Nationality
British
Qualification
Archaeology Honours
Bio
Monica enjoys using her love of all things travel and culture related when writing articles for Hotcourses Abroad. She hopes her enthusiasm for the subject matter helps students as they take their first steps on their international study adventure. When she’s not creating or editing written content for work, Monica can usually be found writing creatively or with her nose in a book.
A master’s thesis is a substantial scholarly paper submitted as part of many master’s degree programmes. It allows students to demonstrate their research abilities and depth of understanding in their chosen field. Because of the level of research and writing involved, the thesis often contributes significantly to the final grade, so it’s important to approach it carefully. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of a master’s thesis, why it
Getting a postgraduate degree will always take your knowledge to new heights, offering you the chance to specialise or diversify. Before you apply for a course, though, you should be sure that it is the right kind for you. In this article, we'll help you understand the key differences between a master’s degree and a PhD, and determine which type of postgraduate degree is best for your goals. What is a master’s degree? A master’s
Taking the IELTS exam is a big step on the way to study abroad success, and we know this can be daunting. With so much depending on this multi-part test, performing well may feel like a big challenge. However, millions of people use it to fulfil their international ambitions each year – and you can too. To help, we've put together a thorough list of IELTS tips, from preparation to reading, writing, listening and speaking. General IELTS preparation
Cyber security and software engineering are two closely connected but distinct fields of work in the information technology sector. While both involve working closely with technology and a deep understanding of coding, they serve different purposes and offer different professional paths. As the technology sector continues to boom, analysts have projected a global increase in IT spending of almost 10 per cent in 2025 alone ( Deloitte,
If you plan to study abroad, it’s important to understand the levels of study available. From foundation to undergraduate and postgraduate, different study levels have different academic requirements and can bring different career opportunities after graduation. Combined with the fact that they vary around the world, we know that it can all seem complicated. To help, our guide sets out how different levels of study work. Levels of study by
If you hope to study a medical degree in Ireland, you may need to sit the HPAT exam. This computer-based admissions test is used by all medical schools in Ireland , and has been designed to ensure applicants have the correct skillset for a medical career. In this article, we provide all the details you need to understand and prepare for the HPAT exam. Table of contents: What is the HPAT? Who needs to
When you think of Houston, you almost certainly think of the Texan heat or NASA’s famous Space Centre. But there is so much more to this vibrant, diverse city. If you dream of living in the USA, Houston is definitely a study destination to consider. With a great selection of universities, a practically unrivalled arts and culture scene and famously low prices, it’s no wonder it has a constantly growing international community.
The third largest city in Texas, with its lively cultural scene and famously modern vibe, Dallas offers a fabulously diverse and exciting way of life. Home to several universities, if you dream of studying the USA, Dallas is a great, and affordable option to consider. What is Dallas like? Location and demographics Dallas is the main urban center of northern Texas, in the USA’s Deep South.
San Diego is one of the USA’s top spots for sun, sea and surf. With its colourful architecture and iconic skyscrapers, it immediately stands out. A welcoming and diverse city with a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere, San Diego is home to a number of great universities, making it a popular spot for international students wanting to live in the USA. What is San Diego like? Location and demographics
The capital of the US state of Georgia, Atlanta is a hub of history and culture mixed with spectacular scenery and modern architecture. With the tenth largest economy in the USA, this city is as inspiring as it is vibrant. With several universities and a great student scene, Atlanta certainly has a lot to offer international students with a dream of living in the USA. What is Atlanta like? Location and
As the USA’s historic capital, the vibrant and beautiful city of Washington DC is the American dream for many people. With a number of excellent universities as well as an exemplary culture and entertainment scene, the city is undoubtedly a top study destination. So if you are hoping to study in the USA, read on to find out more about what life could be like in the iconic Washington DC. What is Washington DC like?
With its stunning architecture and world-famous urban views, it’s easy to forget that Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was once one of the USA’s centers of industry. These days, its sports and cultural attractions make Pittsburgh an attractive choice for international students. And with a number of top universities in the area, if you’re hoping to live in the USA, we think this is a city well worth considering. What is Pittsburgh like?
