"Do you have football in America?"

So with my first week of lectures over, I thought I should update the blog with some insights about life and learning in England.

I have 6 modules this semester, a module is the same as a class in America. 4 of the modules consist of two 1 hour lectures plus one 1 hour tutorial session.  One module has two 1 hour lectures and one 2 hour tutorial, and the remaining module is just one 2 hour lecture.  This semester I am taking: Computational Systems, Human-Computer Interaction, Operating Systems, Professional & Legal Issues, Software Analysis & Design, and Theory of Computing.  Even though most people would say that these modules are crazy and I am crazy for taking them, I really enjoy the lectures.  Every professor knows what they are talking about, and they really care about the material that they are teaching us.  You don't feel that going to a lecture is a waste of time.  We've all felt the feeling that the professor doesn't give a crap about you, the class, or the material that they are presenting. It makes you not want to go to class, especially if you have better things to do; such as sleep.  But I don't feel that way here, I feel that everything we learn is important and that it will undoubtedly help me in the future.  


In the UK system of education, a lot of weight is put on "the Exam" which is given at the end of every module.  Most modules break down the marks by 70% exam, and 30 % coursework.  The coursework is usually an assignment given before the 9th week of the semester.  It is a project that usually involves some deep understanding of the material.  It is a good complement to the exam if you aren't good at taking exams.  The passing level for exams at Soton is 40%.  For my program I believe I need to get above 57% on average for the year, 59% next year.  1st class is above 69.5%, which is what I will be shooting for, besides looking good, and being able to brag about it, the school offers scholarships for students in the 1st class.  


In terms of my experiences at Soton, it is a great place to be and I love it here.  I have made a lot of really good friends and only a few enemies (just kidding).  I'm already involved in a number of clubs and societies on campus, which is always a good way to meet people. 


I love my flatmates and my blockmates.  We are all having a blast and getting along great.

I am off to Computational Systems in just a few minutes (it is 3 hours straight) so I will keep this post short.

Peace!