Felicia Boateng Ghanaian, due to graduate in 2021

MSc Education, 1st year

I chose Southampton because of their research-intensive reputation and supportive staff members.

What do you enjoy the most about living in Southampton?

I enjoy their scenic environment and the facilities available to support students learning.

Have you undertaken any work placements, collaborations with industry, internships or volunteering? How has this enhanced your experience?

I wanted to acquire knowledge and skills from other disciplines that were not related to my subject area, so I took a voluntary role at Sue Ryder and the exposure has been great. It has built my confidence, communication, and interpersonal relationship skills as I get to interact with a lot of people all times.

Have you undertaken any extracurricular activities? How have they enhanced your experience?

To be the University representative for 2019/2020 Commonwealth scholars. This role has enhanced my leadership skills as I work in collaboration with the South East Regional Coordinator in planning and organising programmes for Scholars.

What do you think you have gained from your degree that you wouldn’t have developed without it?

This degree programme has offered me a lot of skills and experience. For instance, it has enhanced my research skills, confidence level and expanded my networks to different country and cultural backgrounds.

What are you most proud of from your time at the University of Southampton so far?

Getting the opportunity to study in one of the prestigious institutions in the world. Also, the knowledge, skills and experiences I have gained during my time as a student makes me proud.

What has been the hardest aspect of studying in another country? How has the University helped you overcome the challenges?

To adapt to the teaching and learning methods used in the University and to locate where to get help from. However, due to the intensive orientation given by School of Education, I overcame those challenges in short time. For instance, through the induction programme, I was able to locate places I can seek help from when needed.

How have the people you have met at Southampton changed your life?

People I’ve met in Southampton have changed my perception about people from different culture and background. I’ve learnt how to respect peoples’ opinion as different people from different country and cultural background have different values to adhere to.

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

I’m passionate about making a difference in the life of others and that is what I hope to continue after my studies. As I have chosen education pathway, I hope to work in an organisation that aims to support and promote quality education for children.

In long term, I hope to set up an education foundation project to create awareness and seek fund to support children in the deprived areas in my community who do not have access to education.

Can you sum up your University of Southampton experience in three words?

Enlightening, Transformative and Rewarding

What is the name of the scholarship or bursary you have received?

Commonwealth Scholarship

How has the funding enhanced your experience as a student at the University of Southampton?

The funding has given me a great exposure to the world. It is through the funding that I was able to travel abroad and experience different learning environment, culture and meet different people from all over the world.

What advice do you have for future applicants who may wish to apply for this scholarship or bursary?

Even though Commonwealth Scholarship is highly competitive, I will advise prospective applicants to go ahead and apply with confidence. They should never give up even if they are not offered the scholarship in their first or second attempt. I was awarded the full scholarship in my second attempt. If I had given up after losing the first one, I would have missed this greatest opportunity in my life.