Aaron Abbott
PhD, Life Sciences

My PhD was funded by the BBSRC Crop Science Initiative. The project involved the isolation of flowering time genes in lettuce which were used to manipulate the time of bolting. My research resulted in the production of new late-bolting germplasm which is currently being used by one of our collaborators in lettuce breeding programmes. I gained invaluable experience completing my project at Warwick which has enabled me to obtain the position of Vegetable Plant Breeder at Elsoms Seeds. The expert supervision and relevant training I received along with the modern facilities at my disposal throughout my project helped me achieve high quality results and ultimately assisted me in successfully obtaining a job in a highly competitive area.

Annunziata Videtta
PhD, Italian

Studying within the department of Italian has allowed me to contribute to a department led by research excellence. My supervisors have provided me with the guidance and advice I need to complete each phase of my PhD. The University provides excellent resources such as the Wolfson Research Exchange – a dedicated space within the library with seminar rooms and work areas where researchers across the university can discuss their research projects and network with each other. I have also been able to take advantage of dedicated training events for PhD students which have helped me to hone my research skills and become a better researcher. Warwick is a place where I enjoy being a member of the research community on both a departmental and University-wide level.

Ben Wood
Eng D, WMG

I'm in my final year of an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) at WMG. It combines taught courses with research work, culminating in a portfolio of documents which have to have industrial relevance as well as being of an outstanding research quality. The course is certainly challenging, but allows me to interact and collaborate with the engineering industry whilst working in areas of cutting edge technology. My portfolio – “Overcoming the Barriers to More Sustainable Motorsport” – has allowed me to work on projects such as a Formula Three car with a carrot fibre steering wheel, using waste chocolate as fuel! I studied at Warwick for my undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, and enjoyed the project work so much that I wanted to take the work further. I’m very glad that I stayed – the quality of the research here is second to none, and the University is committed to consistently developing the facilities available to staff and students alike. Now I’m looking forward to moving into a career in business development within the research community; taking the UK’s fantastic research and making sure that it gets developed into commercially viable products for everyone’s benefit.

Brian Haman
PhD, German Studies

Among the many reasons for choosing Warwick, my decision was influenced by the enthusiastic recommendation of an academic mentor back home in New York City. After completing my Master’s in English Literature (with Distinction) at Warwick, the University offered me a Warwick Postgraduate Research Scholarship to pursue doctoral research in German Studies. The opportunity has proven invaluable both intellectually and personally.

During my time at Warwick, I have been awarded numerous external grants in support of my research, including a prestigious DAAD Research Grant to Germany. I have presented conference papers in the UK, Europe, and the US. Within the University, there are innumerable stimulating and challenging events and programmes, from (inter) departmental symposia and seminars with leading British scholars to more informal reading groups run by the postgraduate community. In addition to professional development and training courses, the University offers superior facilities and support for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. And the sheer diversity of the University’s student body is a true asset; I have made friends with people from the UK, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America.

The excellent supervision and research opportunities experienced at Warwick have laid a solid foundation for my academic career.

Chai Rin An
MA, Creative and Media Enterprises

After five years in the media industry in Korea, I realised that I needed to link my practical experience to academic research. Recommendations from former students and the good reputation of the course made me choose Warwick.

When I met my classmates, I was surprised by the diversity of races and backgrounds. The class was multi-cultural, and this made for stimulating discussion and debate. The diversity in the class gave me a much broader view on the industry. The course teachers are really enthusiastic and their approaches are realistic and future-oriented. My previous working experience fitted well with the curriculum and I was able to develop an academic approach. I truly enjoyed all our Department’s classes, as well as opportunities to attend other modules from different departments, and guest speaker programmes giving current views on the UK’s creative industries.

As an international student with her own family the decision to study alone in the UK and to have a year away from work was not easy. However, I believe that the time at Warwick will be one of the most precious memories in my whole life.

Christian Alexander Mecklenburg-Guzmán, LLM International Corporate Governance and Financial Regulation

After finishing my studies in Business Administration in the Netherlands, I decided to embark on Warwick’s LLM in International Corporate Governance and Financial Regulation. It has been a great decision.

