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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!”