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From the Seychelles to KMS on a government scholarship
First year Economics and HRM student Vanessa Leon beat off fierce competition to secure a full Seychelles Government Scholarship to study at Keele Management School .
The Changing Labour Relations in Globalised China , Workshop led by HRM Lecturer Dr Xuebing ( Jack ) Cao
The Workshop marked the successful completion of the Leverhulme International Network project ‘ Collective wage determination and labour relations in globalised China ’. This £ 105,000 project offered exceptional opportunities for colleagues from the UK and China to examine the significant development of China ’ s labour relations in the context of globalisation and international integration . The workshop delegates were welcomed by Professor David Amigoni , Pro-Vice Chancellor on Research and Enterprise at Keele and Professor Kurt Allman , Director of KMS . The keynote speech ‘ The emerging industrial relations of China ’ was delivered by Professor William Brown , University of Cambridge .
The workshop provided a timely summary and conclusion of the research and attracted university scholars , postgraduate researchers and government officials from both Britain and China . Due to high demand the workshop was extended to a second day and despite the intensive schedule and extensive activities , participants fully enjoyed the event ‘ one of the most successful seminars I have ever attended ’ Andy Hodder , Birmingham University and ‘ inspirational and eye-opening ’ Dr Chen Ying , University of Bath .
The workshop emphasised the impact of this important project , consolidated Keele ’ s position as a major centre on industrial relations research and reinforced Keele ’ s international collaboration with some of the strategic partners in Chinese universities .
Vanessa Leon
Vanessa explained “ In order to be awarded a full government scholarship in the Seychelles you have to obtain at least 18 points , which is equivalent to 3 C ’ s , but in order to get the opportunity to study in the UK you need to get straight A ’ s , or at least 24 points , competition for scholarships is extremely high .
During my A levels I was awarded recommendation letters for my hard work and best performance in my subjects . Besides working hard academically , I was also active in extra curriculum activities and represented my school at national level .
Why did you choose Keele ?
Because of its location , I did not know what to expect being so far away from home and my first time in the UK , it was frightening . English not being my first language added to my nerves as I thought I wouldn ’ t be able to cope with the lectures .
However , my experience at Keele has been an extraordinary one as I found myself adapting better than I thought . The staff , the environment , the atmosphere and especially the support has made my journey easier . The Student Support Service was extremely helpful , especially in the beginning , with lots of activities to join in with .
Also , my Personal Tutor , Steve French has always been ready to help when I needed advice . All the staff and students at Keele have made me feel at home , especially Keele Management School staff with their welcoming smiles and approachable manner .
As the StAR ( Student Academic Representative ) for Economics , I have seen first-hand that Keele staff really do take student feedback into consideration .
My experience at Keele has really built my confidence and allowed me to step out of my comfort zone . This will help me in my future career as I now feel prepared to step into the world of work and take responsibility . Keele does not just give you a degree , it also shapes you to step up and take challenges . I would definitely recommend Keele to prospective students !”
Steve French added that “ It has been hugely enjoyable to teach and act as Vanessa ’ s personal tutor . She has adapted quickly to her first year of studies at Keele and is already producing excellent written work !”