Frances Mary E. Ukpokolo – MSc Design: Products and Technology

Frances Mary E. Ukpokolo – Nigeria

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

Product design is a significant branch of design that can have a significant impact on people’s lives, and it is something I have always wanted to be a part of. I chose NTU because of the outstanding employability support team, which demonstrated that they cared about students’ current situation, as well as their careers and future objectives, and are willing to assist in making that transition much simpler.

Tell us about your background and what you studied prior to continuing into postgraduate studies.

I am a Nigerian who visited the United Kingdom for the first time in September 2021. I graduated from the University of Ibadan’s Industrial and Production Engineering Department in 2019 and worked for one and a half years with my co-founder at Comestibles Ltd., a Nigerian food supply business start-up. I began designing as a graphics designer in 2015 and transitioned to UI/UX design in 2020. My preference had always been for aesthetically and functionally pleasant systems and products, and the UK (United Kingdom) was the only location I knew I could find that excellent combination. I appreciate designing systems and adhering to the philosophy of inclusive design.

Does the “real” NTU match what you’d imagined? How does it compare with your friends’ experience at other universities?

To be honest, I am not envious of my peers at other schools. Either they aren’t telling me about their school’s positive aspects, or my NTU is simply the ideal place for me. Although it can be daunting because it appears that a two-year MSc has been compressed into one year, I have genuinely enjoyed every day here, particularly the teaching style in my course, which continually challenges you to be more creative, inventive, and to reveal your genuine self.

How would you promote NTU to potential students in 10 words or fewer?

NTU = Outstanding employment opportunities, excellent skill acquisition, fantastic support system.

Why did you want to study in the UK?

I was accepted to nine prestigious universities in the United Kingdom, including NTU. I compared the design curriculum, the university’s professional connections and network, student resources, and life outside the classroom of NTU to the other eight universities, and they didn’t cut it for me as much as NTU did.

How Is NTU for international students?

Since I arrived, I haven’t felt like an international student, or should I say, different. I understand that everyone’s experience is different, but when I look around, I see students from my country with whom I can easily connect, the university provides several platforms to help international students feel at ease (such as the Global Lounge), and mixing with UK citizens or others from other countries is simple and enjoyable. I’ve seen a lot of Nigerians here, but I now have a lot of Asian and UK pals, which I love.

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