Mohammad Muazzam Sharif English PhD

Hi I am Mohammad Muazzam Sharif studying English PhD.

My main interest was to study Shakespearean drama but from a modern lens and this is what Southampton offered me here. The wide range of expertise from Medieval to present day and the diverse body of research active staff were the main reasons to join the University of Southampton.

What were you anxious about before coming to Southampton, and once here were these fears overcome?

Well, I had all sorts of concerns, from finding accommodation to settling in on campus. But the help and guidance provided at English department as well as at various university’s affiliated bodies like International Office, Friends International helped me overcome my challenges.     

What is it like studying here?

PhD life could be very challenging and stressful, however, the guidance provided here helped me go through my journey smoothly. I commend the guidance and encouragement provided here at English especially by my supervisor Ros King, who gave me confidence to carryout research in the field that I was always passionate about. I love and enjoy the way my thesis has developed since I started my studies here at Southampton.   

Life on campus is very safe and the provision of safety bus, which runs till late night throughout term time, shows the commitment of the university about the safety of the students. Due to the safety bus, studying late in the library and getting home has never been a problem for me.

Besides studies, Long Walks around Southampton with my family, Cricket and Cycling have helped me maintain a good work-life balance. A century in one of the cricket games certainly helped me get my confidence back to complete my task at work.

How do you rate study facilities at the University, such as the Library?

The wide range of facilities provided by the Library adds to overall study facilities provided by the University. Besides regular facilities, the latest language resources provided by the library helped me develop my language skills to effectively carry out my research. The provision of quite study areas and group study rooms have also made it easy for me and my friends to continue our studies and meet the deadlines.  

What have been your Southampton ‘highlights’ (best experiences) so far?

I am passionate about two things: my research and cricket. At Southampton, I got a chance to follow both of my passions.  

I strongly believe that the expert supervision provided here at English department has guided me to successfully achieve my goal. And the sports facilities available here has allowed to play cricket on the lush green grounds of Hampshire during the English summer cricket season.

What other activities have you taken advantage of while at University?

The facilities available for sports at the University encouraged me to join and play for Higher Division Cricket Leagues at Southampton. I played for the Southampton Community Cricket team in one of the oldest cricket league in the UK where we won the finals at Ageas Bowl in 2014. The same year we won Harold Diaper Rose Bowl Trophy too.

Do you have any idea of what you would like to do in the future?

I am already in the Academia. The opportunities that I have availed here at the University have equipped with me skills and knowledge that I would love to put to use in my new work place.  

What advice would you offer to potential students?

The University of Southampton offers everything that a student may need. If you have a potential the university has already got you covered.

Do you like living in Southampton?

I love my stay in Southampton. From long walks along River Itchen and in New Forest to a sightseeing of historical places like Netley, Southampton offers a mixture of everything for everyone. I have felt safe both on and off campus. Whether commuting late night or early morning, I have never felt unsafe in Southampton.