?  Realising so, I let loose completely, hence immersing myself into the game.  I dribbled and passed the ball to the best of my ability, trying to minimise the occasional blunders and panic attacks when I have the ball. 

And guess what?  Halfway through the game, I actually scored a point for my team!  Although it was just a petty accomplishment, it meant so much to me.  I know clearly that I am an easily excited person, but I could tell that this is not a mere exhilaration.  It made me realise how wrong I was to think that I do not deserve to play sports.  

It is never too late to learn something and definitely does not require talent. Passion is the key as well as the simple desire to have fun!

From then on, we have made basketball a weekly routine and I could see myself learning new aspects of playing sports (we sometimes venture into football), thus improving slowly but steadily.  Besides, it can be a much better exercise compared to working out all by myself in the gym.  I must thank my dear friends for the words of encouragement and simply for being a part of this little enlightenment.  I feel so grateful to have made such great friends here in Bellerbys.  They are such genial and supportive people, despite their difference in cultural backgrounds.

I hope that this confession may inspire some of you readers to get out of your comfort zones and challenge yourselves to do things you never thought you could do.  Not just sports, but anything at all.  And if you think you’re too dorky, clumsy or a plain oddball, I totally feel the same.  So, just build up the self esteem and do not bail on yourself before even trying.  To those who have absolutely no problem with these kinds of matter, thank you for your time reading my doodling.

Till we meet again! :)

My Daily Routine at Bellerbys

Posted by David, studying Engineering Foundation at Bellerbys Brighton

Aloha everyone!


I was a rather busy student back in Malaysia, being involved in various school activities.  Arriving here in this new environment simply seems like reconstructing my daily routine from scratch.  It really took quite a while for me to rustle up my courage and take part in activities either organised by Bellerbys or outside of the college.  I knew I had to do something during my leisure times to release my indefatigable energy.

Therefore, I have consistently been collecting those pieces of coloured notices listing out the weekly activities in Bellerbys, throughout the term.  I started attending yoga and fitness classes after the college hours.  And I must say that they really do make me sweat!  Apart from that, I go for guitar lessons on Fridays.  It was very considerate of them to organise two different guitar classes - beginners and intermediate for students of different levels of experience in the instrument.

There are so many other activities I would have loved to be involved in if not for the time restriction that I have.  For instance, the Debating Society, martial arts, violin, drumming, table tennis and the Poetry and Books Club.  What I anticipate the most is the dance club, which is going to be established soon.  I cannot wait for the first class!

Not only that, I have become a member of Fitness First (a ten minutes walk from the campus).  It was my first experience possessing a gym membership.  When I was given a tour of their facilities, I had to check and make sure that the equipments were safe enough for a clumsy user like myself.  Ever since watching Final Destination 3, I have never had a good impression of gyms.  (Watch the movie and you will know what I mean!)  Contrary to my beliefs, (or maybe it’s just Fitness First) going to the gym is actually safe and fun!  Not only the equipments have simple-to-follow instructions, the trainers there are very approachable, always more than glad to advise you on the right exercising method to prevent unnecessary injuries.

Nonetheless, what I am most fascinated about this membership is the group classes that they have offered, comprising of cardiovascular exercises, toning regimens, body balancing classes and lastly, DANCE classes!!!!  They organise Street/HipHop, Latin and Strictly Fit classes, where the dance genre would vary from time to time.  If only they have offered contemporary dance classes, this gym would have been perfect.  My personal favourite (besides the dance classes, of course) is the Spinning Classes.  We cycle for our lives during those sessions, pressing our feet against the pedal rapidly to synchronise our speed with the energetic upbeat music.  The pace of our rpm (revolution per minute), in other words, the speed of our feet’s movement is literally like rolling drumsticks.  I never thought that was possible until I actually did it myself.  I never knew the cycling methods could have been this versatile too.  A secret confession to make, I cannot cycle conventionally for nuts.  Thank goodness the gym ones are stable spinners.  Hence, I quote from Mr Bentham, just ‘throw yourself into deep water’.

