Students from Bangladesh

Tell us about the process applying for the Commonwealth scholarship?

As we all know Commonwealth Scholarship is one of the prestigious scholarships in the world. But it has always been my dream to study in the UK with commonwealth scholarship. The whole processing time for commonwealth shared scholarship took around six months. But I would say the process structure for the application is well-organised. Everything was posted in the commonwealth commission website along with a brochure on how to complete the application. Staying calm and believing in me was the key to during this period.

Why did you choose to study at USW?

When I studied for hours about renewable energy projects, I always wondered, one day I will work in an equipment rich lab and extend my research works under the supervision of erudite professors. So my selection for applying in the University of South Wales was definitive, to become a part of its research body and fulfil my dreams. The University of South Wales is not only one of the renowned universities in the United Kingdom for renewable Energy, but also it has modern teaching environment and research-intensive programs. I feel this is the most equipped to facilitate my every need as I grow for the sake of all who have believed in and supported me along the way.

What has been the highlight of your time at USW so far?

I would say life so far in USW is amazing. 24-hour library access, high-quality teaching staff, latest technologies have helped to improve my study.

What do you think of life in Wales generally?

Though Wales has been too windy and cold sometimes but yet I would say, Wales is one of the beautiful places to live and study. Sea, beach, traditional castles, high hills, beautiful gardens all help to reduce my stress.

What do you think of the course/lecturers/facilities?

The course is well designed with lots of reading resources and recent publications provided by the lecturers regularly. Field visits to various types of power stations (the wind, hydro, solar etc.) and waste water plants make the study easy and effective to understand. This course is helping me to achieve the UN’s goal of net zero emissions with the wealth of knowledge, skills, and expertise. The course is based in the Sustainable Environment Research Centre (SERC) a leading and internationally recognized centre for the last 30 years. SERC is home to The Wales Centre of Excellence for Anaerobic Digestion and the University of South Wales Centre for Renewable Hydrogen Research and Demonstration.

Where do you live? Do you like living there?

I live in Treforest area which just 30 min away from the capital (Cardiff). It is one of the amazing places to live. I live in the student accommodation which is at the top of the hill. So, I can see the whole campus and a portion of the city from the top.

What do you plan to do when you graduate?

After finishing my study master degree, I have a plan to go back to my country Bangladesh and join the teaching profession to let students know about the renewable energy sector. I will also look for an opportunity to work with NGOs like practical action, GIZ etc to set up new projects and help the people of the rural area. I also have a plan to work as an active member of Renewable Energy Practitioners Group, Bangladesh to create more awareness among people about the positive aspects of renewable energy and not about the study and scholarship but also about your identity and success in future.
carbon savings.

Would you recommend USW to other Commonwealth scholars?

It’s a great opportunity for any students who are eligible to apply for this prestigious award. If you are looking for a high valued degree and life changing the route, then without any doubt I would suggest to apply for commonwealth scholarship. It’s not about the study and scholarship but also about your identity and success in future.

The University of South Wales has been like a dream come true and has been an experience of life time! The University teaches you to dream bigger and will assist you to achieve your dreams. Studying here makes you more independent and strong in your life and career. 

The teaching methods are very different and the courses are internationally recognised; you can feel the change inside in you which makes you more confident every day. The faculties are absolutely amazing and so helpful; it feels more like a family who guide you all the way.

You can get to meet people around the world and learn about different cultures. There are many recreational places like the sports centre, meeting rooms, clubs and pubs that you will never feel bored. Wales is a wonderful place to live in for all the international students as living cost is very cheap & people here are very friendly.

Our university is surrounded with the beautiful nature & breath taking views. Above all this is the right place to start your education & career!

When I first arrived I found the university I was very impressed. I found that the lecturers were very attentive and supportive to students both inside and outside of the class room. Whenever I faced any difficulty I could ask my lecturer for assistance and they would help me. 

I have also found that the sports centre is great as it provides all the facilities where a student can spend some quality time for recreation and fitness. Also the people around here are very friendly and welcoming. Moreover, the nature of Wales attracted me a lot. You will experience lovely hills, beaches and landscapes. I found the place is really conducive for students to study with proper concentration.