Olivia
Okpara

Why NTU?

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?

"I chose to study a postgraduate degree as it was the next step in my career plan to gain the required skills and knowledge on my path to becoming a Chartered Psychologist."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?

"I chose to study Psychological Wellbeing and Mental Health at NTU due to the core modules and the course focusing on Psychological Wellbeing which addressed the main areas I was focused on gaining knowledge and competency on.

Secondly, reviews on student support for international students especially from mature students who graduated in previous years made me choose NTU. As a mature student from another country, support was key for me as I already envisaged the challenges I would encounter and knew the importance of having the right support system.

Lastly, NTU's research and teaching standard is excellent."

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

"Three months into the course, I started feeling overwhelmed with all the adjustments and pressures of the culture shock of adapting to British life, academic demands, and language struggles. I started feeling inadequate and was sceptical to ask for help as I didn’t want to be judged and felt I could handle it all myself as per “strong African woman”.

After a class on mental health, I decided to talk to the course tutor and for the first time, I realised I didn’t have to bear the burden alone as he acknowledged what I was feeling and made me feel accepted and that there was support available. He referred me to the student support services and within 24 hours, I got a call from Support services, and they helped me deal with all I was feeling and got me back on my feet in no time.

This experience prompted me to become a student mental health champion as I realised a lot of international students were in my shoes but didn’t know what to do due to cultural factors and fear of being judged as not good enough or face being stigmatised, some just need encouragement or support from a fellow student to seek for help. I am grateful to NTU support services."

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

"Yes, as a student mental health champion, I joined the well-being walks, weekly support, craft making, art in the Den, and the Look After Your Mate workshop aimed at helping students recognise and provide support to other students dealing with suicidal ideation.

I also took part in the Luminarium Day event and ensured I invited all students I could reach on the NTU City campus which was an awesome light experience. The Luminarium Day event was a strategic well-being event as that period had a lot of students stressed out from exams and assessments and the event helped students relax, de-stress and feel relieved by the time they came out of the dome.

I also joined the Green Champion recycling project and was elated when I was recognised as the Green Champion for the month and contributed to pushing Social Sciences up the leaderboard.

I also joined the Peer Support training hosted by Nottinghamshire Healthcare where gained insight on how I could use the knowledge and skills gained in my program to provide support and assist people’s mental wellbeing on their recovery journey."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"As a postgraduate student of psychological well-being and mental health, Social Sciences represent a multifaceted discipline that allows me to work with people, understand their experiences, and contribute to positive change. It offers the opportunity to engage in research, intervention, and frontline services, all aimed at enhancing well-being, transforming lives, and creating a more inclusive and supportive society."

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 to be invaluable. The university places a strong emphasis on student well-being and academic success, and this is reflected in the range of resources and services provided.

All the tutors in my program have been incredibly supportive and knowledgeable. They have a deep understanding of the subject matter and are passionate about helping students succeed. They are always approachable and available to answer questions, respond to emails promptly, provide guidance, and offer feedback on assignments.

My academic tutor and project supervisor at NTU have also been a great source of support. All tutors have provided guidance not only in terms of academic progress but also in terms of personal and professional development.

NTU also offers a range of student support services that have been vital in ensuring a positive and enriching university experience. From counselling services to disability support, these services cater to the diverse needs of students. The university recognizes that students may face various challenges, both academically and personally, and provides a safe and supportive environment to seek assistance when needed.

Moreover, the feedback and assessment practices at NTU have been rigorous yet constructive. Tutors and staff take the time to provide detailed feedback on assignments, allowing me to understand my strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback has been instrumental in honing my skills and enhancing my learning experience.

Overall, I have been impressed with the level of support available from tutors and staff at NTU. Their dedication to student success, well-being, and personal growth is evident in their approachable nature, expertise, and the range of support services provided. I feel fortunate to be part of a university that values its students and is committed to fostering an environment that promotes both academic excellence and holistic development."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"Yes I did, Nottingham is a friendly city where I made friends everywhere with just a smile. Everyone is always willing to assist with a smile and ask if you are alright. I made friends from various countries by engaging in the Global Lounge's weekly activities. I also got the opportunity to sign up to learn a new language - Mandarin at the Global Lounge."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"After NTU, I am looking forward to furthering my studies with a doctoral program in Psychology and also gaining clinical experience to enable me to become a Chartered Psychologist.

