Skip to main navigationSkip to main content
The University of Southampton
Global

Gifty Dickson-Mensah MSc Applied Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing 2021

Gifty Dickson-Mensah's Photo

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

Southampton harbours one of the renowned GIS organisations; Ordinance Survey, hence UoS receives professionals to lecture students and fortunately for me during one of my modules I met with one such lecturer.

I have gained more confidence in my abilities and have built a network of individuals in my area of study.

What do you enjoy the most about living in Southampton or Winchester?

Southampton is like home to me though far away from my home. I enjoy all the shops around and the lovely people. Funny enough I sometimes just enter shops for the fun of it.

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

During my stay in Southampton I volunteered with an organisation to clean their premises. This helped me a lot by improving my team spirit and I made many friends as well.

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

I volunteered with a religious organisation which helped take my mind off academics for a while but helped gain transferrable skills. I also volunteered for Branch up, New Forest National Park and volunteered to write letters to the elderly during the COVID-19 lockdown but things did not turn out right.
What do you think you have gained from your degree that you wouldn’t have developed without it?
I have gained more confidence in my abilities and have built a network of individuals in my area of study. I also through the Careers and employability service of UoS have learnt how to build a better CV. I have learnt critical analysis and thinking throughout my study and stay. My exposure to various software for data analysis will go a long way in my career.

What are you most proud of from your time at the University of Southampton so far? (This could be social or academic)

I am proud of many things I have done in UoS but being able to blend and cope with a new educational system with its requirements is the best. I now believe I can handle anything in life and do it even better.

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

Difficulty in keeping up with my own standards of excellence. I was also faced with challenges on how to present my assignments, so I attended several sessions organised by the school’s library. I learnt how to structure and present my assignments. I felt lonely sometimes too but made good friends along the way.

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

I hardly miss home. I know where to turn to when I need help, and everyone is so willing to offer their help when needed.

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

I hope to pursue a PhD. My area of study is one that is becoming increasingly sort after in my country and I will be glad to use my experience to help my country.

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

It’s surprisingly awesome

Is there anything else you would like to say?

To enjoy your study in UoS do not keep to yourself. Make friends, do some volunteering and ask questions when needful.

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

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship

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

Without this scholarship I could not afford a master’s degree. The scholarship gave me the opportunity to be a better version of me. CSS organised programs and events and sometimes courses which I engaged in which helped me gain soft transferrable skills as well as build professional network.

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

I believe if your course of study and your goals fit into the SDGs you can win this award. I will advise future applicants to locate where in the 17 SDGs their courses correlate and build their application on this. This gives you better chance with CSS.

Share this profile Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on Weibo
Privacy Settings