Known as Charm City, for its many hidden gems of culture and heritage, if you’re hoping to study in the USA, Baltimore is certainly somewhere to consider. The birthplace of the country’s national anthem The Star-Spangled Banner, the city has played a significant role in America’s history. If you dream of an American study adventure, Baltimore has it all: universities, coastline, culture and entertainment. Read on to find out more.
The exciting and adventurous capital of Colorado, Denver is known as the Mile High City due to its altitude of exactly one mile (1.6kms) above sea level. Here you’ll find a selection of great universities plus many activities to pass the time. So, if you’re looking for a study experience with a difference, you’ll definitely want to consider living in Denver. What is Denver like? Location and demographics
One of the USA’s most glamourous cities, it will come as no surprise that studying in Miami is a top choice for many prospective international students. With its world-famous nightlife, spectacular beaches and short distance to the Caribbean, Miami is a city that has it all. Read on to find out more about this vibrant hub of culture and diversity. What is Miami like? Location and demographics
One of the USA’s most northerly cities, Seattle is known for its breath-taking scenery and its skyline. With an internationally famous music scene, a booming tech industry and a deep love of sports, if you are hoping to study in the USA, Seattle will give you the student experience of a lifetime. What is Seattle like? Location and demographics Situated in Washington state, only a short drive from the border
On Hollywood’s doorstep, Los Angeles (or L.A.) is a thriving beach city and a place where students live side by side with the rich and famous. With a dynamic culture and entertainment scene, the city has something for everyone. If you’re hoping to study in the USA, Los Angeles is undeniably one of the most exciting study destinations ever. Packed with things for students to do, this vibrant city will have all your friends from home wanting to visit.
The largest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth largest in the whole of the USA, Philadelphia (or Philly as it is often known) is renowned for being a vibrant hub of diversity and entertainment. With an Ivy League university and the third largest student population on the East Coast, if you dream of studying in the USA, Philadelphia is a great option to make sure you have the experience of a lifetime. What is Philadelphia like? Location and
Leicester (pronounced Less-ter) is one of Britain’s most historic university cities. With traditional British architecture and green, leafy parks, this multicultural study destination is both picturesque and fascinating. Packed with history, culture, and all-important venues to ensure unbeatable student nightlife, Leicester is a great option for anyone hoping to study in the UK. What is Leicester like? Location and demographics
Possibly one of the most famous university cities in the world, it’s understandable if you dream of studying in Cambridge. Home to an immensely prestigious university, its iconic architecture and student-oriented atmosphere certainly make it an attractive study destination. Cambridge isn’t your stereotypical urban city. Often called the cycling capital of the UK, the city is home to parkland, the picturesque River Cam, and even cows. What is
Newcastle, also known as Newcastle upon Tyne, is a British city famous for its nightlife, history and northern charm. Situated in the far north of England, this city marks the easterly end of Hadrian’s Wall, once the furthest boundary of the Roman empire. If you’re a prospective student with dreams of living in the UK, Newcastle is sure to tick the right boxes. This energetic university city is well-known across the country for its thriving
One of the UK’s less well-known university cities, living in Swansea should definitely be a consideration if you’re looking for a study destination slightly different from the typical urban metropolis. Swansea is a city embedded in history and surrounded by natural beauty. Deeply proud of its own culture and heritage, it’s an appealing option for students looking for a great work-life balance in a safe, exciting city. What is
Known as ‘The Outdoor City’, the vibrant northern hub of Sheffield takes great pride in being the UK’s greenest city. This is a place that prides itself in having a little bit of something to suit every one and as a result, it's lively day and night. Considered the safest large city in the country, Sheffield is a true hub of friendly charm. If you’re hoping to study in the UK, this is definitely a destination to consider. What is
Leeds is a university city well-known for its vibrant entertainment scene and beautiful surroundings. With festivals, sports and music options everywhere you look, you’d struggle to feel bored in this energetic hub of culture. A popular city with domestic and international students alike, Leeds is well worth a visit. And if you’re hoping to live in the UK, this is definitely a study destination to consider. What is Leeds like?
