Akanksha shares their student experience

Akanksha, an associate postgraduate research student originally from India, joined UCLan for her PhD studies. Here she tells us about her time with us.

“I came to UCLan for my PhD studies because they have great research facilities and opportunities that I needed for my research proposal. I took part in a lot of research projects which deepened my understanding of my field of study and helped me to develop a critical understanding of my area of study.

“UCLan have a practical learning approach which means students gets hands on learning experience through internships and industry collaboration which really develop your practical skills and help enhance your employability.

"It was easy for me to make new friends at UCLan. I became good friends with my housemates at my accommodation and made friends with people on my course."

Akanksha's experience making friends

“My tutors were always very friendly, supportive and polite. I felt like I could always approach them with questions or for guidance throughout my course.

“One of the main reasons why I wanted to study in a different country was because and I wanted to experience new cultures whilst earning a PhD at a renowned and globally recognised university. UCLan attracts students from around the world and I love meeting new people and learning about different cultures. It was easy for me to make new friends at UCLan. I became good friends with my housemates at my accommodation and made friends with people on my course.

Akanksha Mahajan, Associate Postgraduate Research Student
Akanksha Mahajan, Associate Postgraduate Research Student

“There is so much to do in Preston and I could always find something to do even if it was raining! I loved walking around the city, admiring the architecture and discovering new places to go. I also took a lot of pictures of the buildings and of nature around the city. Preston also has great travel links so when I had some free time, I would go and explore other cities. I visited Manchester and Liverpool which were so fun to explore. The gym facilities were great too – I would often go in the summer.

“I always felt incredibly safe in Preston and around the campus. I loved my student accommodation. It was very spacious, always clean and the staff were so friendly.

“The support services at the University were fantastic and I always knew where I could go for support on wellbeing, careers/employment or for my studies.

“If you’re thinking of studying at UCLan, I would say seize the opportunity, explore Lancashire and embrace the experience! Always stay curious.”