Course: MA Childhood Studies
How do you feel about winning this scholarship?
When I received the email of my selection for this prestigious scholarship, I was so happy. It proves I am on the right path concerning my professional career. Being a Chevening scholar is an opportunity to enhance my knowledge, develop my skills, discover new people, new cultures, improve my language skills and above all, make lasting connections. It gives me great confidence that I have been selected among 60,000 people around the world!
Why did you choose to study at Swansea University?
My choice for Swansea University was mainly related to my course. In fact, Swansea is amongst the best universities in the UK to provide courses related to my field of interest of social work. In addition to that, I got feedback from a past Chevening scholar from my country who also attended Swansea University. The feedbacks show me a university which is opened to international students and a city where living conditions are good for students. Finally, I am a soccer fan and Swansea football club has known some Ivoirians, like Marc Guehi. They have succeeded in promoting Swansea in my country. When we talk about Swansea, we think about football. I think it is time to relate Swansea to its best university from now on.
Can you tell us about your course?
Being an advocate for children and people in need, In 2016 I created an NGO named Kids’ House which works at promoting equal opportunities in rural areas and to underprivileged children across my country.
I am particularly interesting in sharing opportunities, giving voices, improving people’s life and ensuring they have the necessary need for their development. Therefore, this Master’s degree in Childhood Studies is the best way for me to reach my objectives and enhance my professional career.
What part of the course do you enjoy the most?
I really enjoy all my course modules because everything is new to me or even develop my previous knowledge. But I am particularly thankful to my course tutor who, despite the Covid 19 situation, helps me in reaching my objectives, building lasting connections, and gaining practical experience, through his advice.
What are your three favourite things about Swansea?
I have been in Swansea for a few weeks and the first thing that drew my attention when arriving here was the landscape. I saw sheep and I was like “super I am lucky, it seems they have many farms here”. I like breeding since I am also a farmer in my country. And the idea to meet other farmers is interesting.
I also like the city centre, where I can find things I like; hot chocolate, books and enjoying the atmosphere.
What are your plans for the future?
When returning home, my immediate plan is to work for an international organisation, in order to touch more lives and gain international experience.
After five years, I would like to work in the government of my country and have access to high level decision making. A great way to improve people lives and make important changes at a large scale.
One thing is for sure, I will come back to Swansea for my PhD. For me, teaching is the last accomplishment. It is about sharing knowledge, raising the next generation and becoming a role model. More agent of change, we need them in Africa and the whole world. So I will give lectures to students in my country, in social work.
What support or facilities have you found particularly useful as an international student?
Currently my main support is my course tutor with whom I got the possibility to really discuss my objectives, my previous experiences and my career. As an international student, I am so happy to have access to a big library fully furnished, physically and online. These are things that we have difficulty accessing in my country.
Would you recommend Swansea University to other international students?
Definitely, I would highly recommend Swansea University for the excellent services provided, the teaching methods and the peaceful environment.
