Amanda Ceroli MSc Oceanography student and US-UK Fulbright Scholar

One thing I love most about my program specifically, is that all my course mates and lecturers come from different backgrounds and levels of life experiences allowing me to gain many different perspectives. Also, the lecturers and staff understand the variety of career options following this program and do everything they can to help the students' network as a whole and on an individual basis.

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

I chose Southampton because it is world-renowned for ocean sciences, and one of the best places to study with access to leading scientists in the field. I heard about Southampton through their undergraduate exchange program for marine biology with my university in the US (University of North Carolina Wilmington). I didn’t have the chance to participate with my degree course (Physics), but I had some friends who did, and it has interested me ever since.

What do you enjoy the most about living in Southampton?

I do absolutely love the green spaces all around the city, but I honestly really enjoy the juxtaposition of historic and modern in the city centre. Living history has always fascinated me, especially anything maritime oriented. Also, it is much easier to explore around here (either walking or using public transportation) than where I am from in the US which makes the city as a whole feel a bit safer here.

What is the name of the scholarship you have received?

US-UK Fulbright Scholarship

How do you feel this scholarship has benefitted you and your studies?

The scholarship funding in general has let me engage in activities and the English social culture without the worry of finances. It allows me to spend more time developing quality relations with others, as well as on my studies, rather than wrapped up in a job. More specifically, the Fulbright scholarship has given me huge support system with friends spread across the country. If circumstances were normal (not in lockdown) I would have visited them throughout the year, gaining experiences of the various aspects that make up UK culture.

What has been your proudest accomplishment while you were in Southampton?

My proudest accomplishment is actually maintaining a decent life balance between school, socializing, and personal time (sleep). Navigating this balance has always been difficult for me, and usually I choose to pour myself solely into my studies and jobs while neglecting the social aspect. My personal goal for this year was to step out of my comfort zone to develop a healthy balance of all three. I would definitely say life is more enjoyable with friends to share it with outside of school and work. Even now in lockdown, I keep in touch regularly with many of the friends I’ve made here.

What will you do with your degree after you have finished your studies?

In the immediate future, I aspire to enter the workforce and gain real-world experience in my field. While I am still unsure what exact career I want, my degree so far has challenged me in many ways which have especially helped in defining my aspirations after this year. I aim to have a career that utilizes the knowledge learnt to make significant contributions to society through areas outside academia.

Is there anything else you would like to say?