January 23, 2015, by International students

My experience at Medic West Africa

Six months ago, I received an email requesting if I am willing and would be in the right part of the country to represent The University of Nottingham (UoN) at a conference in Lagos. Instantly, despite living almost 12 hours away from Lagos, I knew this was an opportunity I could not refuse. First, I felt really privileged to speak about my masters dissertation and represent my alma mater right here in my home country, Nigeria. I also thought it would be a great networking opportunity. Above all, having received the Developing Solutions Scholarship, without which I would not have made it to Nottingham, I felt it was a good opportunity to give back to UoN and share my experience/encourage other prospective students to apply.

Before, I knew it October was here and I was rounding up my slides. For the first time I would be presenting to an audience I was not sure of. I arrived on Day 2 of the event and was set to roll. My two days at Medic West Africa was pretty much like my part-time day job as a student ambassador while in UoN – only this time I was an alumni ambassador, the venue was Lagos, not the UK and in some cases I was speaking about the University in my local language, Igbo. It was certainly very interesting and rewarding. I answered many questions I remember asking others before I left for the UK. Many people were very happy to have had a chat with me, particularly those who came specifically to seek advice in my field, MPH (International Health)/Epidemiology, of which I was very happy to share.

Getting ready to meet prospective students

My masterclass presentations went ok. Having my a good friend, Felix Abrahams Obi, who is also a Developing Solutions Alumni, present made it all complete. My slides ended with our graduation picture and I guess that made our story look more real and feasible to our audience. We both answered questions from the audience at end of the presentations. The highlight of the event was having a renowned Nigerian Professor of Pathology, Olufemi Wiliams, who was part of the audience, commend the UoN for getting up to the top 100 global universities in a short time. He also critiqued my dissertation, offered feedback on my slides and finally commended me for an excellent presentation. I was absolutely pleased. We took lots of pictures with all participants and other UoN alumni we met at the event.

Gladys with Felix and Emma

I came home with many new contacts and nice memories of a beautiful and indeed rewarding two-day event. This would not have been possible without the support and professionalism of UoN West African Liaison Officer, Emma Tayou and I must not end this without commending her. Thank you Emma. Thank you University of Nottingham for the Developing Solutions Scholarship and for this great opportunity.

Dr Gladys Onyinye Olisaekee studied a Master of Public Health course at Nottingham, graduating in 2013, and currently consults and volunteers with the health-oriented NGO Jhpiego in Nigeria.

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