The highlight of my Sheffield experience has been the food
How did you feel when you heard that you were successful in being awarded the scholarship?
If I were told to express, in one word, how I felt after being awarded this scholarship, it would definitely be relieved. Relieved because this scholarship helped to ease the financial costs and as I identify as a middle-class citizen this was really helpful.
What made you choose to study at Sheffield and your course?
After a year of working in a hospital setting where there is little local research to guide the dispensation of health services, I realised that this shortage hinders not just the practice of clinical medicine, but effective policy making. Bearing this in mind, I chose the MPH as a means to nurture my research, critical thinking and analytical skills so that I could transfer them to our local health care system. I decided on the University of Sheffield because it is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and has built a reputation of excellence through its world-changing research.
What was your initial impression of Sheffield and the University when you first arrived?
Coming from London, where I spent two weeks after arriving in the UK, what struck me first was Sheffield’s peacefulness. The calm, quiet atmosphere was homely and welcoming. The friendly people, green open spaces and fresh air made me love this city more each day. Yes, the terrain was a little tricky to navigate during the first week and the hills roughed-up my lungs a bit, but they’re stronger now! The University itself was initially overwhelming in magnitude as mine back home was about a quarter of the size of the University of Sheffield! Gradually, as things came into perspective, it was clear that the enormity of the campus simply meant that there was a niche for everyone!
What are the highlights of your experience in Sheffield so far?
The highlight of my Sheffield experience thus far has to be the scrumptious, decadent food available on West Street. In Guyana, and indeed, all across the Caribbean where flavour is everything, everyone takes great pride in their cooking. The restaurants on West Street are nothing short! Their assortments of meals are exquisite, bold and deeply satisfying. For an extraordinarily impressive culinary adventure, these restaurants are a must visit!
What would you say to a student considering studying at the University of Sheffield?
There were many factors that influenced my decision to study at Sheffield; living expenses, tuition fees, safety, family expectations and my own personal fulfilment. Sheffield holds a reputation for being quite affordable, peaceful and welcoming, and it truly is all of these, and more. The Students’ Union has over 300 clubs and societies to choose from and so you can be part of a dynamic, inclusive society.