Despite these self-indulgent ‘everything is good’ ramblings of mine, there is an initially negative aspect of my gym experience.  I would say that I come from a rather conservative country.  So, obviously, you could have imagined how stunned I was when I entered the gym toilet and all I see was exposed male body parts.  Culture shock really hit my brain at that instant.  I got used to it though, eventually.  It was sometimes not even about the awkwardness I felt, but the sheer intimidation from seeing their chiseled bodies.  Well, not all of them, but you get the idea.  The feeling of insecurity was soon channeled into a stronger sense of motivation to increase my fitness level and most importantly, my health.

Did I also tell you that the Fitness First in Brighton has a sauna and steam room?  Okay, enough of the gym, I have recently signed up to volunteer for this charity group called Moving Voices, but yet been able to assist them due to the clashing times with my classes.  I tried searching for other voluntary work too, especially charitable ones.  And I actually heard (vaguely) from my classmate that people can soon volunteer to contribute to the Olympics Games in 2012.  Will definitely post something about it if I have actually stumbled upon this once in a lifetime voluntary program.

Of course, aside from all these activities that I have been doing, my academic performance is still my top priority.  I limit myself to a maximum of three activities a day and study at night.  I firstly complete my homework, then proceed to recapping what I have learnt for the day, before mind-mapping everything during the weekend.  If I still have time, I would do some research about architecture to increase my depth of knowledge in the field.  Weekends are even better as I would be able to hang out with my friends.  I have to give credit to my personal diary designed with such an efficient layout for me to conveniently plan my daily routine.  In my opinion, this habit of scheduling your daily plans is extremely beneficial.  Do try it!

Stay tuned for more David!

Thank you once again for your time in reading this ‘little’ entry of mine.

Till we meet again!

Signing off!

Find out more about studying Engineering Foundation at Bellerbys Brighton.

Defining Myself :)

Posted by David, studying Engineering Foundation at Bellerbys Brighton

HELLO readers!!

I feel ecstatic and well beyond honoured to blog on behalf of Bellerbys.  Before I introduce myself and officially pen entries about my life in Bellerbys, I must thank everyone who had made this possible for me. Mr Addison, Mr Corcut, and Ms Courtney.

Last but not least, Mr Beer, who also approached me about this matter, not to mention the countless assistance he had already given me and Mrs Chris who has been instrumental in hastening this opportunity.
 
If you are in the Brighton campus, spot this typical Malaysian guy who smiles so wide for absolutely no reasons, usually donning ties and vests paired with jeans, strapped with an obviously undersized backpack for the amount of things he put inside and a water bottle. That would be me, always pacing very briskly between the corridors of the art and science department.

My name is David Kam, an Engineering Foundation student fresh from Term 1, pursuing Architecture. Evidently, this would mean that I am deeply intrigued by the wonders of architecture.  It was a rather late passion though, paradoxically developed from my interest in fashion designing.  I just generally like peculiar geometrics.  The art of photography is also something I greatly appreciate.  Not only that, I do not mind calculations and simple physics.  However, should I continue listing the number of things I find engrossing, you would never see the end of this post.  I just like.....everything.  Nothing could seem boring.

As for my hobbies, I get very enthusiastic about the little things in life.  (It has become my nature.)  I am also infatuated with dancing, yoga, hitting the gym and listening to music.  Of course, like everyone else, I love hanging out with my friends.

I like trying out various new things too.  Throughout my high school years, I have earned a Diving License and a Life-Saving Proficiency Medal (It was arduous for me to overcome my hydrophobia), scaled the highest mountain in my country, kayaked, abseiled and even eaten raw goat’s liver (as part of some Fear Factor-like challenge).  These experiences are truly memorable and they encourage me to take on more challenges.  But if you know me enough, the one thing I absolutely would not do is to eat cucumber.  Its smell just disturbs me.  Yes, I am a rather random person.

