Kate
Sikwese

Why NTU?

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Public Health?

"I pursued a postgraduate degree in public health for several reasons. Firstly, I am passionate about making a positive impact on public health, especially in developing countries such as Malawi.

Secondly, I wanted to advance my knowledge and skills in the field of public health to enable me to make a more significant contribution to the field.

Lastly, I believe that a postgraduate degree will open up new and exciting career opportunities that will allow me to achieve my long-term career goals."

Why did you choose the MA Public Health course at NTU?

"I chose to study my course at NTU because of the excellent reputation of the School of Social Sciences and the high-quality teaching and research facilities available.

Additionally, NTU has a strong commitment to international students, and the university's diverse and inclusive community made me feel welcome and supported."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?

"So far, my experience at NTU has been excellent. The course has been challenging, but the professors and lecturers have been supportive, providing me with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct research in my field.

The highlight of my course has been conducting research on my thesis topic, which has allowed me to apply the knowledge I have gained in the classroom to real-world problems."

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

"Yes, I have been involved in several extra-curricular activities that have supplemented my studies at NTU. For example, I participated in a student-led initiative that aimed to raise awareness about the importance of healthy eating and physical activity among children in the local community. As part of this initiative, I was able to work with a group of fellow students to design and deliver a series of interactive sessions at a local primary school.

In addition, I have also been involved in various seminars and workshops organized by the School of Social Sciences. These events have provided me with the opportunity to learn from experts in the field of public health and to engage with fellow students who share my passion for improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"To me, social sciences represent a field of study that is focused on understanding the social, economic, and political factors that influence human behaviour and well-being.

As a public health student, I see social sciences as a crucial tool for addressing the complex challenges that communities face in achieving optimal health outcomes.

Social sciences are about working with people to understand their unique circumstances and to develop tailored solutions that take into account the social determinants of health. It means being committed to transforming lives by advocating for policies and programs that promote health equity and social justice. And it means being willing to work on the frontline of service delivery, whether that be in a clinical or community-based setting, to help individuals and communities achieve their full potential."

Support

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

"I have found the support available from tutors and staff at NTU to be exceptional. The lecturers are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that we fully understand the course material and they are readily available to answer any questions we may have.

The university also has a range of support services, including academic and personal support, that are easily accessible to students. The support services have been invaluable in helping me to settle into university life and manage any challenges that I have faced during my studies."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"Yes, I found it very easy to make friends and settle in at NTU. The university has a very welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and there are many opportunities to meet new people and get involved in extracurricular activities. I have made friends from all over the world, and we often participate in activities together, which has helped me to feel more at home in the UK."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"After completing my MA in Public Health, I plan to return to Malawi and work in the public health sector. My goal is to use the knowledge and skills that I have gained at NTU to make a positive impact on the health outcomes of people in my community. I am also considering pursuing a PhD in Public Health in the future at NTU."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"NTU is helping me to achieve my career goals by providing me with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to succeed in the field of public health.

The university has an excellent reputation for research and teaching in this area, and the practical components of the course have given me the opportunity to apply what I have learned in real-world settings.

Additionally, the university has a range of career development services, including job fairs and workshops, which have been helpful in preparing me for my future career."

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

"Yes, the employability team has been very helpful in helping me plan for life beyond NTU as a postgraduate student. They have provided me with guidance on job search strategies, networking, and CV writing, and have connected me with alumni and industry professionals in my field of interest. The team has also helped me to identify relevant job opportunities and has provided me with information on how to apply for them."

As an International Student

Why did you want to study in the UK?

"I wanted to study in the UK because of its reputation for high-quality education and research, as well as its diverse and multicultural environment.

The UK has some of the best universities in the world, and I was attracted to the opportunity to learn from and interact with leading academics in my field of interest. Additionally, I was interested in experiencing life in a different country and learning about a new culture."

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

"As an international student at NTU, I have had the opportunity to interact with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. The university has a strong commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background.

There are also several support services available specifically for international students, such as the International Student Support Team, which provides advice on visas, immigration, and cultural adjustment.

In addition, the university has a very diverse student body, which has provided me with the opportunity to learn from and interact with people from all over the world. I have also had the opportunity to participate in cultural events and activities on campus, which has helped me to learn more about British culture and traditions."

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

"As a piece of advice for new international students, I strongly recommend taking full advantage of the resources and opportunities available at the university. This includes attending orientation sessions and social events to get to know the campus and meet new people.

Furthermore, joining clubs and societies, attending events and social gatherings, and participating in extracurricular activities is a great way to make friends and immerse yourself in university life.

Additionally, don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it and take the time to explore the city and surrounding areas to fully experience the UK's culture and history. Above all, it's important to maintain an open mind and be willing to learn and grow both academically and personally."