The best decision you would make in your life if you are planning to study at The University of Sheffield.

How does it feel to have been awarded a scholarship?

I felt so euphoric the moment I received the email that I have been awarded a scholarship. I knew that winning a scholarship from a world leading university would be very competitive but I had high hopes. I am short of words to explain how happy I was imagining the fact that senior lecturers from the scholarship board selected my application for the award of a merit scholarship. It not only boosted my confidence as an international student but imprinted on my mind a great zeal for academic achievement and devotion towards the university.

What made you choose to study at Sheffield and your course?

Sheffield being a vibrant city with great student diversity and world-renowned culture has its words spread across countries. I am from India and I wanted to experience the whole of the UK, and I thought that the city of Sheffield would be the best place to start with. 

From the course perspective, I was searching for courses that focused on Antimicrobial Resistance and Public Health. When I first came across the M.Sc. Antimicrobial Resistance course listed on the University of Sheffield’s website I was so intrigued by the course structure and the ongoing research projects. Another significant reason for me joining this particular course is because it is hosted by the Florey Institute for Host-Pathogen Interactions. The Florey Institue, named after Sir Howard Florey, addresses the emerging issue of antimicrobial resistance focusing on global healthcare. Sir Howard Florey won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945 for his contributions to the development of Penicillin, the first-ever antibiotic discovered. He was also a former Chair of Pathology at the University of Sheffield whose contribution has helped save millions of lives worldwide. This inspired me to choose this course and become a part of this Institute and further contribute to the global fight against antimicrobial resistance.

How did you research the University to find out about studying in Sheffield?

Once I found that the university was providing a specific course on Antimicrobial Resistance, I then read thoroughly the course structure and modules of study. I consulted with my Professors from my previous university about the course and took their suggestions. Also, since I want to continue with my PhD research in this field of study I even read the research projects currently undergoing in the department. This assessment helped me to form an overall idea of why I want to join The University of Sheffield.

What are you enjoying about your first semester? 

Coming to the UK for the first time was itself a whole new experience for me. To be honest I have fallen in love with the city of Sheffield. Although I am not quite a fan of the freezing weather here,  the serene beauty of this place makes me forget about everything else.  I am also enjoying my lectures at the department. The Professors are very friendly and take extra care to help us understand the topics. Moreover, meeting awesome classmates have made this experience of mine even more delightful. 

How has (or will) the scholarship benefit your studies?

Winning a merit scholarship has not only helped me to fund my studies in a top Russell Group university but acted as a stepping stone towards achieving my goal of studying the Antimicrobial Resistance program at the university and moving on with a career in this field. The scholarship gave me the chance to come and experience Sheffield and to meet new people with diverse and talented minds from across the globe with great visions.

What advice would you give to a student considering studying at the University of Sheffield?

The best decision you would make in your life if you are planning to study at The University of Sheffield. I am pretty sure not only you’ll get the chance to enjoy studying at a top-ranking research-focused university but you’ll get the opportunity to meet lovely people, experience the lovely nature and an enormous platform to excel in your career.

What do you hope to do in the future?

I am hopeful of doing a PhD in the field of Microbial Pathogenesis and Antimicrobial Drug Resistance. The rise in the number of antimicrobial drug resistance cases around the world has put the health of not only humans but animals in jeopardy. My goal is to tackle this emerging global public health concern and work towards improving policies in healthcare.