Having already been in Bellerbys for a few months, I have adapted well to the college.  I quite like the way it is designed where departments of different subjects are located in respective floors, making it so simple for us students to navigate our ways to the classes.  It certainly helps me as I have no sense of direction at all.  I am happy with the library as well as the ever so resourceful Mrs Peers (our librarian).  The ample amount of books, especially books on architecture, in the library is just so tempting.  I have to admit that I am a tad bit geeky.  The canteen, on the other hand, is fine.  It is definitely a cosy place where I hang out with my friends the most.

Speaking about cosy, nothing beats my residential room here in Bellerbys.  As time flies, this room of mine has become so functional and dear to me that I fear I would have a tough time vacating it by the end of my time here.  It is just so perfect.  Location wise, it is situated facing the railway station, but the minimal noise did not seem to affect me at all.  Maybe I am just a heavy sleeper.  The fact that my room number (165) is also the date of my birthday, 16th May, is definitely the icing on the cake.  This new home of mine is trademarked with montages of pictures depicting my life back in Malaysia as well as moments in Bellerbys.

Friends!  I must say, this aspect of entering a new environment is usually something which everyone would worry about.  I was fortunate enough to have instantly befriended the people in Bellerbys.  Regardless of their race, Russians, Kazakhs, Nigerians, Vietnamese, Hong Kongers, Chinese, Singaporeans, Thai etc, they are all so amiable!  There are also quite a number of Malaysians here whom I have become quite close to.  In my class, however, I am the only Malaysian.  In addition to that, our class is made up of only boys.  It seemed that no girls were interested in pursuing engineering this year.  How unfortunate!

This new undertaking elates me, previously being the Co-Editor in Chief of my high school’s online magazine.  It is not only something I would enjoy doing during my leisure times while briefly practising my writing skills (I hope you’re reading this, Ms Lorna and Mr Ben) as I sincerely hope that through my views and experiences in my daily scoop of life, I could connect and relate to people, in and outside of Bellerbys.

I just have so many things to share with you readers that it is practically impossible to include everything in my introductory post. I hope you have enjoyed my penning.  I am glad to be able to share my experiences with you readers.  I have also included some pictures of my experience in Term 1.  Stay tuned for my future entries : kick-starting Term 1 and 2, an insight of my architecture portfolio, etc.  Should you have any enquiries at all, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at davidkam09@gmail.com.

And thank you once again for reading. Adieu!

Signing off.

Facebook - Connecting People! (part two)

Posted by Ksenia

In one of my posts I have already mentioned how important is Facebook in the life of young people and the only thing I can add is that this importance becomes more and more significant – at least for me.  At first all the endless applications, silly quizzes, requests, flowers, kisses, hugs or whatever from people I have never seen before really irritated me.  But while the number of my friends - English-speakers was growing I realized that Facebook is really doing a great job.  It made possible for me to meet people who otherwise could never become my friends and, the most important; it gave me a chance to help some of them.

Answering a few simple questions was the best I could do for those who contacted me but seemed to be a good way to make them a bit more calm and confident about themselves and their future arrival to the UK.  It is a hard decision to make – to come and study in another country where you do not know anybody and leave your friends and family behind.  But at the same time it’s a big step up – a chance to get the top-quality education, meet new people and become more or less independent.  So I hope that I have helped a few people to make the right choice. 

On the 9th of September a new term started at Bellerbys Brighton.  Dozens (if not hundreds!) of new students will be joining ELPP, GCSE, A-level, Foundation programs.  One of them is Zuzka, a girl from the Czech Republic who I have introduced to you in one of my previous posts.  Before her arrival she asked me a few good (as usual) questions which some of you might find interesting if you are thinking to come to Bellerbys.

