Parmida Nikkhaah MEng Mechanical Engineering / Sustainable Energy Systems, Thailand

Southampton Presidential Scholarship

I have been able to connect with such a wide range of people from different years of university, degree programmes, and cultures. I find that as we’re international we have quite a bit in common in settling into the UK, and I appreciate the sense of community it has provided to us.

Why did you decide to study at the University of Southampton? 

I decided to study at the University of Southampton because it best aligned with what I wanted to achieve and the trajectory of my life. The flexibility and readily available nature of guidance on future careers, internships and alternate programs (such as PhD's, Integrated Master’s programmes and more) was originally what drove me to pick Southampton as my top university choice. I am currently studying an integrated Master's in mechanical engineering with a placement year, and I will go through the process of applying for the placement in my second or third year under guidance. Although I am in my first year of the course, I have already been provided with the opportunity to attend career events that have allowed me to better engage with the industry and understand what I truly feel passionate about.  

What advice would you offer candidates applying for the scheme? 

It’s important to remember that your answers are reviewed and graded, and so the quality of writing and content you produce should be kept to a professional and high standard. As the scholarship itself aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, it’s crucial you readily refer to them, and ensure your writing is guided and informative. In my personal case, I was quite passionate about quite a few of the Sustainable Development Goals, and I focused on those specifically. Finally, and perhaps most obviously, starting early and planning the steps of the application process is perhaps the most important part of successfully applying for the scholarship scheme.  

What have been the highlights of your experience as a Southampton Presidential International Scholarship scholar so far? 

I have been able to connect with such a wide range of people from different years of university, degree programmes, and cultures. I very much enjoy speaking to quite a few friends I have made through scholarship events. I find that as we’re international we have quite a bit in common in settling into the UK, and I appreciate the sense of community it has provided us.