July 2018

Mariam Krayem

MA Early Childhood Education 2017

1.  Tell us about yourself. 

I am Mariam Krayem, I am family-oriented; I have three sisters and two brothers. I am a 23 years old and I love travelling, learning about different cultures and languages! I am a sociable person, photographer, and a foodie.

After completing my BA in Early Childhood Education at the Lebanese American University (LAU), I joined Anglia Ruskin University in 2015 to complete my MA in the same major and studied in Chelmsford Campus (Class of 2017).

2.  What is your fondest memory at Anglia Ruskin University?

Graduation day remains my fondest memory at Anglia Ruskin, when I was surrounded by my proud parents and siblings, friends, and lecturers.  

3.  What advice would you give to current students as they're preparing to graduate? 

Be proud of your achievement; you did it! You will face ups and downs in life, but try to look at the brighter side. Plan your future the way you want it and make it happen! Don’t forget to keep Anglia Ruskin carried with you wherever you go! #ARUProud 

4.  What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst you were studying?

I did not try to take part at ARU before, being a student ambassador for example but I wish I have done that earlier because it helped me enjoy my time more when I need a break from studying and to meet new people.

5.  How did your time at Anglia Ruskin help you? 

I learnt how to accommodate living independently in a new country; with the help of the university’s staff, students, and various events. This helped me meet new people and getting to know different cultures. Besides, it was a great chance to explore Europe whenever I had the chance! 

6.  What did you love about your chosen course?

Before coming here, I watched a video of my course leader (@Dr. Paulette Luff) describing the Early Childhood Education course at ARU and I really got inspired by her. So coming here and meeting her and the other lecturers, students, and people from different backgrounds and experiences exceeded my expectations. I have learned so much about that specific area of speciality that I could not find elsewhere, and the lecturers were very supportive.

The tutorials were of great help; the lecturers made us all cooperate during and after classes. At the end of the course, as we were doing the major project in summer and the university was slightly empty, the lecturers decided to have a writing group so that we meet once fortnightly. For us, this idea was great, since it made everyone come together, exchange ideas, and provide useful feedback to one another.

7.  What would you tell someone thinking of studying at ARU? 

The most important thing is to go out there! Take every opportunity to meet new people, make new friends, and leave a nice trace. 

8.  In one word how would you describe Anglia Ruskin?

Diverse.

9.  Who was the biggest influence on your career?

My family and lecturers.

10.  What accomplishment are you most proud of?

Knowing about the different approaches used in European countries after living in Lebanon and doing my undergraduate there. 

11.  What advice would you give your younger self?

To face new challenges with a positive attitude.

12.  What drives you?

Food, of course! Oh and my family’s support.

13.  What’s next?

PhD!