Zuzka
Well I wanted to ask you about bank accounts in England.  Because I think I will need a bank account over there.  I read that Bellerbys helps students with registering with a UK bank.  Do you have any idea about which bank do they register students with?  Because I would like to have a bank which is like close to school so I could easily access it to get some cash.  Is there any need of my parents signing some documents since I am not 18?  Ha-ha, I know, too many questions, but that is just what I am ... ;)  But anyway thanks a lot for all of your help :)))

Me
Banks are easy.  College prepare a letter for you (just go and ask in Student Services) and arrange an appointment.  You will need some kind of permission from your parents but it’s very informal- nothing to worry about - and can be done as soon as they will tell you what they need (I guess it was something like an e-mail in my case).  The easiest one to go for is Natwest.  It has an office very close to school (in the shopping center) and has a very easy to manage accounts designed especially for people like us (I recommend you sign up for on-line banking as soon as you get your account, then you do not need to go to the bank at all).  They will talk you through everything - but it’s really very easy).

Zuzka
Hey Ksenia:)  Thanks a lot for your answer - do I get it right that there's no need of thinking about the account now and it's enough to solve it in the UK?  And does Natwest have some ATM near school to get to some cash without paying additional fees?

Me
Sure that you do not have to think about it now - anyway international students do not get many options.  If you decide to go with Natwest they will open for you two accounts - Reserve (the one on which all the money from your parents will be) and Step (for everyday use).  This system is very useful - though you get two cards you can only use one of them - the one from step account - and even if it gets lost or stolen you still can use the rest of the money – it makes you absolutely calm about your card when you are going out, for example.  That is why online banking is great - you can transfer money from Reserve account on Step in seconds.  Of course all of that is absolutely free.  They will explain it to you again when you will come to open the account.  The closest ATM is at Brighton station (1 min away).  As most of ATM’s in the UK it’s free to use.

Zuzka
I'm quite surprised about the ATM being for free; in my country most ATM’s charge some small fee from your account if you use it... :)  Thanks a lot for your information :)  Do most Bellerbys students have the Natwest account or it varies?  The system of two cards looks truly useful, I feel like that would suit me well :)

Me
Most of them have Natwest because it is the one suggested by Bellerbys.  You can also have Lloyds or some others but I have no idea about it :)

Zuzka
Haha thank you for your advice :)  Surprisingly, I have more questions (you know, only ten days remain and I still feel like I don’t know what I am going to do)....  Well, in regards to my question...  It might sound stupid but I’m interested in Biology and Chemistry exams.  I mean, there are practical ones, aren't there?  Could you please tell me how does a practical exam in Biology and Chemistry look?  It's just that I'm still thinking about taking subjects from both humanities and sciences and practicals are really something I'd be worried about - I have never done anything really similar.

Me
I perfectly understand that you are worried even though I know that you have absolutely nothing to be worried about.  Well, now the practical exams will be a bit different to what I have been doing because the syllabus (the exact list of what we had to know) might have changed and the college has changed the examining boards as well.  But I can give you a rough idea - for Chemistry it is not at all difficult and is real fun - you are given a few unknown substances and instructions of what to do with them and at the end you have to tell what is the substance which is always quite obvious.

Then you will either have to do a titration (mix a base and an acid together to find the point at which is mixture is neutral by the change of colour of indictor paper -it is a way of finding a concentration of acid/base) or an experiment connected with temperature - either to measure the temperature change in a reaction and find out how much heat was released, or to find melting/boiling point of a substance.  You will practice all those things for the whole year so you will be absolutely perfect when the exam time comes.  For biology we have not actually done the practical exam - we have done a coursework (you have to plan and do the experiment) and a written alternative to practical (when the experiment was already done for you and you will have to analyze the data).  So I do not actually know what you are going to do.

But anyway most students have not done any practicals before coming to Bellerbys and it is never a problem - everything is made easy and explained very carefully and of course practice makes perfect!

I think you really should take some science subjects – it’s very interesting and respected by universities.  Of course it’s not the easiest thing to study but so rewarding!

