Adam
Ado Sabari

What are your motivations for studying a postgraduate degree?

I wish to improve my career prospects, satisfy my passion in construction and fill the professional gap in my country by becoming expert through utilising resources available in the UK. I am aiming to expand my knowledge and skills that will make me a specialist and great force in driving technological progress.

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

NTU is among the top universities on the SI-UK list and I was impressed by the fact that about 90% of NTU research was rated ‘internationally excellent’ according to Research Excellence Framework. With its state-of-the-art equipment and research capacity, NTU is the best place to study. The course’s links to the construction industry will expose me to the real profession aligned with present-day engineering practices. It is the perfect environment to study as it inspires engineers to explore better multiskilled perspectives on the discipline.

Tell us about your experiences before studying at NTU.

I worked at China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) in Nigeria and later joined Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.

What recent projects have you worked on?

My research focus is on sustainability. In order to promote achieving the 2030 and 2050 target of United Nations SDGs, I am working on geopolymer concrete which has less carbon content compared to conventional concrete and this is in line with SDG No. 9 and 13.

What marks out of 10 would you give for course facilities and why?

I am enthusiastically giving 10/10, because the learning materials significantly improve my independent learning and research capacity. I highly appreciate the involvement of industry experts as visiting staff and inclusion of most recent development into the learning modules.

Name one thing that has surprised you about NTU?

The kind of love, respect and care the university staff and Nottingham Trent Students’ Union (NTSU) are showing to the students without discrimination is remarkable.

What do you think about the course staff, including lecturers, tutors, administrators and technical staff? How do they support your learning experience?

I call them a team of dedicated staff; they all have been very kind and encouraging. Working with the academic staff enhances my discipline-specific and research skills while interacting with the non-academic staff teaches me empathy.

What do you think makes NTU a top university?

NTU encourages diversity and has a range of student support services, world-class teaching facilities and available funding opportunities. I am currently studying under NTU funding – I am among the Commonwealth Shared Scholars of NTU.

How do you think NTU has changed you (or how you hope it will)?

Being the Academic Representative for my course, the experience is really helping me develop strong interpersonal skills and I believe that will make me a great leader and influencer in the future.

What advantages do you think having a postgraduate qualification will give you with regards to employment after graduation?

The transferable expertise I achieved during the course will help me deliver effectively anywhere I find myself working and will make me stand out in competitive job market. It will also open more job opportunities and networks.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying to NTU?

I would say it really is a great experience to join NTU to explore and unleash your potential. You can`t afford to miss this mind-blowing opportunity.

How would you promote your course to potential students in 10 words or fewer?

Opportunity to learn present-day practices in the world of construction.

What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

Peaceful, entertaining, diversity.

Where would you recommend visiting in Nottingham?

I would recommend visiting the green Highfields Park, the historic City of Caves, the Robin Hood Way and Sherwood Forest.

What’s next for you after NTU?

I wish to develop more professional skills by joining a construction firm and also further my studies by proceeding to PhD.

Has the employability team helped you plan for life beyond NTU?

The three ‘Steps to Success’ employability sessions I attended were helpful, including the mock assessment interview, the recruiter insights (Oracle) and the CIOB Novus lunch. I also got the chance to review my CV with the team.

Why did you want to study in the UK?

I am aiming to establish global network, utilise advanced learning resources and learn from world-class experts to gain knowledge that will enhance my career development.

How is NTU for international students?

NTU is a welcoming and supportive academic environment. The home of social equality. We love NTU!

What’s the biggest difference compared with a university back home?

NTU has better teaching quality, student support services and learning resources compared to the university back home.