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UDA  NEWS

HEAR FROM STEVIE THIRAWIT, ONE OF OUR ORIGINAL UDA UNIVERSITY OF CHESTER STUDENT-ATHLETES!

8/22/2022

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Stevie is currently completing his Masters in Chester via an online option. He has successfully applied for his graduate visa and intends to live in Chester for the foreseeable future.
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Stevie is currently completing his Masters in Chester via an online option. He has successfully applied for his graduate visa and intends to live in Chester for the foreseeable future.

"​As one of the first intake of UDA players to come to Chester it was a scary and risky decision. But after going through the 4 years I can honestly say that the risk was worth it. 

I graduated with my BS(c) Honors in Psychology combined with Sport and Exercise Science and then continued my education studying a Masters in Communications and Behavioral Analysis.

As well as the educational factor being successful, I also saw a huge improvement in my footballing ability. This is due to the exceptional coaching staff that coach at the highest level. We are also exposed to different levels of football to enhance our development.

I want take the time to thank all the UDA staff for making my footballing time in Chester enjoyable (Joel, Macca, Graham, Jared, Craig, Nathan. And Rich) I also want to thank Gaynor for making the transition to Chester and the transition to life after UDA easier cause without her we would be truly lost."
~ Stevie Thirawit
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IN THEIR WORDS: Reed Johnson

7/15/2022

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Reed is coming back for his second year when he returns in September and is studying Software Engineering. 

In his words:

“In my years of playing competitive soccer, UDA has given me a new and unique academy experience. 

It can be challenging balancing studies and  training but the coaching staff have aided in solving that issue with multiple training sessions per day. 

Another challenge posed by the squad was the push to become better, to be on the same or greater level than your peers and seniors which i thought was critical to making our two squads competitive and overall better each day. 

Pursuing a degree while able to be competitive with UDA has been one of my best made decisions.”
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Thanksgiving Tour Webinar April 24

3/23/2022

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Wondering what it's like to be part of UDA Soccer at the University of Chester? Join our webinar on April 24 to find out all about our Thanksgiving Tour coming up November 22-29, 2022!
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FINDING THE RIGHT ACADEMY FOR YOU

2/24/2022

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We offer a range of different opportunities for students because we know one-size doesn't fit all, so why should a university experience?

It is well documented that presently, US collegiate soccer with its limited season and oversized rosters means little true development opportunities for many talented players, restricting student’s optimal development.

​Across all our Academies, our goals remains the same, to provide the world's best integration of university education and football experience so students can reach their potential in the classroom and on the field. ​
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On both sides of the pond, our Academy locations allow every student the opportunity to study, live, and thrive.​

​HERE'S A BREAKDOWN OF EACH UNIVERSITY

As well as what you can expect, to help you determine if this is a good fit for you. ​

THE UNIVERSITY OF GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Located in Gloucestershire, England, the University of Gloucestershire is considered the UK’s most sustainable university (People and Planet League 2019). Across three specialized campuses, Gloucestershire is home to over 10,000 students, over 80 competitive sports, clubs, and societies, with over 4,000 placements and internships completed by students. Set in the idyllic countryside with close proximity to the iconic Cotswolds and Shakespeare Country, Gloucestershire offers the best of a small city with the beauty of England's green and pleasant lands. ​
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​The University of Gloucestershire
 is a great place for sport, with excellent links to the Football Association and regional teams and sporting organization. Set in the idyllic countryside with close proximity to the iconic Cotswolds and Shakespeare Country, Gloucestershire offers the best of a small city with the beauty of England's green and pleasant lands. ​

​THE UNIVERSITY OF CHESTER

The University of Chester is home to 20,000 students from 130 different countries, with over 300 courses offered across 30 programs. While studying in the UK you will be able to earn your undergraduate degree in just three years. Most undergraduate degrees include a five-week work placement in your second year anywhere in the world! ​
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Located in the iconic City of Chester, one of the UK’s best cities for student life and best place to live (Hot Housing Index 2015), the fifth prettiest city in Europe (USA Today 2013), and sixth-best city in the UK (Telegraph Travel Awards 2014). Chester is also ranked second safest city-based university in the region (The Complete University Guide 2015). ​
The University of Chester aims to support and develop global citizens. Offering over 300 degree options across three specialized campuses, UoC has academic opportunities for everyone. Focusing on quality, most degree programs take a duration of three years to complete. In addition to its unique culture, Chester prides itself on offering a variety of student support options. From advice to personal guidance, the University wants all students to have a memorable experience during their course of study.

​NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY 

The UDA-US Academy follows the success and demand of the UDA-UK Academies located in Chester and Gloucestershire, England. The UDA-US Academy is open to students from around the world seeking to further their soccer development through multiple pathways, while studying at NMSU. ​
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​All students will be fully integrated into the life of NMSU academically, athletically, socially, and culturally. The UDA program is based in American’s beautiful Southwest, Las Cruces, New Mexico, which offers year-round playing in a competitive schedule of games, tournaments, and league play. In addition to the NM year-round climate, Las Cruces offers outstanding outdoor recreation activities for those seeking an outdoor lifestyle. The campus at NMSU is home to over 11,000 students offering a diverse, vibrant campus culture. ​

Even with a lot of great options, determining what may be a good fit for you isn't always easy. Know that you don't have to do any of this alone. We strongly encourage you to reach out to Recruitment Director, Seamus Reilly with SReilly@udauk.org or +1 614-421-8084 with any questions.

​If you're interested in any particular academy, the best way to learn more is to attend a recruitment event. If you're unable to attend in-person, we recommend signing up for an online information session where we will answer all of your burning questions about a UDA Academy.

If a UK Academy specifically interests you, we recommend checking out the degree courses offered at Chester and Gloucestershire to get an understanding of what program might be the best fit for you.
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Insight From An International Student

10/27/2021

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Hear from our Journalism Intern, Bijeta, about her experience as an international student. She shares what she's learned along the way so that you can gain insight into the student experience while parents can get an understanding of what their children may be involved in when away from home.
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What was it like for your parents when you left to study?

They coped better with me leaving because they were more prepared; I was the second one to leave home, so they knew what to expect then. My sister had left for the U.S. a year ago, which was difficult for the entire family but especially our mom. One time, she cried when we bought some avocados and my sister — who loves avocados — wasn’t there to enjoy it with us. She was more composed when I left, but she once mentioned that she intentionally keeps herself busy to cope with our absence. Although my parents both admit that they miss us often, they have accepted that we will not be around all the time.

How do you keep in touch, and how often?

We keep in touch through video calls and texts mainly via Messenger. The frequency of our calls depends on how busy everyone is, but I text them at least once every two days to let them know I’m doing okay, which they appreciate. I also let them know if I’m busy or traveling so that they don’t have to worry about my lack of communication. We usually call once or twice a week now, but we used to talk more often when I first left home.

TIP: I recommend keeping in touch with your family at least a few times a week, just to let them know you're thinking about them. It doesn't have to be anything major, it could just be a weather update, or what you're working on in a certain course.

Do your parents worry about you? what do you do to ease their concerns?

They don’t worry about me as much as they used to anymore, because they now understand that I will be fine on my own. However, my mom still gets concerned if I don’t reply to her messages or don’t respond as often, so I make sure that I talk to them and tell them about my life as much as I can. A lot of my friends are also international students and I have witnessed varied levels of concerns from parents.

TIP: The best thing for us as students to do would be to understand our guardians, communicate with them, and keep them updated on our lives to let them know how we are doing.

My parents also tell me that keeping busy has helped them not worry so much about us. My mom recently joined a university to get her Master’s degree, and she often tells me that this has been the perfect time for her to pursue education. 

​TIP: We have a family group chat where we keep everybody updated on what is happening here as well as back home, so I think the best way to ease concerns for everyone is to keep in touch with family and keep yourself occupied.

How often do you go home?

I try to go home once every year, but that wasn’t possible due to the pandemic. I’m fortunate because the longest I have not been home is a year and a half, but I know that some of my international friends have not been home for much longer.
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How do you deal with being away from home?

It was difficult at first — I missed the comfort of home, my family, the food...everything. Being in a new environment was not easy, especially since I could not fly back home for months. But I started making friends here and kept myself busy. I started working so I was alright after a couple of months. I still miss home and my family, but I also appreciate my life here.

