Hui Zhou MPhil/PhD Engineering & the Environment

PhD Student

Try to be open-minded; meeting and talking about your studies with people from different backgrounds may bring you unexpected inspiration.

Can you summarise your time at Southampton so far?

Southampton is a quiet town which is really good for studying. I would describe my life here as full of joy.

What has been the highlight of your time as a Southampton PhD student so far?

The university provides an open environment for its students. We can meet and get to know people from different backgrounds from all over the world.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

The process of self-doubt and questioning, and the pride I feel in working to advance the understanding in my field, although this is a limited contribution so far.

What are your supervisors like? Have you found them supportive?

They are very nice and kind, giving me constant support and time to learn by trial and error. I really like to talk and discuss my research with them, and I benefit from their experience in undertaking research.

How have the engineering facilities available at the University helped you with your research?

The experience of using demonstration facilities in some lab modules in my first year helped me understand the basic knowledge I will need for my research.

What do you think of the other facilities on campus?

Generally good, especially the facilities in libraries.

What advice would you offer to potential PhD students?

Try to be open-minded; meeting and talking about your studies with people from different backgrounds may bring you unexpected inspiration. For overseas students, try to learn about the local culture. And one more thing: use your time properly and keep healthy, study hard and play hard.