April 15, 2020, by International students

International Student Ambassadors: Lutfiah from Indonesia

Lutfiah is an Indonesian student who is studying BSc Chemical Engineering with Environmental Engineering

Why did you choose the University of Nottingham?

I chose the University of Nottingham mainly because of my current course. The university is one of the very few institutions in the world that offers Environmental Engineering in the Chemical Engineering department, as the course is typically offered in the Civil Engineering department. In addition to this, as I started my studies through the foundation course, I found it very appealing that all foundation students are guaranteed a spot in whatever their chosen undergraduate course is, provided that the passing criteria is met.

What is your favourite thing about the University of Nottingham?

With so much to offer, the thing that I like most about the University (more specifically University Park) has got to be how green and connected you are to nature. From strolls around the campus to kayak rides on the lake during warmer days, it is such a relief to have a change of scenery to break the day-to-day routine. Other than this, I also like how the university is a campus university, where everything is situated on one site. Be it Boots Pharmacy or the library, everything is within walking distance.

What is the best thing about your course?

The range of modules that my course offers in the University of Nottingham is probably the best thing about my course. I like how my course is both Chemical Engineering and Environmental Engineering integrated into one and can be done in only 3 years! Other than this, the immense support that I get from the staff on this course, together with the materials given definitely helps me get through the semester. The department also focuses on the employability aspect of the course, in which I think is very important for life after graduation.

What do you do with your spare time, and what are your hobbies?

With spending most of the hours on campus, I value my spare time very much. When the weekend approaches, I always take a day off to go grocery shopping, and then cook. I didn’t know how to cook before flying to the UK for uni, but now, I do find it very therapeutic. On the weekends where I am not too busy, I’d usually go gliding with the university’s gliding society. The airfield is an hour-drive from Nottingham.

What is your experience of accommodation in Nottingham?

I live in a private student accommodation located in the City Centre. The rooms in the accommodation (Study Inn) that I’m currently staying at for the past 2 years are all en-suite studios. So far, my stay has been outstanding, and with the lovely staff making my time here in Nottingham more enjoyable. My advice is to start considering your accommodation for the next year as soon as semester 2 starts due to the high demand of student accommodation in Nottingham, especially if you’re looking for a studio in private student accommodations.

What would be your top tips for a new international student starting at the University of Nottingham in their first year?

I highly suggest you get yourself involved. There are a lot of events and trips happening during Fresher’s week and even throughout your time here. There are also over 100 societies that you can join, and you can join as much or as little as you want. These are some ways to connect and build friendship with people in the university. But don’t worry too much about it. You’ll meet amazing people along your university journey. And lastly, amidst the exciting beginning to your university experience, don’t forget to empty a slot of your day for self-care.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on Google+
• Share on LinkedIn