The programme offers an international and friendly learning environment which prepares you well for your working life. As well as the academic and professional expertise of the staff and the flexibility to tailor the programme content to your own preferences, there is also a wide range of workshops, networking events and job fairs which enhance your ‘soft skills’ and ‘employability’. Having sent out my first applications to employers, the feedback showed that applications from Warwick students are wellreceived. Moreover, the vast alumni network is of great assistance. This allowed me, for instance, to get in touch with a major consulting firm for an Associate Consultant position in the financial sector four months before the official end of the programme.

Studying at Warwick has been a great experience and I can strongly recommend the course; not just to students keen to pursue a legal career, but also those interested in other fields such as consulting or banking.

Claire Booyjzsen
PhD, Chemistry

I’m a third year PhD student in the Department of Chemistry. Originally from “Wits” (University of the Witwatersrand) in South Africa, I came to Warwick primarily to work under a particular, well known supervisor, who had funding for interesting and world-class research. I have found the support services at Warwick absolutely indispensable during my time here! The Skills Programme is exceptional: focusing on personal development, equipping graduates with not only the skills for work or academia, but for life. The counselling services, residential life team and chaplaincy are just some of the other support services that have made my time here enjoyable. There is an abundance of sporting and cultural pursuits – not least the renowned Arts Centre which showcases famous British and international shows. My travels will take me to the USA next, to be with the fiancé I met at Warwick, but the lessons I have learned at Warwick will remain with me forever

Dan Beck
PhD, Bioscience

After I completed my undergraduate degree in Biochemistry at Warwick I knew that I wanted to get into some real BioScience research, the only question was where. The vibrant community feel of the campus and all of my great memories from my course made the decision to stay on pretty easy. After three years I had only begun to appreciate the facilities and opportunities available to me at Warwick. During the first year of my PhD I was able to move back onto campus and return to some of the truly beautiful surroundings that the University has to offer. Walking back through Tocil Woods in the summer after a hard day in the lab makes everything seem that bit easier. For my research I am using Electron Microscopy and image processing techniques to produce 3D structures of a purified protein translocation complex found in plants and bacteria. So far Warwick has provided me with a really friendly and supportive environment in which to make the sometimes difficult, but always rewarding, transition from student to scientist. The staff and equipment available are truly second to none, with a host of in-house research services provided to really allow you to set your own work schedule.

Dario Luis Banegas
PhD, Centre for Applied Linguistics

In a way, I came back to Warwick as a result of my wonderful Master’s degree experience. Thanks to my tutors’ encouragement and support, I managed to secure a Warwick Postgraduate Research Scholarship to undertake my PhD studies. This new opportunity has allowed to me explore new academic opportunities in a dynamic, rigorous, and friendly environment. Thanks to CAL’s facilities, human capital and positive atmosphere I have been able to publish work, speak at conferences and explore some teaching in my department.

On another note, my job prospects have changed and seem to promise further changes in the near future. After completing my MA in English Language Teaching, I was offered a position at the Ministry of Education in my province in Argentina. Therefore, I began to combine teaching teenagers in state education with becoming involved in curriculum design and teacher development programmes. Now that I have started my research in the integration of content and language teaching, a top university in Buenos Aires has offered me a post as tutor in their BEd and MA programmes after discovering that I am doing my PhD at Warwick University.

David Lees
PhD, Department of French Studies

Having completed my undergraduate degree in French Studies with Italian at Warwick in 2009, I obtained funding from the Department to study for an MA. I became so interested in my dissertation subject that I decided to pursue my research at PhD level. I was fortunate to receive departmental funding, which has been invaluable since starting my thesis in October 2010, and has also enabled me to get very enjoyable teaching experience.

The excellent quality of the Department’s research and the approachable nature of the staff were especially appealing when I was considering applying for a PhD and it is very fulfilling to be part of such a dynamic and friendly group of postgraduate researchers. I have been able to organise an increased number of postgraduate events, including the first French postgraduate conference. The facilities open to the Department – like the Transnational Resources Centre – are first-rate.

I hope to harness the skills that I have acquired during my PhD to secure an academic job. The opportunities open to me here, including teaching, organising conferences and travelling to France for archival research, have made me feel more confident in my pursuit of this goal.

Edward Hurst
MSc in Scientific Computing

After completing a BSc in Mathematics at Warwick I was looking into postgraduate study. I’d enjoyed computational work throughout my study, and when I became aware of the MSc in Scientific Computing I knew it was the right course for me.

