Sangita Thapa

MSc International Development

Where are you from?

Nepal

What undergraduate course did you study and where?

I did my undergraduate in English Literature and Sociology from Tribhuvan University.

Why did you decide to study a masters?

I think its both my interest and career perspective that I joined MSc course in UK. Also, the academic excellence is another reason for applying to study here.

Why did you choose Northumbria University? Why did you choose your specific course?

Northumbria has excellent record of meeting expectations of the international students from all over the world. It is well equipped with learning facilities and has excellent academic profile. I was fascinated by the course modules and career perspectives of my chosen course (International Development) which not only gives a good understanding of theoretical concepts but also some key kills in development practise. For me, joining MSc course at Northumbria has proven to be a great decision.

What makes your specific course challenging/inspiring/different? How would you sum up the difference between Undergraduate and Postgraduate study?

I did my undergraduate in my own country and when I compare the study approach of two universities, there is a vast difference. At Northumbria, I think the study is not exam-centred but promotes rigorous research culture. Strong focus on research, critical analysis and creativity, apart from classroom discussion and interaction are some of the noted qualities which I found to be very crucial in shaping academic learning in UK.

What was it like studying at Northumbria? What are the different ways that you learn on your course?

My course consisted of lectures, seminars, group works, classroom discussions and team projects, which were very enriching. There were interesting guest lectures too. My overall experience is very positive and I would recommend my friends and colleagues to study at Northmbria.

How connected is your course with industry? Do you have the opportunity of placement, work on projects?

Yes, I am on a placement at a local charity organization at the moment.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

They are very friendly, cooperative and have special knowledge in their fields. To sum up, they all are great academic staffs.

As a postgraduate student, what aspects of university life are important to you?

To me, it is the facilities such as excellent tutors, well equipped library and canteen that matters the most. At post-graduate level, you need to have access to good library and resources so you can complete your independent research and project works. Apart from these, location and support of staff are obviously important to continue your study.

Have you changed as a person?

Yes. I think my writing has improved in terms of skills; while personally speaking, I explored my own self and learnt about a wide variety of international and local students from totally different cultures, beliefs and perspectives.

How would you describe yourself in 3 words before coming to Northumbria? What are the 3 key skills and attributes you have gained since being here?

I think I am more aware and respective of other cultures, perspectives and learnt to be more confident than I was before. In short, I am a better person now.