Aji
Buba

Why NTU?

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?

"I come from the northeast of Nigeria where currently the region is going through a humanitarian crisis due to insecurities and other socioeconomic factors. As such, I wanted to work with organizations that are helping people cope with these crises to provide aid and assist in the rehabilitation of communities affected.

Achieving this goal will require me to have the relevant knowledge and skill sets necessary to participate in the programs run by organisations such as UNICEF, WHO and Save The Children. This is my motivation to study a Masters in Public Health to get the knowledge of working with communities and more."

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?

"The MA in Public Health offers the social science aspect of public health, which is what I need as I am looking forward to working with communities going through humanitarian crises. NTU’s MA in Public Health covers the social aspect of public health, which is key to developing the skills and experience I need."

What's your experience of the course been like so far?

"It has been an awesome journey so far. I come from a science background but quickly adapted to the environment because of my deep interest in the course. The international politics of health and philosophy modules are the most fascinating and interesting.

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?

"I am currently a student representative. Being the voice of the students, also bridging the gap between the administration and the students has been an interesting and rewarding experience."

What does social sciences mean to you? 

"Working with communities, being at the frontline and undertaking projects where communities and stakeholders can achieve common goals for a better and healthier society."

On Placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course?

"I am about to start a placement at Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda where I will be working with Makerere community."

Support

What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?

"They are always ready to assist and easily accessible. From tutors to library staff and all other support system works excellently here."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?

"As an international student, it can be mentally challenging, being far away from home but, NTU has become a new home for me with many friends from different parts of the world."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"My initial plan was to go back as I earlier mentioned, to work with global organizations and help communities in Northeast Nigeria. But NTU has made me fall in love with the school, Nottingham and the United Kingdom.

Hopefully, with all the help from the employability team, it should be easy to gain employment. I will always be a part of the NTU community, and it will be an awesome opportunity if I get to help new international students settle in here in whatever capacity."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"The placement opportunity I got is in line with my career path and I believe the experience I will get after this placement will provide me with the relevant knowledge and skill I require to further my carer ambition."

As an International Student

Why did you want to study in the UK?

"The standard of education is world-class with state-of-the-art facilities and an environment conducive for both study and extracurricular activities. The university also prepares you for life after the course. Over the years, I have had friends who have studied in the UK and their positive feedback has been a motivation to study here."

What experiences have you had as an international student at NTU?

"Meeting people from different countries and backgrounds; making friends with no discrimination or division; expanding my network are lasting experiences I will take with me."

What advice would you give to help new international students get settled in at NTU?

"Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you study. Embrace the moment, go with it and make it memorable."