With modules in the Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering and Physics departments, I could use the knowledge that I had acquired in my previous degree, as well as studying new areas and finding new applications for the programming skills that I’d learned throughout the year. Due to the very different backgrounds of the students on the course each module didn’t assume too much prior knowledge of the subject, but at the same time required a high enough level of work to remain engaging. It was great to get the experience required to move into a more applied research area.

I have now gone on to study for a PhD in Computational Fluid Dynamics in Warwick’s School of Engineering. The taught part of the MSc gave me many of the skills required to study in this field, namely in parallel programming, computational linear algebra and computational PDEs, and the dissertation was a great introduction to research and self-motivated study.

Ezinne (‘Zinny’) Anyawa
MSc, Medical School

A decision to do a postgraduate course was taken after I finished my first degree in Nigeria. The choice of Warwick was influenced by its continued ranking in different league tables as being among the top 10 universities in the UK and, of course, huge encouragement from friends who have been here too. Warwick Medical School has been wonderful and their support splendid! My stay here has included other activities such as working as part of the student caller’s team under the Alumni Relations and Development office. The calling experience was a beautiful one – I had a really warm group to work with. I hope to leave for Nigeria to start a residency programme in the Public Health Department. I will miss the beautiful and calm scenery in the university, the ever supportive staff and, of course, my course mates. For all those coming into the new academic session, please do enjoy your stay and make the best out of it!

Freya Gowrley
MA in History of Art

Having gained a first class honours at BA level in Art History at Warwick, I knew that I wanted to continue my studies to MA level, and applied for the MA History of Art (British Art pathway). I was particularly drawn to the course because of the diversity of subject matter covered – the course examines British Art from 1700 to the present day – as well as the opportunity to work in a department that I had grown fond of. The History of Art Department is a small but dynamic department, with a great research culture and pleasant working environment.

During my time on the MA course, I have become a member of the Association of Art Historians (AAH) Student Members Committee, and recently convened a session at the AAH’s 37th Annual Conference. I have also combined my academic commitments with a part-time job at the University’s Mead Gallery, which I find both rewarding, and of great benefit to my time management skills. I was recently awarded a scholarship from Edinburgh University’s School of Arts, Culture and Environment, to complete a PhD with the Art History Department, commencing in September 2011.

Gemma Warren
Post-doc, Medical School

I found that studying in a Doctoral Training Centre (DTC) such as Molecular Organisation and Assembly in Cells (MOAC) had many advantages over the traditional PhD route. One of the major benefits was the MSc year which made the transition from undergraduate to postgraduate much easier. It provided me with all the theory in the biological, physical and mathematical sciences I needed before enabling me to put it into practice through three 8 week research projects in the different disciplines. After this, I was able to make a much more informed decision over the type of PhD I wanted to do.

Harbeena Lalli
MA, Culture of the European Renaissance

After graduating with a degree in English (EU) I knew that I had only touched the tip of the iceberg. Choosing this course and Warwick was easy. The internationally renowned Centre for the Study of the Renaissance works closely with equally renowned institutions such as the Warburg Institute and an ERASMUS programme links the university with Ca’ Foscari (Venice) – factors which certainly influenced my decision to study here.

At this crucial stage I did not want to limit myself, especially since my research interests are broad. This course focuses on the development of the Renaissance across Europe, and one of its key strengths is its strong interdisciplinary focus. I have been taught by a wide range of expert tutors, who have provided an invaluable amount of support and enthusiasm.

It was important that my course encouraged personal development: the Renaissance Centre has ensured that this MA provides all the key skills in preparation for further research.

Not only has this MA built a solid foundation for further research, I have made some lifelong friends who have made the course all the more interesting and worthwhile.

Heather Riley, PhD programme Systems Biology Doctoral Training Centre

Once I had completed my undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences, it became clear that to increase my employability I needed to undergo more training. I obtained a funded position at Warwick Systems Biology Doctoral Training Centre (SBDTC) for a joint taught Master’s and PhD, with the aim of learning how to analyse biological data using sophisticated statistical and mathematical techniques, and learn about new biological methods. SBDTC has links to life sciences, mathematics, engineering, chemistry and statistics. The Centre strongly promotes interdisciplinary science, and encourages collaborations with all scientific disciplines, in order to maximise the final result of a project. During my time at Warwick I secured funding from the American Study and Student Exchange Committee (ASSEC) to attend a Gordon Research Conference in California, chaired by my supervisor. I have also been awarded a three-month funded fellowship at the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), where I will gain experience in scientific policy and learn how to communicate cutting-edge research to a non-scientific audience. I have greatly enjoyed my time at Warwick, and believe the vast array of skills obtained here will help me in any career path that I choose.

