My name is Umar Bello, I am an international student from Nigeria. I have a background in Mechanical Engineering. In my most recent experience, I worked as a Lead Rocket Engine and Propulsion Engineer in the Space Exploration Agency back in my home country. I am currently studying a master’s program in Strategic Engineering Management.
Thus far, I have truly enjoyed my time at the University of Derby and the city at large. Every day, I am reminded that I made the right choice.
However, I have noticed and witnessed what I and many other students like myself tag as limitations for postgraduate students, particularly international postgraduate students.
In no particular order, some of these pertinent limitations are listed below and need addressing. These limitations are the driving force behind the nomination for the position.
Graduate Engagement. The current paradigm is largely advocated to undergraduates with little or no help for post graduate students, many of whom have years of relevant work experience. This needs to change as more advocacy should be placed on helping postgraduate students secure opportunities with the help of the university.
Postgraduate Enrolment: This is particularly bewildering. Being an international postgraduate student should not be a burden and semester enrolments should not always be a painstaking activity. I strongly believe it should be seamless and hassle-free. It should especially not take 3 weeks or more as was the case for several international students.
Graduate Fees: When compared with that of home students the fees for postgraduate study should be revised accordingly. The disparity in fees is too wide and leaves a flurry of unanswered questions. Questions that require a more concise response than ‘University Policy’.