Why Wales?

"I'm from Gangaren Gidan-Haki Sokoto, Nigeria, which produces one of the highest numbers of graduates in the continent. There is great emphasis on those who graduate from Universities abroad, especially the UK. This is a massive opportunity for me, I'm simply proud to be amongst the luckiest ones to study here.

I visited the University and attended a seminar and stayed in Lampeter for a month before making my decision. During this brief stay, I found out this to be one of the most peaceful places, not just in Wales but in the whole of Britain.

What attracted me?

Religious tolerance. Lampeter is a very liberal place. As a Muslim student, I would never have thought of having Muslim colleagues in Lampeter if admitted, but to my surprise, a mosque was built to be used by Muslims of the University.

Lampeter is the only University in UK which offers Information Technology degrees at a cheaper tuition fees and with the same quality as other well known Universities. Remember, this is the third oldest University in England and Wales, established in 1822 and only predated by Cambridge and Oxford. Also there are friendly and responsive lecturers, they are always helpful.

Spare time in Lampeter?

For most international students, it is always best to find some a part-time job and earn some money. Why should I be an exception? I have worked with ATC Company in Pencader as Accounts Manager, Douglas Brothers as Database Operator, and presently with Somerfield as a CSA/Cash Office employee. A student can easily find the right place relevant to his chosen discipline to work. Lampeter is a place of opportunities with very little discrimination.

I enjoy watching and playing football and I play for the University's main team the SDUC FC. Being a President of African Students' Society, we do gather occasionally to gig with colleagues at nights.

Trips

I have been to nice places like Aberystwyth beach, Cardigan, Newcastle Emlyn, the Millennium stadium in Cardiff, University of Wales Swansea, Carmarthen, and the historical Strata Florida Abbey amongst others. I have been to Liverpool, London, Paris, and Brussels, Amsterdam and I will soon travel to New York, all for Microsoft and other related events just for being an IT student in Lampeter. What more can a student ask for? I absolutely have no regrets choosing Lampeter; it opened the doors for me.

Best thing about Lampeter/Wales?

The very friendly nature of the society. They really like people and are always proud of themselves.

Before I arrived?

I thought I will come to Lampeter and be considered a hero but I found out I was just mere ordinary person. I learnt to be simple and very careful to what I say or write. I know how people are valued and given equal treatment and opportunities. I noticed that you have to be on your own to survive in the UK. How to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

I used to be a regular contributing writer with a local newspaper 'The Path' back in Sokoto Nigeria, a part time lecturer to a privately owned academy 'Netcom'. After the commencement of the studies, I realised I knew nothing to be honest. I learnt that this world is full of knowledge.

What I Missed.

I missed my dear caring parents and relatives, my pretty wife Murja and lovely Daughter Fareedah."

Article written by Nasir Abubakar Daniya.