I also intend to publish my postgraduate research and any other research thereafter to contribute and promote the wellbeing of workers in the adult social care sector."

As an International Student

Why did you want to study in the UK?

" As an international postgraduate student in the UK, studying in this country has been a dream come true. The decision to pursue my studies here was driven by several compelling factors.

First and foremost, the UK has a rich academic tradition and is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities. The opportunity to study in an environment known for its high educational standards and cutting-edge research was immensely appealing. The UK's commitment to excellence in higher education and its reputation for producing well-rounded graduates were significant draws for me.

Furthermore, the UK offers a diverse and multicultural environment that fosters inclusivity and promotes global perspectives. Interacting with students from various cultural backgrounds has enriched my learning experience, allowing me to gain insights from different perspectives and broaden my horizons. The multicultural fabric of the UK has also facilitated personal growth, promoting intercultural understanding and fostering lifelong connections with people from around the world.

What experiences have you had as an international student at NTU?
Being an international student in the UK, and specifically in Nottingham, has provided me with a unique set of experiences. Nottingham is a vibrant city with a rich history, a thriving arts scene, and a welcoming atmosphere. The city offers a perfect blend of a bustling urban environment and serene natural landscapes. Exploring the iconic landmarks, attending cultural events, and immersing myself in the local community by volunteering in charity have made my time here truly memorable.

The support and services provided to international students have been exceptional. From the moment I arrived, the university's international office has been a reliable source of guidance, offering assistance with immigration matters, orientation programs, and student support and financial advice. The university has also organized events and activities specifically tailored to international students, facilitating integration into the campus community and helping us feel at home such as the weekly Global community lunch with different cuisines around the world, Crafternoon, Career talks, Africa Day event, Cultural society and the amazing Global week where various cultures round the world was celebrated with fashion, food and dance.

Additionally, the UK's emphasis on student well-being has been evident throughout my experience. The university provides comprehensive support services, including mental health resources, career guidance, and academic support. These resources have been instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition into academic life and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

As an international student, I have had the opportunity to engage in cross-cultural exchanges, broaden my network, and develop lifelong friendships. The exposure to diverse perspectives and the chance to learn from world-class academics have been transformative. I feel privileged to be part of the UK's educational landscape, where I am constantly challenged intellectually and inspired to make a positive impact in my field of study."

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

"Orientation Programs: Take full advantage of the orientation programs organized by the university. These programs are designed to familiarize new students with the campus, academic systems, support services, and provide an opportunity to meet fellow students. Attend orientation events, participate in campus tours, and engage in activities to get a head start in building connections and understanding university life.

Connect with Support Services: NTU offers a range of support services tailored to the needs of international students. Make sure to connect with the International Office and Student Support Services. They can provide guidance on immigration matters, accommodation, healthcare, and other practicalities. These services are there to assist you, so don't hesitate to reach out to them whenever you have questions or concerns.

Join Student Societies and Clubs: NTU has a vibrant student community with numerous societies and clubs catering to various interests and cultures. Joining these groups is an excellent way to meet like-minded individuals, make friends, and immerse yourself in activities that align with your passions. Participating in social events and engaging in extracurricular activities will enhance your university experience and help you feel part of the community.

Embrace Cultural Diversity: The UK, and NTU in particular, is known for its diverse and inclusive environment. Embrace the opportunity to interact with students from different cultural backgrounds. Attend multicultural events, join intercultural dialogues, and celebrate festivals. Engaging with different perspectives will broaden your horizons, foster intercultural understanding, and create lasting friendships.

Seek Academic Support: If you need assistance with your studies, NTU offers academic support services such as study skills workshops, library support services, and subject-specific tutorials. Don't hesitate to reach out to your tutors or academic advisors for guidance. Developing good study habits early on and seeking help when needed will set you up for success in your academic journey.

Explore Nottingham: Take the time to explore the city of Nottingham and all it has to offer. From historical landmarks to modern attractions, Nottingham has something for everyone. Visit museums, explore local markets, and immerse yourself in the local culture. This will not only help you feel more connected to your surroundings but also create memorable experiences.

Take Care of Yourself: Moving to a new country and adjusting to university life can be overwhelming. Remember to prioritize self-care and well-being. Take breaks, establish a routine, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and seek support if you feel overwhelmed. NTU has counselling services and well-being resources available to help you navigate any challenges that may arise."