James Bukosia Wafula, MSc Statistics

Pursuing a Master’s degree in Statistics was always on my mind since completing my bachelor’s degree in Kenya. I had a young family and siblings to take care of and therefore resources were scarce. I had two things to think about: how to secure funding for my studies and relocating my family to the United Kingdom. I had quite a lot of information about Warwick’s MSc Statistics programme. I contacted the University and got a lot of information about scholarship opportunities. I decided to apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Programme. I got a lot of support from Warwick with vetting and visa application, making travel arrangements for my family and myself, and finding accommodation.

The MSc programme has been quite an experience. I marvel at what I have gained within such a short time. Here at Warwick, you learn from the very best in the field. There is a lot of diversity, and students are given the freedom to choose study areas that they are most interested in, with guidance from personal tutors. Research at the Department of Statistics is world class. I plan to pursue a PhD after my MSc, and Warwick is definitely the natural place for me.

Jennifer Butler, PhD candidate Department of Chemistry

I wanted to pursue my PhD directly after my primary degree. I always enjoyed Inorganic Chemistry during my BSc and from that I was interested in Inorganic Anticancer Complexes for my PhD. I chose Warwick University because of a particular research group in the area that interested me, its excellent academic reputation and the research facilities that it offers to each PhD student. Warwick’s Postgraduate Skills Certificate is another aspect of the PhD programme that impressed me because it focuses on the personal development of each PhD student with regard to their individual skills required. My PhD included funding from the European Council.

Of course it’s not all work and no play! I divide my time between the Warwick Arts Centre, which is equipped with a cinema and various theatres, and the gym in the Sports Centre – a great place to do some exercise especially during the winter nights and to meet new people. Furthermore, the student population of Warwick is known for its high international percentage so you are sure to meet new people as well as people from your home country!

Jennifer Kitchen, MA Drama and Theatre Education

The mix of theoretical work with observation and collaboration with other practitioners in the field, as well as the opportunity to develop your own teaching practice made the course unique and inspiring. I can say without a shadow of a doubt it is the skills and the links between theory and practice I developed on this MA that allowed me to take up my current position of Practitioner in Residence of Southwark Community Projects at Shakespeare’s Globe Education Department – the largest in the country.

Katy Pilcher, PhD candidate Department of Sociology

I thoroughly enjoyed my undergraduate degree in Sociology at Warwick, and decided that I wanted to continue studying for a Master’s and then a PhD. I chose to stay at Warwick because it has one of the best Sociology departments in the country; the Master’s modules looked really interesting; the supervisors I wanted for my PhD were here; and because I secured the 1+3 ESRC funding for Warwick.

I chose to do postgraduate study because I want to become an academic and lecture at universities. I’ve had the opportunity to lecture and teach in seminars since I’ve been completing my PhD. Teaching has been one of my favourite aspects of the PhD experience. My supervisors have also supported me in getting some of my research published, and I have given talks at conferences across the UK, which is a great way of getting feedback on your ideas.

I was also attracted to Warwick’s Sociology Department by the extra social and academic activities on offer. The Department organises an annual week-long study trip: I’ve been to Paris, Seville, and Belgium with the Department, which enabled me to meet people across the different year groups, and to look at the sociological aspects of different cultures.

Laura Sava, PhD, Department of Film and Television Studies

The University of Warwick distinguishes itself not only through its excellent programmes of study but also through a high level of financial support for graduate research. I first arrived at Warwick in 2005, thanks to an excellent funding scheme, the OSI/Chevening/FCO/University of Warwick Eastern European Scholarship. I chose film studies because of the Department’s exceptional reputation, and my high expectations were exceeded. After finishing my Master’s degree with distinction, I successfully applied for a doctoral scholarship which was generously supported by a Warwick alumnus. I was able to secure further funding from Warwick, in the form of conference travel grants to present papers abroad. I now have an Early Career Fellowship, designed to promote interdisciplinary dialogue and provide academic and financial assistance for the period immediately following the submission of a doctoral thesis. The University has proven wonderfully supportive of graduate life: it runs workshops and training sessions for students, regularly hosts symposia and conferences and supports visiting lecturers. I am particularly grateful for having had the opportunity to study in the Department of Film and Television Studies, the highest ranked department of its kind in the country.

