Chinwe
Alumna, International student
- Subject area
- Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering
I chose to study MSc Networked Communications* at Loughborough University because it offered the best option for me.
As this was my first time living away from my home country – Nigeria, the Loughborough campus played a big part in my decision making, especially as the accommodation was situated on the campus. I also found the campus style helped in developing friendships, that have since continued. Another great thing about Loughborough is they have various scholarships, one of which I was able to benefit from – the African Development Trust Scholarship.
The high-quality teaching and facilities really benefited me during my master’s. I was able to focus on my studies with support from teaching staff and tutors, and the computer rooms are spread around the campus, so I was able to use any of them to help with my learning. Although you can access a lot of materials online, the very large library was also a great advantage as it has a vast amount of recourses, beyond those available online.
After finishing my master’s, I decided to continue and do a PhD. Studying for a PhD at Loughborough University meant I could participate in the Researchers in Schools’ Programme, which was set up and funded by the UK Government for PhD researchers to teach in order to promote university access to non-selective state secondary schools. I became aware of this opportunity from the brilliant careers advice services at the University. Loughborough has loads of training opportunities outside of your studies, for example I was exposed to entrepreneurship, teaching, media and leadership training.
I currently work as a Secondary Maths Teacher with added teaching and learning responsibilities including promoting STEM subjects and careers to students, as well as working with high ability students on the maths aspect of their learning. I find this role thoroughly rewarding and to date, my greatest career achievement has been inspiring a young female student in my school to study engineering at university, even though her parents are worried it is a male-dominated course.
To anyone considering a postgraduate course, I would say go for it! Although a master’s or PhD in engineering can allow you to specialise in a certain area, they also open your career options further as the skills you gain in those courses are transferable across multiple disciplines. The staff at Loughborough University are amazing and very supportive, and the University has lots of links with industry and has a fantastic careers support service to set you up for your future, beyond your studies.
*In line with programme reviews, which ensure that our degrees remain relevant to industry needs, the Networked Communications MSc has been replaced with Telecommunications Engineering MSc