Student interview
Yawurry Camara is a student on our MSc Control and Instrumentation course.
We asked Yawurry some questions about the course and her experience at Derby and this is what Yawurry said:
What was the best part of studying at Derby for you?
The best thing about studying at Derby was that it gave me the opportunity to gain a qualification that will stand me in good stead for the rest of my life. I am confident that the qualification I will gain from Derby University will be a stepping stone to a good career path that will enhance my lifestyle in the future.
Why did you choose Derby?
I chose the University of Derby because I had completed my undergraduate degree in Derby and was already settled in Derby. Since the University of Derby provided the courses I wanted to do at a higher level it was therefore a natural progression which enabled me to carry on with my already established part time work and support myself without the disruption of having to move to a new area.
What do you think makes Derby different from other institutions?
Having only ever studied in Derby I am not in a position to be able to make any comparisons. However, what I can say is that the University of Derby has a history of providing high quality engineering courses due to the high number of engineering companies based in the city acting as feeders for the University and often dictating the course requirements. This interaction between University and local engineering has been combined to produce courses that enable graduates to move easily into local employment. Therefore in terms of the courses I studied, "Mathematics" and "Control and Instrumentation", Derby was an ideal choice.
Have there been any competitions, placements, industry speaker events etc?
Studying at the University of Derby has given me the opportunity to do my final year Msc project with Rolls-Royce, a renowned global company based in Derby. This gave me an insight into the challenges and demand expected when moving from university to full-time employment.
What were the highlights of student life for you?
There were so many highlights. I have met so many new people, some of which I really engage with and as a result develop life-long friendships. Derby nightlife was great, being close to the city centre with easy access to local pubs, restaurants and clubs. The student union at University hosts many different events, and there is almost always something interesting going on somewhere. Derby has very good shopping facilities that caters for every need, The Westfield Centre in particular accommodates all the well known high street retailers. The student life at times was challenging because I had to find ways to be more independent and cope with more workload, but overall it was a great experience.
How would you sum up your experience so far as a student at Derby?
I have enjoyed my time at Derby University, the location is good, the campus is well laid out, the courses are interesting, the staff were generally very helpful and the City has everything a student needs for an enjoyable time.
What three reasons would you give to someone to come to Derby to study their degree?
- The courses are aligned with the needs of industry.
- The pleasant environment and good location.
- The helpful staff, good facilities and friendly atmosphere.
Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
In a year from now I see myself working for an engineering company, earning a good salary and on the first step of a long and successful career.
I would just like to add that I have enjoyed my time at the University of Derby, it has been hard work at times and sometimes seemed like it would never end but I know that the help, encouragement and guidance I have received during my time there will change my life for the better and for this I am extremely grateful to all involved.