Longina Furidze, MA Social Work

I am of Zimbabwean origin and have been resident in the United Kingdom for over five years. I chose to study at Warwick because of the structure of the MASW course, especially the second year.

The dissertation is replaced with a Professional Related Agency Study, Literature Review and Presentation. This gives a chance to focus on preparing students to become professional social workers.

The support provided by the academic staff is excellent. The library and IT facilities are excellent and there is always someone to assist.

The course is intense in the first year, but in the second year there is some space to let students get on with preparing for work.

I was able to secure funding through the Social Work Bursary Scheme, but have had to juggle work and study in order to keep up with bills. I am married with two children and I have not relocated the family to Coventry, but have travelled from Birmingham to Coventry to get to University.

Maria Veretennikova, MASDOC MSc Mathematics and Statistics

Warwick has one of the leading mathematical research centres in Europe.

After obtaining my first degree at the University of Leeds I secured a place and funding at Warwick Mathematics and Statistics Doctoral training Centre. The idea of thoroughly consolidating and broadening my knowledge of mathematics before starting my PhD sounded fantastic. So I chose continue my studies at MASDOC, and I am certainly very happy to have made this decision. For me MASDOC is an exciting bridge between undergraduate level study and research.

What makes it so unique is the research study group work. First, we worked on a project in data assimilation with applications to wildland fire forecasting. Now I am involved in a project in brain imaging. It is appealing to work on something which has real world applications. Enthusiastic and highly motivated MASDOC lecturers inspire and challenge us to unravel the new mathematics.

Coming from a different city I adjusted fairly quickly, thanks to the community spirit! The course is intense, however I still have the opportunity to engage in other activities here, such as chess and sports.

I am now more confident and plan to pursue my career in academia.

Mark Tumbridge, PhD candidate Caribbean Studies

In 2008 while finishing my MA in Contemporary Literature and Culture at Brunel University, I won the first David Nicholls Memorial Trust Scholarship. This secured my place at the University of Warwick for the duration of my PhD; without it I would not have been able to continue my studies. My PhD analyses representations in literature of indentured labourers and Asian presence in the Caribbean.

I was very fortunate that, in my case, the Yesu Persaud Centre for Caribbean Studies was able to fund my research trip to the Caribbean. In 2010, I flew to Guyana, where I met many scholars, artists, novelists, poets, and everyday folk, who made me think in new ways about my subject. I visited local libraries such as the National Library of Guyana and the University of Guyana in Georgetown. I then flew to Trinidad, where the West Indiana Library houses a superlative collection Caribbean novels and poetry, theses and dissertations of eminent local scholars, conference material, and local newspapers. I finished my research in Jamaica. Here I visited the Institute of Jamaica, which has important references to the Chinese in the Caribbean, and the National Library of Jamaica.

I am now in my third year of study with completion scheduled for September 2011.

Maryam Ghaffari Saadat, MSc Cognitive Systems

I considered applying to the University of Warwick for its excellent reputation for cutting-edge research and providing a high quality education. I was offered a position to study MSc Cognitive Systems and was awarded a generous scholarship by the Department of Computer Science, which covered one third of my tuition fees.

The University has provided me with the opportunity to carry out interdisciplinary research and direct my studies by choosing modules that are most relevant to my research project. Furthermore, as a consequence of Warwick’s collaboration with influential professionals all around the world, I have had a chance to attend seminars given by inspirational scientists such as Professor Dan Ariely.

I plan to pursue a career in interdisciplinary research. Accordingly, with the support of academic staff from both departments, I have recently applied for a scholarship to continue my research as a PhD student and extend my Warwick experience for a few more years.

Mohammed Atari
PhD, Engineering

After completing my Master’s in Biomedical Engineering at Warwick I obtained a Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship to pursue my PhD in Biomedical Systems Modelling and Identification. Warwick was my first choice to continue my postgraduate studies. The University has an outstanding reputation in teaching and research. In addition, the School of Engineering has certainly met all my expectations: the laboratories in the department are well equipped for research across the broad spectrum of engineering that is covered by the research groups within the School. Moreover, I am offered the privilege to work with research leaders and pioneers in my area of interest Activities taking place on campus are highly dynamic and interactive. What I have enjoyed most is the genuine international community and the sheer diversity of people I have been able to interact with at Warwick from over 120 different countries. Certainly, I am having a great time at Warwick and as I come to the end of my studies, I am hoping to pursue a career in the Pharmaceutical Industry. The knowledge and skills I have developed throughout my experience here have given me confidence in my career prospects.

