Feyintola Olasupo

I’m from Nigeria, and I chose Edge Hill University because of its reputation for academics and research. Another reason was the support system. I read a lot of good reviews online about Edge Hill, and that really influenced my decision.

I chose the Masters in Research because it gives me the tools to become a researcher and provides the foundation I will need for a PhD. I’m currently working on my research project, and I can confidently say I made the right decision.

Studying at Edge Hill has been a beautiful experience, to be very honest. From the very first day I stepped on campus, it felt blissful. Every staff member I have interacted with has been happy to help. Everyone here genuinely wants you to succeed.

What really stands out about the teaching and learning environment is how intentional it feels. It’s not like the regular teaching I was used to. At Edge Hill, teaching feels like a carefully planned process. The lectures are always interesting and interactive.

Research is quite different from a regular master’s degree, and I remember my first class clearly. Our lecturer took time to help us understand the kind of academic terrain we were stepping into and reassured us that there are many support systems in place. That made a big difference for me.

The campus community is honestly very welcoming. Moving from Nigeria, I was a bit worried about how I would fit in, but it has been a really inclusive experience from the start. It doesn’t feel like a cold or massive institution. It feels like a proper community where people actually look out for each other. There is a good balance too. It’s quiet enough to focus on your work, but there is always something happening if you want to take a break and meet new people.

I would definitely recommend spending time at The Catalyst. As an MRes student, it’s basically my second home and the perfect place for deep, focused work. When I need a break, walking around the lake or the green spaces on campus really helps clear my head. I would also recommend attending international student events, as they make it much easier to settle in and meet people who are in the same situation.
One of the most memorable experiences for me was that initial feeling when I first arrived on campus. It felt right straight away. The one-on-one sessions with staff have also been a highlight. Realising that lecturers are genuinely excited to help you succeed and are not just there to tick a box makes a huge difference.

A major highlight for me was when my research proposal really started to come together. Coming here with the goal of eventually doing a PhD, it was a proud and reassuring moment to see my ideas take shape with the guidance of my supervisors. It felt like the bridge between having a dream and actually making it real in a professional academic setting.

The biggest challenge for me was adapting to a new country and a new way of studying at the same time. It can feel overwhelming. I overcame this by being open and asking for help. I quickly realised that at Edge Hill, you don’t have to struggle in silence. Every time I reached out, staff were happy to support me, which made the transition much easier than I expected.

Academically, my time here has taught me to think much more critically. It’s not just about reading anymore, but about learning how to contribute something new. Personally, I’ve become much more confident. Moving across the world to pursue research is a big step, and doing it in such a supportive environment has shown me that I am ready for the challenge of a PhD.

Since my goal is to become a professional researcher and complete a PhD, this MRes has been exactly what I needed. It has given me the toolkit, including research methods, theory, and academic discipline. I no longer feel like just a student. I feel like I am starting to develop the professional identity of a researcher.

The most valuable opportunity for me has been being part of the research community at Edge Hill. Sitting down with experienced academics and receiving feedback on my work has been incredibly valuable. It has given me a real insight into what life in academia is actually like.

My advice to new or prospective students is not to be shy. Talk to the people around you and definitely talk to the staff. They are very approachable and genuinely want to see you do well. Also, make the most of the facilities from day one. Whether it’s the library or student support services, those resources are there to help you.

One thing I wish I had known before starting is just how supportive the environment would be. I spent a lot of time researching before I arrived and still felt some anxiety about whether I would be supported enough. Knowing how welcoming and helpful the staff and wider community are would have saved me a lot of stress.

If I had to describe my time at Edge Hill University in one word, it would be transformative.