A graduate in Chemical Engineering from Covenant University, Nigeria, Joan joined UCLan in September 2019 to study MSc Oil and Gas Engineering after receiving the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship. She had adjusted to life in the UK by wearing warm and waterproof clothing, describing Preston as a ‘beautiful place with beautiful and friendly people’.
“Arriving at UCLan from Lagos, Nigeria the process of settling down was easy and although I arrived at night, I was not stranded at all – I got my keys and settled straight away. The registration process was smooth and UCLan accommodation is close to the school environment, so no transportation is needed to go to class or the city centre.
"It’s really safe here in Preston; going from the library to my accommodation at midnight has never been a problem for me. Yes, it can get quite cold, but I have learned to adjust by wearing warm and waterproof clothing.
"Preston is a beautiful place with beautiful and friendly people. It is definitely easy to make friends with such friendly people. People in Preston are willing to guide you at any point in time. During my first week, I was looking at a sign which contained the campus map for directions when a lady walked up to me to show me where I was going – that was really nice of her. You have nothing to worry about, you will enjoy Preston.
"I chose UCLan because the excellent teaching framework stood out for me. The practical aspect of my course makes it interesting and the lecturers make the teaching relatable. Dr Hamid Nasriani, our course leader, is so helpful and gives great supervision when approached and Mr Shephard Ndlovu is always ready to help too. In addition, here at UCLan, the library resources are really helpful. As a part of the course we visited 22 Bishopsgate – it was a great experience to witness the second tallest building in London during the construction stage.
"In my spare time, I have visited other UK cities, such as Leeds, London and Durham. I enjoy shopping and window shopping in Preston City Centre when I am not in classes or in the library doing assignments. A special experience of my time in Preston has been learning how to cycle! Back in my country, cycling is not as common as it is here, so I decided to learn by joining the cycling sports team where I was taught how to cycle. I have also joined the volunteering team at UCLan, as a way of giving back to the University and the wider Preston community."
"International students are treated well and the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship gave me the opportunity to learn in Preston and I have loved every experience. Thank you, UCLan – the guidance and support given by the scholarship contact from the university has been really awesome and must be commended."
— Joan Fiyinfoluwa Medaiyese
