Qamar Abbas

Where are you from?

Pakistan

What undergraduate course did you study and where?

I did Bachelor Of Business Administration (BBA Hons) From Pakistan. Master of Sciences in Management Sciences From Pakistan.

Why did you choose Northumbria University? Why did you choose your specific course?

As I completed my MSc Project Management degree at Northumbria, I really enjoyed my experience as a postgraduate. The University has a good vibe and is full of life and energy, it has a good Students' Union with loads going on and a great mix of students. To study on MSc International Development course represents academic progress and complements previous studies on the part of me, completing this course would give me theoretical, empirical and practical knowledge of international development that I need, and would complement my existing Project Management skills and enable me to pursue  a career in the development sector.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

The academic staff at Northumbria University have always been very cooperative, always accessible and encouraging. I have always found them to be very helpful and friendly.

As a postgraduate student, what aspects of university life are important to you?

As an International student lots of things are important like the campus, the accommodation, the staff cooperation, the environment of the city, the facilities available and the support services. As an International student its not just about studying a specific course, its about getting out of one's comfort zone and getting used to a whole new environment and way of living.

What doors do you think this course will open for you? How will your course help you achieve your career goals/give your career an edge?

The degree plays a vital role in one's career and personality. Studying from a university with a high ranking and a good reputation will surely boost one's career and make one polished and ready for the world.

Have you changed as a person?

I have surely changed as a person. I have become more confident, mature, focussed, contained and have started to believe in myself.

How would you describe yourself in 3 words before coming to Northumbria? What are the 3 key skills and attributes you have gained since being here?

I would describe myself as ambitious, quiet and an achiever. I have gained time management skills, intellectual confidence and skills to deal with various thought processes of different cultures.

How would you describe Northumbria in 3 words?

Constructive, challenging, supporting.

Do you feel that your course has been a worthwhile investment in your future?

Yes it has. Good qualifications are always worth while.