The community that we build together is pretty powerful

International Students’ Day is an opportunity to celebrate our international student community. This year we are sharing Suzan’s story about her experience in Portsmouth.

Suzan talks about her time in Portsmouth, and how she made the most of her Master’s year studying Construction Project Management. 

What made you choose Portsmouth?

To be truthful I don’t feel like I chose Portsmouth, but instead, Portsmouth chose me. Due to unforeseen circumstances back home in Myanmar I was unable to finish my undergraduate degree. I was only a few months away from completing it. I decided to look internationally but not many universities were able to transfer my existing credits. Then one day, my mum found a University of Portsmouth Facebook post about a Top-Up programme and said “why don’t you give it a go?”. The next moment I was enrolled and completing my undergraduate studies through distance learning. Since then, I knew that the University had faith in me and so I came to Portsmouth to study my Master’s. 

What was it like moving away from home?

Moving away was definitely stressful however, I can’t deny the fact that Portsmouth instantly became my second home. The moment I made it to Portsmouth I felt at peace. From the beach to the quietness of Old Portsmouth, and the vibrant city centre - I enjoy every part of being a Pompey girl. 

My first impression of the University was during Orientation week, where I was getting to know so many other international students like me, and taking part in activities like city tours and speed friending. Next was Induction week where I met a professor who later became my supervisor and is now a dear friend and mentor to me.

What made you feel part of the University Community?

The community that we, as students, build together is pretty powerful - everyone is going through the same journey and sharing a similar mix of emotions. As an international student, it wasn’t as difficult as I thought it would be to find my people. During Orientation week, I noticed students in purple hoodies with a big ‘ask me’ on the back. This immediately caught my attention, and after speaking with them we quickly became friends. There was an instant connection, and they inspired me to apply for the role of international student ambassador so that I could have the same positive impact on others as they did on me. 

Working as an ambassador enabled me to network with members of the University and wider Portsmouth community. This led to me getting part-time work with Shaping Portsmouth, a local organisation supporting the needs of the city, where I welcomed tourists to my beloved Portsmouth. 

Have you faced any challenges?

Adjusting to the UK weather was one of the biggest challenges for me. The sudden change in climate affected my health, but the University’s ASDAC (Additional Support and Disability Advice Centre) was there to support me. They made sure I had the accommodations I needed and that I felt safe throughout the process. It was a tough period of time, where I had to understand how to be myself all over again, and that it’s okay to take a step back and slow down. Ultimately I came back stronger and learnt to be kind and empathetic to myself. 

What advice would you give your younger self before going to university?

Slow down! I was once a person who was always rushing and running after opportunities, not willing to miss one. Although it was all worthwhile, I have to admit that it took a toll on me. It is important to listen to your body and take a break every now and then. If things don’t work out, don’t panic - as it opens the door for an even better opportunity to arise. 

What are you most proud of from your time in Portsmouth?

I would say there are two things that I’m proud of. Firstly, fulfilling my academic journey in the most magical way possible. And secondly, getting a chance to give back to my new community. 

For my dissertation, I chose a topic I’m passionate about. It went so incredibly well that I’m now in the process of getting it published. My department also asked that I come back to welcome new students, and give them a brief overview of how I completed my dissertation - This to me showed that all of my hard work paid off.   

Reflecting back on my one year in Portsmouth, I was an international student ambassador, a course rep for my class, part of the global assist team and had the opportunity of working with Shaping Portsmouth. Every single moment of my student life was worthwhile, and I was able to give back to everyone who was a part of my journey. The University inspired me to become someone who doesn’t hesitate to offer help, and I’m proud that I tried my best to be exactly that.