Monireh Partovi
PhD, Education

Warwick University was my first chance to experience campus life, while it also allowed me the valuable opportunity of making friends with a diverse range of people from different backgrounds and cultures from all around the world. My background included a science degree as well as working as a music teacher with young children back home in Iran. Therefore, as a person who did not have any academic background in the education field, completing this course has been very beneficial in giving me different mindsets to the terms of “teaching” and “learning”. On a wider scale, I have a greater knowledge of different educational issues in the UK and internationally, while gaining a better understanding about educational research. I hope by completing my PhD in Education I will be able to help children to fulfil their real potential and enjoy learning while giving them a voice to be heard all around the world.

Neşe Ceren Tosun
MA, Theatre and Performance

Coming from an interdisciplinary practice and research background and knowing the challenges and benefits of multicultural environments, I searched across the globe for the most suitable performance-study programme. Warwick and its MA in International Performance Research (MAIPR) was my first choice because of its innovative approach and faculty composed of established and respected scholars in the field. My fellow MAIPR students come from all over the world. They speak different languages and have different life experiences which means we have to make adjustments at every step, thereby creating a wonderful reflexive experience. The MAIPR involves studying at two universities. For me, these are Warwick and Tampere in Finland. This gives me invaluable exposure to the working practices of two distinct European institutions. The creative placement in Birmingham also exposed me to ‘how things are done’ by a regional theatre. The invited visiting scholars and guest speakers were a particularly valued bonus of the programme. All of the above, plus much more, are proving vital to my ultimate goal of going on to do doctoral research.

Nick Taylor, MA in Politics

Funded by an ESRC 1+3 scholarship, I am currently studying on the MAin Politics, beginning my PhD next year on the contemporary relevance of classical political economy.

I chose to study at Warwick partly because of its excellent reputation generally but also because of the academics in the PAIS Department. The staff are among the very best in their fields and bring this knowledge to their teaching. Because of the diversity of research interests in the Department there are a large number of options modules on offer. Tutors are always on hand to help and there is a great feedback process - this year I am chair of the Department’s Staff/ Student Liaison Committee.

I have found a great student community at postgraduate levelbincluding many student-led initiatives such as talks, societies and even publications. There are several departmental events per week often including prominent speakers and the PhD community holds its own meetings and workshops. Since students come from all over the world, the seminars are always interesting and I have learnt a great deal from my peers. As I start my own research at Warwick, I am very happy about my decision to come here.

Nigel Dyer
PhD candidate MOAC

After spending 25 years working in the telecommunications industry, I was fortunate enough to be accepted onto the combined MSc and PhD programme offered by the MOAC Doctoral Training Centre and funded by the EPSRC. The MSc in Mathematical Biology and Biophysical Chemistry was an excellent opportunity to acquire the skills I needed to make the dramatic career shift into interdisciplinary biological research.

I have enjoyed working with research groups covering a wide variety of different fields, both within Warwick and at universities elsewhere in the UK, making use of the extensive network of collaborations between research groups at Warwick and at other universities. This has been of great benefit to my research, and has enabled me to become a co-author on four published papers while only part way through my PhD.

There are already signs that the course is helping me to achieve my long-term goals, in that a successful research grant application has provided funds so that I can contribute to the work of a research group at Warwick after I have completed my PhD in Interdisciplinary Bioinformatics.

Qingyi Feng, Erasmus Mundus Master’s in Complex Systems Science

I got my first Master’s degree in Environmental Science in China and applied for an Erasmus Mundus Master’s in Complex Systems Science hoping to treat my research interest more seriously. Among Warwick, Paris and Gothenburg I chose the first two and started my journey from here because English was the only thing I was familiar with.

With no friends or family here, I thought my first year abroad would be very tough, but it turned out to be the best experience I have ever had!

The Complexity Centre in Warwick is very friendly, though we all have different cultural and academic backgrounds. The modules are well organised and the lecturers considerate and patient. The academic atmosphere is really good: we have seminars almost every week, many workshops and innumerable opportunities to attend conferences all over the world!

