Why I Chose Imperial College London

8.3
Verified Review (Out of 10)
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Academic
9.0
Accommodation
9.0
Faculty
10.0
Infrastructure
9.0
Social Life
7.0
Placement
6.0
Shaunak Joshi
Reviewed on Aug 7, 2024(Enrolled 2023)

I chose Imperial College London because it was my dream university, and the MSc Science Media Production course was exactly what I had been aiming for since my first year of undergrad. Even though I was accepted to other universities like UCL, University of Edinburgh, Manchester, and Sheffield, Imperial stood out because of its prestigious ranking as the 2nd best university in the world and its strong reputation with recruiters and companies. The program is unique and aligns perfectly with my career goals. Overall, my experience here has been fantastic—combining world-class teaching, a vibrant and diverse student body, and a prime location in central London makes it an ideal place for my studies and future aspirations.

Course Curriculum

9

The course curriculum and academics for the MSc Science Media Production at Imperial College London are top-notch. The syllabus is very updated and relevant, reflecting the latest advancements and trends in the field. The quality of the teachers is exceptional; for example, there was one instance where we were taught from a research paper published just two days before our lecture, which I found pretty amazing and a testament to Imperial's quality of education. Additionally, I gained valuable industry experience at BBC Studios as a Developmental Researcher for a science documentary series on Evolution during April and May.

Faculty

10

The faculty-to-student ratio for the course is approximately 8:1. The staff are highly experienced experts in their fields, with the majority holding PhDs. They are extremely approachable, treating us as friends and showing no ego. This openness allows students to share their views freely, fostering a respectful environment that values diverse opinions. Our cohort includes students from China, Italy, France, America, Paraguay, and Singapore, enriching our discussions. Two of my favorite professors, Robert Sternberg and Gareth Mitchell, teach my favorite modules and are incredibly insightful, experienced, and welcoming—qualities that are essential for me as an international student.

Campus Life

9

Campus Life is amazing with lot of clubs and events happening all year. They have all facilities available- Research facilities, libraries, wifi and sports. I am also part of their Photography club as I am really passionate about photography. There's a seminar organized in my department every Tuesday where all the people working in the industry are invited along with the alumnae. Seminars are really insightful, informative and keep us informed about what is happening in the industry.

Placement

6

Post-study placement and research opportunities for the MSc Science Media Production program at Imperial College London are supported through various forms of career assistance rather than direct placements like in India. The college helps students polish their CVs, cover letters, and interview skills. Due to the current recession in the UK and the challenges faced by the science media industry, including competition from OTT platforms like Netflix and Apple and advancements in AI, even experienced professionals are finding it difficult to secure jobs. However, there is optimism that the job market will improve by 2025. During April and May, I interned at BBC Studios' Science Unit as a developmental researcher for a science documentary series on evolution. My background in Zoology and Geology played a significant role in securing this position. The median starting salary for graduates is around £27,000 to £30,000.

Accommodation

Off Campus
9

It's one of Imperial's own student accommodations - Griffon Studios. It's a studio, so nothing has to be shared; everything is private. I pay around £1100 per month, and the services I'm getting with it are pretty great. There are no additional bills. Imperial is just 30 minutes away by bus. The accommodation is right next to Clapham Junction, which is great for connectivity.

Exams

- For admission to the MSc Science Media Production course at Imperial College London, you need a minimum IELTS score of 7.0. I scored 7.5. The application process also includes completing two aptitude assignments and doing an hour-long online interview with the professors. - CBSE - 10th: 8.4 CGPA; CBSE - 12th: 69% Pune University - BSc Zoology and Geology (UG): 8.83 CGPA and 9.69 CGPA - Requirements: Yes, I had to submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP), two Letters of Recommendation (LoRs), an updated CV, and two aptitude assignments. I also included my portfolio, showcasing my experience as a video editor, social media manager for a science magazine called Science Paradox, and a science communication intern at IISER Pune. Additionally, I completed around 25 certifications related to filmmaking and science communication, which highlighted my interest in the field. I had an hour-long interview with my professors where I discussed my knowledge, interests, and future aspirations in the science media industry. To ace such rounds, it's important to be a genuine candidate with a clear passion for the field and to ensure that your past experiences and achievements reflect that enthusiasm.

Fees

27,000£