Abubakar

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Abubakar Kheir is an MSc Global Health Policy student, on the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Program, from Malindi, Kenya. Abubakar shares his experience of being part of the Scholars Network at The University of Edinburgh.

What has your experience been as an international student at Edinburgh?

"One of the take-aways from my stay in Edinburgh is how effective student-centered learning is in terms of imparting knowledge, the education system and learning environment has been structured in such a magnificent way that any student can comprehend and grasp the content with ease.

The fact that Edinburgh is home to many students, makes the city more vibrant and diverse where most services required by students are available and at affordable costs."

How does the Scholars Network support you?

"As an international student, the University has accorded me much needed services and support.

After attending my first Scholars Network event, I just felt I was home. Interacting with scholars from Africa, Asia among other continents made me feel how small the world can get. As an international student from Kenya, the Scholars Network is a family to me at Edinburgh."

What is your favourite thing about studying at Edinburgh?

"The diversity of Edinburgh in terms of race, nationality, religion etc is unmatched and there are lots of exciting places, like Edinburgh castle, where one can relax on a sunny weekend, a good therapy from a busy class week."

What challenges have you had as an international student, and how did you overcome those challenges?

"Being someone from the coast of Kenya where the lowest it gets is 22 degrees is quite a struggle to cope with the weather during winter, luckily enough availability of warm clothing and comfortable accommodation with heating systems makes me adapt to the weather."

What is your proudest achievement (so far) whilst studying at Edinburgh?

"Being the first person from my family and village to travel to Europe and Edinburgh for that matter to pursue an MSc course is a milestone achievement, and this will go a long way to instil hope to my society back home that anything is possible, you just need to make that extra step.

Also - mastering the art of interacting with people outside my social circle. I never thought I would make international friends."

What advice would you give to other students from your country who are considering Edinburgh as a place to study?

"For my fellow Kenyans who aspire to pursue their studies abroad, University of Edinburgh is the University to go.

With its recent ranking emerging as one of the top universities in UK and globally is a worth educational investment. My experience from application for admission to the university was easy and straightforward with proper measures put in place to guide prospective students accordingly.

I had always dreamt of pursuing my further studies abroad, specifically the UK, my experience in Edinburgh is beyond my expectation, ranging from a conducive learning environment, scenic sites, and a friendly community. I’ll have lots of stories and experiences to share back home.

I'm certain my stories will inspire many back home, not only undertaking a masters degree but also a masters degree at the University of Edinburgh."

Find out more about the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship:

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship