Eziama Ngozi

Eziama graduated from the University of Nigeria Nsukka, obtaining her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2017. The focus was mainly on small and large animal medicine as aquaculture is still in an early stage in Nigeria, and there are few Aquatic Pathobiologists. Eziama wanted to pursue her career in the area of aquaculture so pursued further study opportunities through the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship.

What first attracted you to choose the University of Stirling to study your course?

I decided to apply for scholarships to pursue the study of aquaculture and discovered that MSc Aquatic Pathobiology at Stirling is one of the courses sponsored by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

I was attracted to the course as it is one of a kind worldwide, a course offered only at the University of Stirling, and the modules of the course perfectly aligned with my future career.

The final attraction is the University of Stirling's ethos to ''Be the Difference'', so I dared to be different.

What are the benefits you found as a result of studying at Stirling?

The University of Stirling is surrounded by greenery, which connects me directly to nature and helps to maintain my mental state and peace of mind; this is one thing any individual leaving home for the unknown craves in my own experience. 

Studying at the University has broadened my knowledge as I have built a more robust network of peers and learned how to interact with people from different places. I have also have improved my communication and networking skills.

It has also enabled me to experience the cultural diversity of the UK, which has been a fascinating experience. 

The blended learning mode used on the course has taught me skills in interactive and individual learning methods. The library provides a calm environment for focused reading and research work and access to any book or research articles required for my studies.

The experience of having a personal tutor who is ready and willing to help you maximise your academic potential is an aspect I have thoroughly enjoyed, which enabled my ease of transition to the University of Stirling.

Career-wise, I have gained immeasurable research and lab skills, especially in using modern equipment in disease diagnosis, which I look forward to employing in my future career. 

What specific feature(s) did you like most about the course?

There were a great number of features on this course that I enjoyed including:

• Looking at business/economics in Aquaculture
• Aquaculture exhibition/field trip
• Career workshop
• Blended learning gave me skills in self-reliance
• Data analysis
• Laboratory skills
• Diagnostic skills

What advice would you give to prospective students considering coming to Stirling?

• Take advantage of the study skills workshops and course orientation.
• Endeavour to attend all face-to-face classes.
• Build good relationship with classmates
• Get involved in the Stirling Students' Union activities to help you to be able to engage with people and explore networking skills.
• Take advantage of the gym.
• Explore the grounds of the University campus as well as the Stirling environment.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the University of Stirling. Being part of the Commonwealth and University of Stirling community has been a privilege. I hope to give back to the Stirling and Commonwealth community through engaging in recruitment, promotion, advertisement and organizing webinars for prospective students of the University.