When I first joined the University of Manchester in September 2018 I expected to have a walk over with my studies. It was not as easy as I thought; I realised I had to work hard every day, I have to read and show my progresses on a weekly basis as well as complete the semester assignments by writing essays.
I enjoyed the introductory session and it felt nice to be at the University of Manchester. The environment was very conducive for learning; our lecturers were very helpful. They took us through the lessons at a speed that was helpful and accommodative, they explained the difficult areas and were available for questions and clarification. The computer lab was just amazing. I loved the size of the computers and the speed at which they delivered information. I’ve never experienced that before. In my setting (Nairobi) technology was not that advanced and sometimes frustration could overtake the willingness to use it.
As time has gone by, I have found things are a little different. I have discovered a forest of information on research at the University of Manchester. I know that research is quite wide, but not to the extent that I have experienced at this university.
Being enrolled to an on-line MSc means that I do not meet my lecturers on a daily basis. This has been my main challenge, however my learning has not been affected because I am getting tremendous support both online and by my colleagues in Kenya.
During my most recent visit to Manchester, I enjoyed the winter class. It was quite informative and I was able to integrate the new contents with the previous sessions taken online. I have managed to build my research skills including interviewing, writing a research proposal, completing a critical appraisal and an evidence synthesis, collecting quantitative data and much more. I believe that this is going to enhance my opportunities to work in research-related areas in the future.
I’m glad of being offered the opportunity to undertake this master and I am deeply grateful to the lecturers, to my supervisors (in Kenya and in the UK) and to the Funder (NIHR).