Zuzka
Hey)))) Thanks a looooooot for your answer:)  I still don't know if I’ll take science - do you think Mr Corcut would advise me about it during the interview?  And, yeah, surprisingly, that's another one of my annoying questions) what is this interview like?  Should I somehow prepare for it?  Oh my God only 5 more days, I am totally excited, though nervous anyway ;)

Me
Oh, you know that you are always welcome!  First thing – interview are NOTHING to worry about.  I won’t even call it an interview – rather an appointment to discuss you future studies in Bellerbys.  Mr. Corcut (as you already know the head of A-levels) will just ask you a few obvious questions – what are you interested in, what are you approximate plans for the future, which subjects you are planning to take.  It is not to assess you in anyway – it’s to help Mr. Corcut to understand how he can help you.  The only thing you can do to prepare is to try and think of what YOU personally want to do.

You should understand that Mr. Corcut is a very experienced man, he knows lots of facts about universities and he will probably advise you to take “serious’ subjects like Math and Sciences, Economic, English Literature or History – the ones that are the most respected by the top places and he will probably be right.  But it’s your life, your future and your decision.  I can tell you that doing an A-level subject that you do not like only because the universities do is quite wrong (unless of course you change your mind when you will start studying it) – it will be hard and boring for you and you will be unlikely to achieve very high results.

Personally I have chosen Sciences because of one simple reason – I love it, and I hope you will be able to decide in the same way.  Good luck and remember that one of the greatest experiences is about to start!!!! 

And to finish off this post one more question from Ange Chandra, Indonesia who is also thinking to join Bellerbys College.

Ange Chandra
What do you think of ELPP?  Do you think it's important for international students to take that course?  Did you, yourself, take ELP course the first time you joined Bellerbys?

Me
Well, when I first came to Bellerbys my level of English was really poor.  So I urgently needed some help and took a 3-week course.  It was real fun and helped me a lot with my communication skills in English and raised my IELTS score by a few points) I do not think that you particularly need it - in terms of English.  As far as I understand your level is quite advanced and will improve anyway during your studies in Bellerbys.

In the first term you will have preparation for IELTS together with your other lessons so you could take the exam to get the grade required for the university (usually 7- 7.5)  But on the other hand it’s a great opportunity to see the college in advance and meet people.  So it’s really up to you - what you want)

This is all from me for now. I would like to thank Zuzka again for her huge contribution for this post and wish her all the best in future!  I guess you will hear from me quite soon and I will update you on the exam results and the university entry.  Good luck everyone with their studies in the new term and take the most of your time in Bellerbys College!!!

The Last Goodbye

Posted by Ksenia

I turn the page
My story ends
I say goodbye to all my friends
I know it's getting late
Now the light is on my face
I changed the clocks back again
And ask forgiveness for my sins
Cause I don't know where I'll go
Well this is all that I really know.

This is a part of the song by Alex Band which is called Last Goodbye.  I heard it for the first time sitting in my neighbour’s room and watching her putting last bits and pieces in her luggage. 

Just a few days ago this room was alive – full of various books, clothes and other stuff all in the perfect disorder.  So many times we were there studying at the last moment before a test, trying to finish a homework due in tomorrow morning, having a Chinese meal from our favorite take-away (I even leant to use chopsticks!), lying on the bed at night and talking about everything except the fact that we have to get up at 7 am next morning – and now the room is empty, faceless and looks very sad.

I loved the song from the first word – that was exactly what was on my mind at the moment.  Just in a few days our life has changed and nobody knows what is going to happen next.  But in this post I don’t want to think about future – I want to say goodbye to the past.

Firstly, I want to thank everyone in Bellerbys College.  This is the place that turned me into who I am.  Obviously I am quite different now from the girl that walked in the old reception of the college nearly 3 years ago.

 1st May Ball  Year 2  & year 3!