I have also gained a lot of new friends from different countries. I spent my first Christmas at a very kind English lady’s house and we established a lifelong friendship.

I’m planning to apply for a PhD in Complexity Science here, because I feel more confident now and I do love Warwick.

Rachel King, PhD candidate School of Theatre, Performance and Cultural Policy Studies

I began my PhD studies in 2007 with funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). I had just finished my Master’s studies at Warwick in Drama and Theatre Education and had thoroughly enjoyed my time as a postgraduate student. I had heard a great deal of positive feedback from graduates of the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, and was excited to be supervised by a leading Professor in the field.

I have had an incredibly valuable experience here. Being a PhD student is difficult at times, no matter where you are studying. One of the most helpful things has been the support of the Department’s growing post-graduate community. In our bi-termly meetings we share ideas, practices and experiences, and offer each other creative and critical advice. The partment also provided financial aid so that I could present papers at national and international research conferences.

I supported myself financially by becoming an undergraduate seminar tutor, and am now Programme Manager on my original MA course. I have been fully supported by the academic staff in developing my professional career and I feel very lucky to have had these opportunities.

Rebecca Williams, PhD candidate Department of History

AHRC Doctoral Studentship to undertake my PhD on population control in post-colonial India in Warwick’s Department of History. I applied here primarily because of the strong academic team in the History Department and the Centre for the History of Medicine.

I have found staff members both knowledgeable and extremely approachable. The Department also has a strong community of postgraduate students, which makes for a lively and supportive atmosphere. Moreover, the interdisciplinary approach at Warwick has encouraged me to think beyond the boundaries of my own discipline.

My work has also benefitted greatly from several research trips abroad, with funding from the Research Councils and other external sources. A collaborative project between Warwick and JNU on ‘Science, Technology and Medicine in India, 1930-2000: the Problem of Poverty’ allowed me to undertake a six-month research trip to India, where I was able to present my work at a joint Warwick-JNU workshop in New Delhi.

Needless to say, I am thoroughly enjoying my PhD. I intend to pursue an academic career in History, for which my time at Warwick will be excellent preparation.

Ronan Morrissey
MBA

For me, WBS offers the perfect combination of strong curriculum, renowned lecturers, excellent reputation, fantastic personal development programme, experienced peers, and established links with major industry players. The careers team here is truly outstanding. Through the year, you’ll hear speakers from different industries opening your eyes to new opportunities and areas beyond your experience. On top of that, you’re offered a huge variety of seminars, personal career coaching and soft skills sessions that will stand you in good stead for the rest of your career. The WBS Alumni Association is particularly active, engaging participants from day one. It’s a fantastic resource at your fingertips with a vast network of contacts working in every conceivable industry. The Warwick MBA has enabled me to advance my career in a way I would not have been able to do on my own. When I applied, I wanted to change my job, my sector, and my location; with the support of the WBS, I’ve done so.

Salem B El-mesalati, MSc in Diabetes Warwick Medical School

Having completed my first degree in Medicine in Libya, I decided that my career would be best served by a Master’s degree from a prestigious university with global recognition. I always wanted to sub-specialise in Diabetology. Warwick University was the most suitable place to fulfil this dream not only because of its high ranking in the league tables but also because of the well-organised modules of the MSc in Diabetes course.

The course has fitted my expectations perfectly. I have particularly enjoyed the way in which the modules have been taught. The tutors and lecturers were extremely supportive and motivated us throughout the period of the course and they were always on hand and available to talk to the students.

One of Warwick’s chief attractions is its impressive and extensive range of academic facilities and resources.

On all counts, Warwick fitted my expectations perfectly. It is a great place with students from different ethnic backgrounds. There is a continuous real sense of being part of a unified community. Studying at Warwick has been one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Shavak Sinanan, PhD candidate Mathematics Institute

It’s not often that you find an environment that is both challenging and productive, while maintaining a comfortable and lively atmosphere. The Warwick Mathematics Institute does exactly that. The wide range of courses, seminars and colloquia, delivered by leading researchers from across the globe, ensures not only that your academic needs are fulfilled, but also that you are continuously intellectually stimulated. The mix of students from varied backgrounds makes the Institute a thoroughly enjoyable place to work (and socialise!)

Warwick is one of the few universities in England that has a comprehensive scheme for funding both home and international students. As an overseas student myself, I found the application process straightforward, and the award was certainly sufficient to cover all expenses incurred during my course.

