Chisom
Chidi-Okeke

Why NTU?

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?

"I chose to pursue a postgraduate degree in MA Public Health because of my passion for improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities. Public health is a field that allows me to make a positive impact on society by addressing health disparities and promoting disease prevention."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?

"NTU's reputation as a top-ranked university with a strong commitment to research and innovation was a key factor in my decision. I was impressed by the quality of the faculty and their expertise in various areas of public health, as well as the opportunity to collaborate with fellow students who share my passion for improving health outcomes.

Moreover, pursuing a postgraduate degree in public health at NTU will provide me with the necessary knowledge and skills to advance in my career and contribute meaningfully to the field. I am excited about the potential opportunities to work on important public health initiatives and research projects in the future, and I believe that NTU is the perfect place to start my journey toward achieving these goals."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights?

"My experience of the course so far has been incredibly fulfilling. The curriculum has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts and practical applications of public health, which has allowed me to develop my skills and knowledge in the field.

One of the highlights of my course has been the opportunity to work on group projects with like-minded individuals who share my passion for positively impacting society. Collaborating with my peers has not only been an enjoyable experience but has also allowed me to develop my teamwork and communication skills, which are vital in the field of public health."

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

"During my time at NTU, I have actively participated in several extra-curricular activities that have enhanced my overall university experience. One of my favourite activities was playing table tennis, which not only helped me stay physically active but also allowed me to meet and interact with fellow students who shared similar interests.

In addition to that, I also attended the end-of-the-year party organized by the school, which was a great opportunity to socialize and network with other students from different courses and faculties. The event featured various fun activities, games, and performances, which made it an unforgettable experience for me.

Being involved in these projects and extra-curricular activities has not only supplemented my studies but also helped me develop important life skills such as teamwork, time management, and communication, which I believe will be valuable in my future career."

What does Social Sciences mean to you? 

"For me, Social Sciences is about understanding the complex dynamics of human interactions and relationships, and how they shape our world. It involves analyzing social issues and phenomena and developing solutions to address them. This can involve working with people, communities, and organizations to improve their lives and transform society."

Support

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

"The tutors at NTU are highly qualified and experienced in their respective fields, and they provide students with individual attention and guidance to help them achieve their academic goals. The staff members at NTU are also very supportive and are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that students have a positive experience at the university."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"Making friends and settling in at a new university can be a daunting experience, but I was fortunate enough to find it relatively easy at NTU. The university has a vibrant student community, and there were plenty of opportunities to socialize and meet new people outside of the lecture theatre.

One thing that helped me was getting involved in student clubs and societies. There are so many different groups to choose from, covering everything from sports to academic interests, so there's something for everyone. Joining a club or society is a great way to meet like-minded people and make friends who share your interests.

Another thing that made settling in easier was the support services provided by NTU. The university has a dedicated student support team who are available to offer advice and guidance on a range of issues, from academic to personal. They also organize social events and activities to help students get to know each other and feel part of the NTU community.

In general, I found it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU, and I'm grateful for the positive experiences I've had here so far."

The Next Steps

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"As a university student at NTU, I have found that the institution provides numerous opportunities and resources to help me achieve my career goals.

Firstly, the university offers a range of academic programs that are tailored to meet the demands of various industries and equip students with relevant skills and knowledge. These programs are delivered by experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, and they provide students with hands-on experience through internships, co-op programs, and research opportunities.

In addition to academic programs, NTU offers a range of career development services that are designed to help students navigate the job market and find employment after graduation. These services include career counselling, resume and cover letter reviews, job search workshops, and employer networking events.

Through these resources, I have been able to explore various career paths, identify my strengths and weaknesses, and develop a personalized career plan that aligns with my goals. Also, NTU has a strong alumni network that offers opportunities for networking and mentorship. I am grateful for the support and resources that NTU has provided me in achieving my career goals."

Has the employability team helped you plan for life beyond NTU as a postgraduate student?

"The employability team at NTU has been extremely helpful in guiding me towards planning my future as a postgraduate student. They have provided me with various resources such as career fairs, workshops, and one-to-one sessions with career advisors.

Through these resources, I was able to gain a better understanding of the job market, and the skills and experiences that employers are looking for. The employability team also helped me tailor my CV, cover letter, and job applications to stand out to potential employers. I am grateful for the support that the employability team has provided me and feel more confident about my prospects beyond NTU."

As an International Student

Why did you want to study in the UK?

"As an international student, I was attracted to the UK's world-renowned universities and their excellent academic reputation. The UK has a long history of providing high-quality education, and I was excited about the prospect of studying in a country with such a rich cultural and academic heritage. Besides, the UK's multicultural society and diverse student population appealed to me. I was eager to experience new cultures and meet people from all over the world, and the UK provided an ideal environment for that."

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

"As an international student at NTU, I have had a range of experiences that have enriched my academic and personal life. Firstly, I have had the opportunity to study alongside students from diverse cultural backgrounds, which has broadened my understanding of different perspectives and ways of thinking. This has been particularly valuable in group projects and discussions, as it has challenged me to approach problems from new angles.

Additionally, I have found the support services for international students at NTU to be excellent. The university provides a range of resources, such as language support and cultural events, that have helped me to adjust to life in a new country. The staff has been incredibly helpful and approachable, and I have always felt supported and encouraged to seek assistance when needed.

Outside of academics, I have also been able to get involved in a range of extracurricular activities, such as clubs and societies. This has helped me to meet new people and make friends and has also allowed me to explore my interests and hobbies in a new environment.

I would like to emphasize that my experience as an international student at NTU would not have been possible without the generous scholarship that I was awarded by the university. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity, as it made my dream of studying abroad a reality. The scholarship not only helped to alleviate financial burdens but also allowed me to fully immerse myself in the academic and cultural experiences at NTU without any added stress or worries. This support from the university has truly made a significant impact on my life, and I am forever thankful for it.

My experience as an international student at NTU has been incredibly positive, and I feel that it has prepared me well for a globalized world. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that I have had here, and I would highly recommend NTU to other international students looking for a welcoming and supportive academic community."

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

"As a university student myself, and taking into account the experiences of many of my international peers, here are some pieces of advice that I believe could be helpful to new international students:

1. Take advantage of orientation programs: NTU offers orientation programs specifically designed for international students, which can provide valuable information on things like campus resources, academic expectations, and cultural norms. Attend these programs to help you get a better understanding of the university and the community you will be joining.
2. Connect with fellow international students: It can be helpful to connect with other international students who may be facing similar challenges as you. Attend events or join student groups that cater to international students, and take advantage of social media to find and connect with others in your community.
3. Get involved on campus: Joining student organizations or clubs is a great way to meet new people and get involved on campus. It can also help you to develop skills and gain experiences that will be valuable in your future career.
4. Build relationships with professors and academic advisors: Professors and academic advisors can be important resources for academic and career guidance. Make an effort to build relationships with them early on and seek their advice when you need it.
5. Explore the local community: Make an effort to explore the local community and get to know the people and places around you. This can help you to feel more connected to your new home and may provide opportunities for cultural enrichment.

Remember, settling in at university can take time, so be patient with yourself and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Good luck with your university experience!"