Yuanyuan Wang

Yuanyuan Wang studied Applied Chemistry at the Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology (NUIST) before making the most of our 4+1 agreement to join us for her master's degree. She loved it so much she decided to stay, and has now completed her PhD.

“My undergraduate supervisor recommended Reading to me as she is a Reading graduate and enjoyed it here very much!

"The main reason I stayed for my PhD was that I really enjoyed my master's and my supervisor was enthusiastic about me continuing here. My PhD concerned soil analysis – specifically heavy metals in polluted areas.”

“At the beginning of my master's degree I realised I would have a lot more independence. I could decide what subjects to study, what to do and how to do it.

"My supervisor at Reading was always ready to give me guidance and ensured that I was working effectively. In China, the supervisor would have told me exactly what to do next and I would have just followed his advice.”

“I overcame this by trying to communicate with other people. When I was experimenting in the lab, I would always try to chat with members of staff.

"They were very kind and talked with me too, which really helped improve my communication skills. Overall, they made me feel extremely supported.”

“The Doctoral and Researcher College was really good because they ran lots of courses that gave me ideas. For example, I was able to learn how to write a good CV and cover letter. I think this was really important for me.

"I also used the University for advice about my visa. Overall, the careers guidance I got at Reading was very important.”

Yuanyuan was accepted onto the doctorate extension scheme, meaning she could work in the UK for a further 12 months, and is confident about her career prospects.

“I think the PhD will help me to find a job very easily in China if I go back. Another Chinese PhD graduate I know has been able to find a number of positions.”

Learn more about master's study in our Department