Beryl Odingo

I chose Edge Hill University because it offers high-quality academic programs at an affordable cost. The university has a homely, inclusive feel that made it easy to settle in and connect with others. I was also drawn to the balance of practical learning with strong academic support. Overall, Edge Hill felt like the place where I could grow academically, personally, and professionally while enjoying a supportive, close-knit community.

I chose computing because I have always been curious about how technology can solve real problems and bring people together. Computing combines logical thinking with creativity, and I enjoy learning by building, experimenting, and understanding how things work. It also connects with my background in education, giving me tools to create practical solutions that can make a real difference.

Studying my course at Edge Hill has been challenging in a positive way. The course encourages deep thinking, asking questions, and applying knowledge rather than just memorising content. Practical tasks help make ideas real, and lecturers are approachable, taking the time to explain concepts when needed. Overall, it has been rewarding and helped me grow in confidence, independence, and problem-solving.

What stands out most is the support and structure. Lecturers explain concepts clearly and encourage questions, making learning approachable. Practical work is emphasised, and the smaller class sizes make it easy to engage and feel comfortable contributing.

The support I received has felt genuinely personal. When the workload was heavy, lecturers helped me understand complex topics and gave constructive feedback, boosting my confidence. Knowing support was available helped me settle in as an international student and reminded me it is okay to ask for help while learning.

I love the international community at Edge Hill University. Events and activities create spaces where people from different backgrounds connect and feel valued. These connections have made campus more than a place to study; they have made it a place to belong.

I recommend new students attend international events and use shared study areas. Small conversations can turn into meaningful friendships. Some of my most enjoyable moments were in programming classes, where problem-solving through trial and error and seeing concepts click built both confidence and enjoyment.

One highlight was in a database class when I finally understood how tables relate to each other. Seeing correct results appear on the screen was incredibly satisfying and boosted my confidence.

Adjusting to a new academic system and technical subjects was challenging. I overcame this by asking for help, revisiting foundational concepts, and allowing time to learn through trial and error. Support from friends and lecturers helped me find my rhythm.

Edge Hill University has helped me grow academically and personally. I learned to approach complex topics with patience, gained confidence in programming, and developed resilience and self-compassion. I have learned to navigate a new academic and cultural environment with confidence and independence.

The course prepared me for my future career by strengthening problem-solving skills, technical abilities, and confidence. Practical coursework taught me to break down complex problems and persevere when things don’t work initially. The experience also fostered resilience, independence, and the ability to ask the right questions, all essential for any career.

My advice to new students is to give yourself time to settle in, get involved in the community, ask questions, and try new things. Most importantly, extend grace to yourself and others, because learning is hard and growth comes from patience and persistence.

One thing I wish I had known before starting is the importance of extending grace to myself and others. Learning is hard, and progress isn’t always immediate. Embracing this made my journey more meaningful and kinder to myself.

If I could describe my time at Edge Hill University in one word it would be meaningful because it gave me the support, experiences, and confidence to grow personally, academically, and professionally.