Now I can speak some English (hopefully!), I know what I want to do in future (you are probably already tired to read how fascinating is science and my favorite biochemistry), I’ve met people from all round the world which shaped my opinion about many issues, I’ve made so many great friends that I am even a bit scared to be so lucky, I learned so many new lessons – not only concerning my studies – and well, I guess I grew up ( do not worry, only a little bit!).

It’s hard to mention everyone who made all those things possible and I perfectly understand that I won’t be able to write well enough to express how grateful I am.  So I will just mention a few names.

Mr. Corcut – the head of A-Level department – an extra-busy person who always managed to find time to speak with me (and everyone else who needed him), advise what to do when I wasn’t too sure myself or just to say a few encouraging words.  He always seemed to be a person who knows all the answers – you only have to ask. 

I guess the whole operation of our college will be impossible without Paula Pocock – everybody knows that we can trust her completely – she is the one to help us with the UCAS application, announce the exam result, advise what to do with them and take care of all the important documents. It helps so much when you have someone to rely on!

My studies were, of course, the goal and the main reason for my stay in the UK.  My teachers in Bellerbys were the most special people, who everyday tried to put some knowledge into my head, answer my endless questions, read my horrible handwriting – and still be cheerful and happy to chat after the class.

My personal tutor Dr Andrews who was at the same time my biology teacher was the person to help me with everything – from personal statement to past paper questions.

Dr Webber who taught me biology just for a few last months helped me enormously with the exam preparation - she was the one to read piles and piles of my essays and she was always making useful comments.

Dr Cheng – a magician who could make maths clear even to me (which seems to be a pretty impossible task).  Always so extraordinary kind and patient she was ready to spend long hours with us doing extra classes before exams, answering difficult ( for us) questions even during the holidays – she was always filling us with her powerful energy which made even the most lazy students hardworking.

Dr. Cameron who understood straight away that I have no idea what is physics about – and still did his best to explain to me at least something.  His jokes made me feel much less miserable as well.

Mr. Loft not only made me love chemistry as I do now but even enlarged our English vocabulary and cultural knowledge.  He was always trying to make us think on our own and find the solution independently and, if we got completely stuck, was always there for us. 

I also want to thank all those teachers who taught me during my GSCE and AS course – without them my further studies would be impossible.

Surprisingly I also became quite attached to the college building itself – it seems highly improbable because the building is very modern – made of glass and concrete and usually such kind of constructions cause me nothing but irritation.

 Cromwell Road  The new building at Billinton Way

At the beginning I just started to appreciate its good location just next to the train station, modern laboratories and IT rooms, space in the library.  But now I realize that it is more then just this.  The round tables and white chairs where we always used to sit with girls and drink coffee, classrooms – each associated with a particular subject or teacher, the beautiful view on the town from the 3rd floor, the lift where we had lots of funny little conversations, the exam hall – place of big happiness and big misery during The May Ball and examinations respectively… Every single corner of the building is linked in my mind with some memories or people.

There was one more thing I found very hard to say goodbye to – Brighton & Hove, the place that was my home for 3 years.  When I went to the seafront on my last day I did not feel anything.  Well, of course I enjoyed the sunshine, light wind, the beach, the views on the town and the Pier but it did not feel like the end.  It seemed that tomorrow I will be there again and, even if I go, I will come back, come back to Brighton.  And everything will be like it used to be.

I think that I still did not completely realise what happened and probably this understanding will come later – when I will come back to the UK, but not to Brighton.  I know that I will always be able to catch a train at London Victoria and be back to the seafront and college, eat my favorite ice-cream, say hello to all the teachers and my host mum.  But then I will only be a visitor.  All of this might seem a bit sad but actually it’s not.  When I am writing those lines I am smiling.  Yes, now its time to move on, but the happiness that was given to me by Brighton, my college, my dear friends will always be with me.  Together with all the experiences, thoughts, people I’ve met and the various things that happened over those three years.  Because there are in my memory.

 Who I was  ...and who I am now!