Student Profiles

Catherine Hetherington

PhD Industrial Psychology

I studied my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Aberdeen. When I finished, I was offered the chance to undertake a sponsored PhD, funded by Shell, in Industrial Psychology. I hadn't thought about the idea of staying on before but the Department was really friendly, the facilities were excellent and the PhD sounded interesting. I'm in my 1st year and really enjoying it. My PhD is related to safety in shipping and so far this year I have visited Australia, Japan and Brunei for my research!

Chee Hoe Foong

PhD Mechanical Engineering

Currently I'm in the final stage of my PhD in Mechanical Engineering.

I came to Aberdeen in 1996 for my Honours Degree and thereafter was offered a studentship to study a PhD. After staying in Aberdeen for more than seven years, this city still strikes me as a compact city with lots of character. Among the historical buildings, which form part of the University, are modern shops and entertainment, which makes the city interesting. Studying in Aberdeen has played an important part of my life. Staff at the University are very helpful to students, and are always on hand to provide expert guidance. The University of Aberdeen provides the best of both academic and student life.

Vidushi Guila, MBA

The University of Aberdeen has an international reputation, which was a top priority for me, but also, as a city, caters for all tastes - the beach is perfect, the people friendly and the landscape beautiful. The course has challenged me as it has forced me to think in broader terms than I've ever done before, which has been great, and all of the Professors have been accessible and inspired critical thinking. Being the President of the Postgraduate Business Society means that I have also had the pleasure of communicating with, and representing, students from more than 15 nationalities. When I return home I will take memories that I will cherish forever.

Matthew Crane, MSc Marine & Fisheries Science

There are several reasons why I chose the University of Aberdeen. I was looking for something that provided the opportunity for coursework before launching into my independent research (having been away from education for some time) and the University had a great reputation. There was a range of study options in the field that interested me as well as leading academics in the Department. I like Aberdeen as a city. There are many things to do - culinary, cultural, and nightlife - and lots to visit within a short distance, such as the capital and the stunning scenery of the Highlands. It also happens to be one of the best weather spots in Scotland! Working in research and a possible PhD lie on the horizon for me.

Orji Akaa, PhD Geology

I was over the moon when I received funding from my government in Nigeria to come here and study for a PhD in Geology, as the University of Aberdeen has a worldwide reputation as a centre of excellence in geosciences research. The warmth and friendliness shown to me on arrival by members of staff and students helped me to settle in quickly.

The University's extensive generic skills training programme is designed to aid the PhD student to gain practical, analytical, technical and communication skills; just as courses on teamwork, personal effectiveness and career management prepares the individual for the challenges of the working world. My decision to come to the University of Aberdeen is spot-on; I have no regrets at all.

Tarin Toledo, PhD Forest Ecology

I have almost completed my PhD in Forest Ecology and am very happy that I decided to come to Aberdeen. My reason for choosing the University was the research group in tropical ecology, which is well recognised world-wide. I have been surprised by the friendliness of the department and delighted with the historic university area. I have had the opportunity to do field work in Ghana, which was wonderful. The experiences I have had in Scotland and Ghana are unforgettable. I have had the chance to make friends from across the globe and travel in Scotland, which is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Krittika Kaewchumnong, PhD Plant Science

I decided to come to Aberdeen because the University has contact with my department in Thailand and I am interested in the project. The University provides me with great facilities for research and the academic staff are also friendly and helpful. Furthermore, the computer and library services are excellent. I usually spend my time in the laboratory and greenhouse where I grow rice, an important crop of my country.

In my free time, I like to walk along the beach and go to the international market in the city centre. There are constantly interesting activities here. I also like Ceilidh, a traditional dance of Scotland. Overall, my time in Aberdeen is precious.

I enjoy my studies and life here, and have had a great experience as an international student.

Javier Eduardo Garcia, MBA

Not only does the University possess high quality teachers and convenient facilities, it also becomes the door which you are invited to open in order to explore and find knowledge - to become critical and to create.

The City of Aberdeen, on the other hand, delivers what promises, and even more. A beautiful coastal city which has it all: entertainment, art, proximity to amazing landscapes and towns, and, of course, those incredible views of the beach.

After the completion of the MBA programme, I would like to keep working some more years in the service industry, leading a challenging business unit. Later on, I would like to set up my own business: after all, I feel more confident in my knowledge and skills, and I am positive they will be key to success in the business environment.