TIP: Find something to keep yourself busy — Whether that’s a new hobby or a campus club, having something to do can be the best way to combat homesickness or when missing a loved one. ​

Traveling to a new location is stressful for everybody, which is why as part of the UDA family, we make sure our students receive assistance while settling into a new place. From helping with travel arrangements, banking, to setting up phone plans, we help make sure your studies go as smoothly as possible. Learn about our staff and how we assist our students here. 

​If you have any questions about the application process, travel plans, or life at your university, please contact us.
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Staying connected: advice for international students and families

10/27/2021

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Moving to a new location to complete university can be exciting, but also intimidating. Even seeing your child explore a different part of the world or country is something to look forward to, but it’s impossible not to worry about them or your family far from home.

If you are in the process of sending your child off to study abroad in the UK, are a few states away, or are even a student living abroad or away from home, we have compiled some resources for you.

Traveling to a new location is stressful for everybody, which is why as part of the UDA family, we make sure our students receive assistance while settling into a new place. From helping with travel arrangements, banking, to setting up phone plans, we make sure your studies go as smoothly as possible. We’re here to support you! Learn about our staff and how we assist our students. 

When you’re away from home it can be hard to know how to stay connected with family and friends.

Here's some of our best advice:
Decide on a time

Once your schedules are stable, decide on a time that works for everybody to communicate. Decide on your method of communication — is it best to video chat, or call?

Keep one another in the loop

Share pictures and videos of your lives. Whether you’re a parent at home or a student at university, your family members want to know what you’re up to. These could be photos of your latest grocery store run, or your favorite hike — either way, they want to see it! ​

When life is busy, let your family know

It’s no surprise that this could happen at any moment. If you’re too busy to stick to your schedule of calling or video chatting, try and send each other a quick text — it goes a long way! ​

Keep yourself busy

Students: Studying at university is a great opportunity to explore a new location while learning, so make the most of it! Go explore a new park or grab dinner at that place you’ve always wanted to try. If you’re looking for things to do in Chester, here’s a guide for your weekend. 

Parents: This may be one of the few times you get to experience life without an extra person at home. Take this time to pursue things you have wanted to try, even if it is just resting! ​

If you have any questions about the application process, travel plans, or life at your university, please contact us.
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Taking On A New Academic Year

9/21/2021

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Welcome to a new academic year! We are thrilled to be welcoming so many students from around the world to the UDA family. We are excited to see what our students will accomplish this term and we can't wait to share those successes with you!

As students begin to delve into the semester, they might need some advice along the way. Our support staff on both sides of the pond are here to answer all questions from how to set up a phone plan to the best ways to balance academic and social life. "[We] work directly with students to learn and understand their individual needs. "We view students as people who are working to achieve their goals, and we are here to help them in doing so. The personal approach we take helps us get to know each student so that we can best provide them resources and guidance in studying and living in the UK," stated Justin Karrenberg, Head of Student Recruitment and Advising. ​
As our second and third year students are beginning to consider where their degree can take them, that's where we come in! Our Dream Maker Program allows second and third year students to connect with companies that match their skills and aspirations in order to aid them in discovering their passions. 

Our Dream Maker Program allows second and third year students to develop a professional portfolio that showcases their academic interests, passions, and skills. We then share this portfolio with companies that match the student's skills and aspirations in order to aid them in discovering a future career. We want to ensure that our graduating students discover a field they are interested in that then leads to a purposeful life. ​
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While talk of next career steps can be daunting, our partner career coach, Nadia Ibrahim-Taney of Beyond Discovery Coaching makes navigating and leveraging a university degree manageable. Nadia has first-hand personal knowledge and expertise of how to navigate a British degree in the US job market and is here to help our UDA students thrive.
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Before the new academic year gets into full swing, We'd also like to welcome our student-athletes who have returned to their on-campus abodes or those who are just joining a UDA program and are beginning their studies and training at New Mexico State University, the University of Chester and the University of Gloucestershire. 

Get To Know Some Of Our Players!

As our Academy students are settling in, we wanted to take the opportunity to get to know some of players on a more personal level!
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Meet Carlos Ramirez from Greeley, Colorado who will be joining the New Mexico State University Academy. 
Do you have any hobbies?
Playing video games, working out, and listening to music.

Favorite pro team/player?
My favorite player is Ronaldo.

Dream job?
Being able to be a pro-soccer player, or traveling and getting to study and/or help those in other cultures.

