Coming to the University of Westminster has been both an exciting and transformative step in my life. I grew up in Taiwan, and after some years of study and life experience, I decided to pursue my undergraduate degree in Psychology in London. This is not my first time living here – I completed a foundation programme a few years ago – but returning now as a full-time university student feels very different. This time, I have a clearer sense of direction and purpose, and I see the city through a new perspective.
My first impressions of the University of Westminster have been very positive. From the very first week, I noticed how open and welcoming both staff and students are. I enjoy walking to campus and discovering the different buildings in central London. The city itself feels alive with opportunities — full of culture, conversation, arts, and people from all over the world, and not least of all, my favourite highlight: musicals. It can be challenging to adjust to a new environment, but these challenges also make the experience so rewarding. I can see how each challenge helps me grow bit by bit, year by year, and even day by day.
On a personal level, I feel especially connected to DEN’s values. My grandparents have been devoted members of Rotary for almost four decades, even before I was born. Growing up, I watched how much they valued building connections, engaging with communities, and learning from people across the world. I think this is what keeps them humble, which is a quality I deeply admire and value. Even though my parents were less involved in this kind of work, I was inspired by my grandparents’ commitment. I see DEN as a similar opportunity: a place where I can make connections, learn new things, contribute to meaningful projects, and take steps toward becoming more globally engaged.
Tiffany Yu