Mark Stewart - PhD Civil Engineering PhD
“I studied here at undergraduate level before being offered
the chance to undertake a PhD by one of my lecturers so it
was simply a natural progression. Initially, I was attracted
by the excellent reputation of the University’s engineering
department. I have world class facilities at my disposal
to carry out my research, as well as the guidance of an
internationally acclaimed supervisor.
I enjoy the freedom that I am allowed to work under. I can
seek as much or little guidance as I wish but at the end of the
day my project is solely my responsibility and I think that
helps to motivate me.
Undertaking a PhD is a huge commitment however, I believe
that I will leave with a far greater variety of career options
available to me.”
Sinead Sheehan - PhD Psychology
“I chose to study a PhD as a stepping stone to an academic
career. As a career, academia offers a lot of flexibility – it’s not
a humdrum job. I get to work with other professionals such as
clinicians, physiotherapists, engineers etc. I work with patients
and older adults and I also do a bit of teaching so have contact
with younger students as well, and I really enjoy it.
Part of my research is concerned with how people learn skills
so joining the University boxing club turned out to give me a
really interesting perspective (although I joined for the fitness
not to fight). During my studies I was learning about how we
learn while in my spare time learning how to box. I represented
the Uni at boxing events in Scotland and England and even
managed to take a few titles along the way.
Through my PhD and boxing I have discovered a lot about
myself from pushing the boundaries of what I can achieve.”
Chao Sun - MSc Finance & Investment Management
“I chose Aberdeen because it’s one of the leading universities
in the UK and enjoys a high prestige throughout the world.
I am taught by academics who are international leaders
in their fields. The communication with staff is fantastic.
It demonstrates how much the University values its students.
I’ve really enjoyed the independent nature of my Masters
degree and the diversity of the people I have come across
on the programme, which has matured me as an individual.
After graduation I plan to return to Shanghai. I would really
love to work for an investment bank. I’m open for anything
that would be a challenge.”
Javier Eduardo Garcia – MBA
“Studying an MBA at the University of Aberdeen has been both a significant challenge and a remarkable learning experience. After being away from education for more than 7 years (working in my home country, Venezuela), what a magnificent finding it is to rediscover how studying can change you in positive ways and how the interaction with fellows from a range of cultures increases the size of your world map, both in terms of new and valuable friendships and in terms of cultural understanding.
Not only does the University possess high quality teachers and convenient facilities, it also becomes the door which you are invited to open in order to explore and find knowledge - to become critical and to create.
The City of Aberdeen, on the other hand, delivers what promises, and even more. A beautiful coastal city which has it all: entertainment, art, proximity to amazing landscapes and towns, and, of course, those incredible views of the beach.
After the completion of the MBA programme, I would like to keep working some more years in the service industry, leading a challenging business unit. Later on, I would like to set up my own business: after all, I feel more confident in my knowledge and skills, and I am positive they will be key to success in the business environment.” 
Reshma Sharma - Commercial Law
“Having previously visited Scotland, there was no question where I would pursue my postgraduate studies, having been charmed by the natural beauty and warmth of the people.
The University of Aberdeen is renowned as one of the oldest Universities in the United Kingdom and its physical structure is a constant reminder of this wonderful fact. Old Aberdeen, in which the University is located, still maintains a quaint old-world atmosphere, a perfect complement to the more modern city centre.
I have welcomed the opportunity given to students at Aberdeen for greater participation and autonomy in courses. In seminars in Oil and Gas Law, for example, students were required to make oral presentations on specific topics and lead the ensuing discussions. Classes have achieved a well-balanced combination of theoretical and practical instruction.
Returning to study hasn’t all been hard work. Aberdeen as a city offers a balanced variety of nightlife, theatre and arts, outdoor activities, dining and historical attractions to satisfy the fussiest of the lot. I have enjoyed canoeing, skiing and golf, Highland Games, haunted manor houses, theatre, and of course, dancing the night away in some of the many nightclubs around. Aberdeen is a diverse city, and does not disappoint.
When I leave Aberdeen I will take with me invaluable legal knowledge, lasting friendships and memories of an unforgettable time and place”
Samaila Adelaiye – MSc Strategic Studies
“I chose Aberdeen because the University has a good number of international students and I also loved the mixture of the old style architecture with a very modern twist. I’ve really enjoyed my studies so far, there is much more academic staff and student interaction than I had expected – I’ve really benefitted from this personal touch.
I’ve found the student accommodation really great and it’s good to know that if I run into any problems at anytime ofthe day there is always someone I can talk to. I’ve learned a lot from fellow students here.”