Favorite place you've ever  visited?
My favorite place I’ve visited was Las Vegas, Nevada. Lots of attractions!
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If you could event a holiday, what would you pick?
I would invent a traditions holiday where you celebrate and get to show off your culture and traditions.
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Meet Joshua Edlemann from Michigan who will be joining the University of Gloucestershire Academy. 
Do you have any hobbies?
I love to walk in the forest and enjoy the outdoors.

Favorite pro team/player?
My favorite team is FC Bayern Munich

Favorite place you've ever visited?
My favorite place I've visited was Stuttgart, Germany

Dream Job?
My dream job is to work for Audi.

If you could event a holiday, what would you pick?
National bacon day!
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Meet Reed Johnson who will be joining the University of Chester Academy.
Do you have any hobbies?
I love to cook when I can as well as find and try all sorts of restaurants and cuisines.

Favorite pro team/player?
Professional team has to be Manchester United and Wayne Rooney. 

Favorite place you've ever visited?
Favorite place I've ever visited would be the Seychelles. 

Dream Job?
Dream Job would either be a lead project manager in any of the top software companies in Europe or back in the US. 

If you could event a holiday, what would you pick?
A mini holiday in the winter to go out and celebrate with friends and family after Christmas and before New Years. 

Want To Learn More?

View what each of our soccer academies have to offer.
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Things to do in chester!

9/18/2021

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Immerse yourself in the history and the culture of the City of Chester during your time at the University! There are a lot of sights to see and do for everyone — whether you enjoy typical city life or want to immerse yourself in nature. Check out this guide for a wide range of activities in the Chester area!
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want to learn more?

Learn more about why you should study in the UK
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Introducing Student-athlete Jayson Phoebus

9/13/2021

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BUSINESS MAJOR AND SOCCER PLAYER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CHESTER FROM DISCOVERY BAY, CA
"Joining to UDA straight after high school was a big jump coming from a small town in California. I tried out for soccer in Phoenix, Arizona when I got an email about one of the trials. My mom and I decided this would be a great opportunity so we decided to drive 11 hours to Phoenix. 

I felt like those at UDA would take good care of me, and they did. My first year was amazing, and our best time on the pitch was the second year as everybody got better and we had some really good performances. 
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The situation during the pandemic was less than ideal, and almost all of us went home when COVID broke out last year. UDA was on course to win the Northwest when the season had to be cut short, which was a bummer. But the staff was really helpful in letting us know whether it was a good idea or not for us to go home. 

When we got back, we had a great couple months training but we had to wrap up again around November. The worst lockdown has been the third one, this January to March because we couldn't get to play — I have not seen a lot of my teammates since November. But we have now started training again so it's great to see my teammates."
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Introducing head of player support

9/13/2021

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Meet Gaynor Crompton,
​head of player support

"I work at UDA as the Head of Player Support. It has many strands by focuses on taking care of the boys and ensuring they have any support that is needed whilst they are in the UK — this can be in respect of personal, emotional, financial, academic and health issues, to name just a few. The student athletes are able to contact me at any time with issues or questions they have.

I also have an on-site presence at training sessions and accompany them to the majority of their games. When I am on the campus, I run one-on-one sessions where players can drop in for a chat. I also send out invitations for meetings with any of the boys who I feel need support. I do my best to keep them on track and address anything of concern if I become aware of any lack of engagement. The parents also have my contact details and they are able to contact me to discuss any issues or concerns. 
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My favorite part of the job is being part of such a fantastic team. The staff at UDA show constant professionalism and work together to provide the boys with the best possible training and experience they can whilst in the UK. The UDA boys are such a great group to work with, the boys are always polite, respectful, and a joy to be around. I enjoy watching the boys develop and grow during their experience at UDA and being part of that journey and helping them to navigate through is very rewarding. 
I was lucky enough to be asked to become involved with UDA as I have worked with Joel Roberts for 13 years whilst at the College. Joel asked me initially whether I would help to set up the UDA program in the UK and assist with the safeguarding and welfare of the boys. If I'm being honest, I thought that this was a role that I would do for 12 months and then pass onto someone else. However, I feel in love working on the program, being around the boys and liaising with the families. The team in the UK are also a joy to work with so I have stayed and I hope to do so for the foreseeable future!
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