Afiya Riyaz Mohammed
Year of Graduation: 2023
Home country: India
Why did you choose to study at the University of Nottingham?
It was love at first sight for me!
The University of Nottingham is among the top 50 in the world for education and proudly positions itself as number two in the UK for graduate employability (High Fliers Graduate Report 2022). It has high quality education taught by some world-class professors in the School of Education.
It has a lush green sustainable campus. The atmosphere for acculturation was advantageous for me as this provided me with holistic development and a safe bubble with the buzzing campus life, with various clubs, societies and presence of the Students' Union.
How has the course helped you in your career, or will help with your future career?
It has given me global platform to learn and explore so much in the British and Indian education context. The course design and assessments gave me a new perspective and critical thinking abilities.
Without a doubt it will help with my future career, yes! The confidence I have gained by studying at the university has opened dynamic career options for me. With educational leadership and management at its core, I am already working on developing my skills in project management for HE, as taking this particular course was always about being a change maker and implementing those changes in the educational sector.
Was there a particular module that you enjoyed the most?
‘Issues in Educational Leadership and Management' was my very first module. It was an eye opener for me. The more literature I read, the challenges faced by educational leaders seemed similar throughout the globe. Knowledge gained through this module made me more determined to keep working in resolving these issues.
What was the best part of your course?
My professors and tutors, they have been extremely supportive and understanding, and the inclusive and diverse nature of my class. I thoroughly enjoyed learning and interacting so much with my Chinese, Colombian and Moroccan friends. As a cohort it was just one big family sharing ideas, having fun and creating memories all the way.
How were you supported on the course?
As an international student, I was well informed during induction week about all the academic and well-being help available. The academic language and communications skills support right at the start of the course gave me an edge in the classroom as I was better prepared to ask if I had doubts. Apart from this there was always something engaging and interesting happening on the campus which made sure I enjoyed my leisure time.
Why do you think students should come to Nottingham to study this course?
It’s not just a beautiful city but also has lovely and extremely polite people. The university gives me all the hustle and bustle while Nottingham city gives me the quiet and scenic place to live. The housing and transportation throughout the city is student friendly. As an international student, another highlight for me was the city has been consistently accredited by a prestigious Purple Flag in recognition of the safe, vibrant and diverse dining, culture and entertainment.
Do you have any advice for anyone considering the course?
Just do it! You will never regret coming to Nottingham. The course and the connections made will change the trajectory of your goals and career.
I cannot thank enough the University of Nottingham and School of Education MA Educational Leadership and Management course for all these experiences and opportunities.