Stefani's story
Stefani's life began in one room in Moscow, surrounded by a rich artistic culture fueled by her family's love of theatre. Trading in her native Russian and childhood Spanish for English, she found a welcoming community of international students. The support of fellow students, especially another student mum like herself, empowered her. Motivated by her daughter and a newfound love of media and marketing, Stephanie is building a bright future in London, a city that mirrors the vast potential she now sees in herself. She is, like the city itself, a vibrant mix of cultures and experiences.
My father is an opera singer. We used to live in one room. When my father played the piano, it was so loud that you can't really escape it! It has had an impact on me. For example, now when I have my own room, I feel alone. My childhood was pretty good. I remember playing with the snow a lot. When it’s too cold to open windows, but when you do, everything is white. I miss that.
Back at home I was studying opera. During my studies I found that directing is also what I’m interested in. I could be a creative behind the scene.
I came here through an agency who suggested London Met because they support international students. It's a very supportive university and I have made many good friends.
London Met gave me a better understanding of myself. The lecturers, the students, all my surroundings here. They all helped me to understand my strengths, my weaknesses, and they give me a fresh look on what kind of opportunities I have. I’ve met a lot of interesting people who inspire me and have helped me through this journey.
I studied Film and TV production in my first year, but I found it wasn’t right for me. I changed to Media and Marketing, and I really love it. In the end of my second year I thought I had a lack of experience, so I decided to create these opportunities for myself. I ended up creating a television station at the University. Currently, we are doing a lot of commercials for charities in the neighbourhood and some reportage.
My daughter is my biggest motivator. I met another student mum here, and we support each other. My first year of being a mum, at the same time being a student, trying to understand what happened with you, your body and your life, was challenging. But I found that experience really helpful for me to develop my personality and to gain a lot of new skills like time management. I became a different person.
You are not alone as an international student – I have friends from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Russia – it's really cool. It definitely opens your mind, sharing the culture, and you can feel the world. London's got a diversity that you can truly see; there is everyone from everywhere.
"You are not alone as an international student – I have friends from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Russia – it’s really cool. It definitely opens your mind, sharing the culture, and you can feel the world."
Read more about our Media and Marketing BA.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)