Warwick’s position in the global research network is well established, so there are many opportunities to travel abroad for conferences and research visits. I spent a term at the University of Sydney, where I participated in the development of the Magma Computational Algebra System.

At Warwick, one can expect to work at the highest standards, with academics who are leading figures in their fields, guaranteeing that graduates are well prepared for their future careers.

Simone Brioni, PhD candidate Department of Italian Studies

After graduating in American Literature at the Università di Trento, I applied for a scholarship at the University of Warwick. I chose Warwick because the Italian Department has a great reputation for research in migrant writings and translation studies, and I wanted to write a PhD thesis on post-colonial Italian literature. While I was writing my proposal, I came to Warwick for a conference and had the chance to speak to other PhD students about their research and academic life. They gave me a brilliant response and encouraged me to apply. I think their enthusiastic description was really accurate: I like the atmosphere in the Department – everyone is very friendly. I would definitely recommend the Italian Department as a place to study. It is an amazing experience for me to be here, and I have gained the experience and the knowledge necessary for my future plans.

Sneha Nagesh
MA, English

After completing an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering, I realised that although the course had instilled a lifelong love in me for Science, Maths and Engineering, I wanted to pursue a career in something that I was really passionate about writing. The Warwick Writing Programme was one of my first choices. I knew that the University of Warwick had an amazing reputation. I also discovered that the staff list for my MA had several illustrious names and to study at close quarters with all those people would be a great privilege. One of my favourite things about my course was the LitBiz event which was held every week during term-time. We got the chance to interact with writers, poets and others who were well-established in the arts, media and publishing industries. This gave me a brilliant perspective on how to approach my writing professionally. All my tutors were extremely friendly and easy to talk to. One-to-one sessions with my tutors helped me a lot in understanding my progress, my strengths and weaknesses and most importantly, in helping me chart the pathway for my career. I found that the University was different from most others that I visited in that it has a magnificently pretty campus. The sights around me were so pleasing that I constantly had the feeling that I was on a year-long holiday. The well-maintained nature reserve ensured that I went running on a regular basis throughout my stay here. My experience at Warwick was a memorable, enriching and life-changing one and if I had the chance to go back in time and decide if I wanted to do the same course again, I would.

Stephanie Dizon
4th year, Medicine

Working with medical professionals and patients at the University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire has given me exposure to various medical and surgical disciplines, helping me to determine my future direction in medicine.

Stephen Lovelady
PhD, Economics

Having graduated from Warwick in 2005 with a BSc in Maths and Economics I stayed on at Warwick to pursue an MSc. in Economics, and subsequently a PhD, to enhance and develop my economics knowledge with a view to a career in Economics Consultancy. I was keen to stay on at Warwick for my postgraduate study having experienced the high quality teaching of the department in my undergraduate programme, and was aware of the reputation of the department for research in my chosen field of behavioural and experimental economics. In addition to my own research, I have become heavily involved with teaching in the department, holding a Teaching Fellowship position since 2009.This has enabled me to develop skills which are essential for those seeking a career in academia, and highly valued for those seeking a career in the private or public sector.

Stuart Henderson
PhD, Film and Television

I studied Film and Literature at Warwick from 1995-1998, learning a huge amount about the history and aesthetics of film and television. I spent several years working in the film distribution industry before I felt ready to undertake a PhD, but I know I made the right decision to return here. The range of research interests and expertise is broader than ever, and the Department continues to be an excellent environment in which to think, talk and learn about film.

Temiloluwa Adebayo
MA, PAIS

I chose to study at Warwick because of the worldwide reputation for excellence of the University as well as my department, Politics and International Studies. The Department is one of the largest in the UK and sits among the elite of UK Politics and International Relations research. The 2008 Research Assessment Exercise ranked it seventh in the UK and rated 60 per cent of its research as either ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’. It is with this high standard of excellence that I have been trained at Warwick. Having a Law background, I did not know what to expect from International Relations at Warwick. However, nothing could have prepared me for the experience I have gained here. The lecturers are ever willing to steer us along the right path but more importantly, they infuse in us the boldness to go out there and make a real difference in not just our fields, but in the world at large. I intend to use my newly acquired insight and understanding of strategic and political issues to improve international relations and help in the amelioration and possibly, resolution of long-standing conflicts in Africa, especially in Nigeria