Meet Jonas

Hi, I’m Jonas Marie Dumdum. I am originally from the city of Cebu, but prior to coming to USW I was living and working in Metro Manila. I am currently studying MSc Renewable Energy and Resource Management. I initially learnt about USW from an education fair in Manila, then I learnt more about it through the United Kingdom Education Advisory Service – Manila Office.

I believe that they offer a very good program in the field of Renewable Energy, not just in the UK but around the world. Studying at USW gives me more opportunities to explore this upcoming field. MSc Renewable Energy and Resource Management is a response to everything that is happening in the world today, where demand for energy shifts from traditional sources of energy to sustainable and renewable sources. In addition, the course also is concerned about waste treatment and environment protection.

The lectures have been tough, I must admit. However, I remind myself that the rewards for going through this course will pay substantial dividends in the end.

Studying in the University has been a very good experience for me. The environment has been wonderful so far and very conducive, with library services open 24/7 here at the Treforest campus, friendly and accessible faculty and staff, and technological tools (such as Blackboard) that have been very useful in lecturer to student communication. So far, the course trip to the university’s Hydrogen Research Centre at Baglan has been the most interesting and enjoyable. It is one of the forefronts of renewable energy research in the UK and in Europe for hydrogen fuel production. The trip continues to serve as an inspiration on why I am here in the UK – to broaden the horizons for research into what will ultimately be the next big thing in energy.

It has taught me so far to become more critical and analytical in all things. I have had papers that were good before, but when graded here it was too broad. However, with every assessment there is still room for improvement to which the university has the means to aid you.

I want to continue what I have and will learn about this degree by working with various companies here in the UK and in Europe. The continent, as a whole, is the best place for renewable energy research. It is definitely the right area to improve the world through energy. Indeed, I am grateful that I came in to USW at a time where the world is looking at people with my degree to lead them to the future in how to power their homes, their workplaces, their means of transport – perhaps even the world. Hopefully, USW can teach me to help us all.