Suweiba

I am from Ghana, specifically from the Ashanti Region, and I chose Edge Hill University because it strongly aligned with both my academic interests and my long-term goals in public health nutrition. One of the main reasons Edge Hill stood out to me was the expertise of the faculty, particularly Dr Julie Abayomi. Her research on the nutrition of Black pregnant women deeply resonated with my passion for addressing maternal and child malnutrition in Ghana. Knowing that I would be learning from lecturers whose research reflects real world challenges faced by communities like mine gave me confidence in my choice.

I was also drawn to Edge Hill University because of its excellent learning facilities. Having access to a modern clinical skills lab, a professional food science laboratory, and a dedicated kitchen for nutrition students allows for hands on learning and practical experience. As a nutrition student, being able to work directly with food and apply theory to practice is extremely valuable. I also appreciated that students are encouraged to participate in real research and enterprise projects, which helps build confidence and practical skills. In addition, Edge Hill’s strong graduate employment rate reassured me that the university is committed to preparing students for life after graduation.

I chose the MSc Public Health Nutrition because of real experiences I had in my own community in Ghana. I lead a foundation that supports teenage mothers and school dropouts by providing them with practical and technical skills so they can earn a living. While working closely with these teenage mothers, I noticed that many of their children were facing serious nutrition related challenges such as anaemia, stunted growth, and general malnutrition. I initially tried to learn nutrition on my own through online resources, but I quickly realised that I needed a deeper, scientific, and practical understanding. I wanted to be equipped with the knowledge needed to design meaningful, evidence based solutions, and this course gives me exactly that.

My experience studying at Edge Hill University has been very wonderful. I arrived quite late because of visa issues, and at first I was worried about how I would catch up, but my lecturers were extremely supportive from the moment I arrived. They made sure I felt included and were always willing to explain things again and find time to support me. My course mates were also very helpful and included me in discussions and group work, which made settling in much easier.

I also had very positive experiences with the library and the Catalyst Helpdesk. When I was not satisfied with a mark I received for an assignment, I booked one on one academic support sessions, and they patiently went through everything with me step by step. At another point, when my laptop started malfunctioning, several staff members worked together for hours trying to fix it. Even when the touchpad could not be fully repaired, they gave me a mouse free of charge so I could continue my studies. That experience really stayed with me and showed how supportive the university is.

What stands out most about the teaching and learning environment is how much time and care the lecturers put into teaching. They do not rush through topics and always make sure students understand the content. Learning is very practical. Shortly after I arrived, we were already having sessions in the specialist kitchen, preparing meals designed for people living with specific health conditions. These hands on activities made learning interactive and enjoyable.

One particularly memorable experience was during a nutrition research methods class where we simulated what life can feel like for people living with obesity. I struggled even walking for a few minutes, and that experience completely changed how I think as a future nutritionist. It helped me build empathy and understand the daily challenges people face, and it is something I will carry with me into my future work.

The support I received from Edge Hill University has been excellent. Academically, lecturers were always willing to meet with me one on one to help me understand feedback and improve my work. The academic support team at the Catalyst also provided proofreading guidance and additional resources. In terms of career support, upcoming career sessions and support with references have helped me feel reassured about my future.

The campus community and student life at Edge Hill University have been wonderful. As a Muslim student, finding the prayer hub helped me settle in quickly, and I met very welcoming people there. Attending the international students’ get together before the Christmas break also meant a lot to me, as it allowed me to connect with other international students after arriving late. Meeting people from different countries helped me feel less alone and more connected.

Some of my favourite places on campus include the Hub, the lakeside near the Health and Social Care faculty, the Catalyst, and the library. Each of these spaces has helped me study, relax, and feel comfortable on campus. They made a big difference in my overall experience.

Academically, my time at Edge Hill has helped me understand nutrition at a much deeper level and think differently about health and humanitarian work. I have learned how unbalanced nutrition support can negatively affect metabolism, especially in crisis situations, and this knowledge has already changed how I think about nutrition interventions. Personally, I have grown in resilience, empathy, independence, and confidence. Being an international student has not been easy, but it has made me stronger and more adaptable.

My course has prepared me well for a future career by giving me both scientific and practical understanding of nutrition. I now feel confident translating theory into practice and working with diverse communities. Volunteering with the British Heart Foundation has also helped me gain experience working within a structured organisation in the UK.

My advice to new students, especially international students, is to arrive early if possible, ask for help when you need it, and get involved in campus activities. You cannot do life alone, and building connections really matters. Taking care of your wellbeing and coming prepared also makes a big difference.

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