Wakisa Mphwanthe – MSc Quantity Surveying

Where are you from and what were you doing before NTU?

“I come from Malawi and I live in the capital city, Lilongwe. I was at college before I came here, I was studying to be a construction technician and that’s where I got my interest for the course I’m studying today.”

Why did you choose to study in the UK?

“I feel like it was the best place where I could study in a short space of time but at the same time, gain some really good knowledge. Most of what I was taught in Malawi was from books that are published in the UK.”

How and why did you decide on NTU?

“When I finished my undergraduate degree I had plans to do a Masters but I wasn’t sure where. I went on the league tables and that’s what made me choose NTU. I selected ranking by course and NTU was up there so I applied!”

How did you find out about your course?

“What I liked about the course at NTU is that you get the opportunity to complete a work internship as part of the course. I found that other universities were not offering this.”

Do you have any advice for other students trying to get a placement?

“I would recommend for them to go outside the box. For the company I am about to start working for, I went online and found the Regional Manager for my area, emailed him and explained that I had met his team at NTU. I told him a bit about myself and we had a meeting the following week. I was interviewed by him and got the job! The company, Kier Group, is the third biggest construction company in the UK.”

How do you find the teaching style at NTU? 

“You always have to be on your feet to keep up with everything which is quite good as it keeps you moving in the right direction. There’s a good balance between lecture, seminars, and actual one-to-one time with your lecturers which is good.”

Would you recommend your course to others?

“I have already recommended this course to a couple of friends back home. They’re currently doing their final year back home in Malawi and are looking to study in the UK, and I’ve suggested MSc Quantity Surveying at NTU.”

As an international student, what do you like about Nottingham?

“The city itself is great. I can really imagine myself living here in the future. People are friendly here. I’ve never had any issues and I feel safe. I can pretty much get anywhere whenever I want.”