I graduated in 2021 with a BSc in Civil Engineering and a specialism in Transportation Systems. After graduating, I worked for a year at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai, which is a government agency responsible for planning and providing transportation solutions and infrastructure.
Growing up in the city of Dubai, I was fascinated by its comprehensive transportation system. A good transportation system can play a significant role in the uplift of a nation’s economy and quality of life.
And now with a global target to reach net zero by 2050, transportation engineering is playing an increasingly important role in developing more sustainable transportation solutions.
With growing concerns about climate change and environmental sustainability, Imperial’s MSc Transport is the perfect opportunity to equip myself with knowledge to work on projects that have a positive impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Why I chose Imperial College London
One of the main reasons I applied to Imperial was that I would be in one of the world's most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. London is a hub for business, finance, and culture, and offers many opportunities for students to explore and engage with the city's diverse communities and cultural offerings.
Looking at the university itself, what stood out was the high academic excellence, top rankings and how well-regarded the institution is for engineering courses. Specifically, the Department of Civil Engineering has a strong reputation for academic rigour and research excellence, with many faculty members who are leaders in their fields.
Making friends as a Master’s student
The University offers a wide range of clubs and organisations focused on interests such as sports and culture. I joined a cultural club and it is a great way to meet like-minded people and to engage in activities that I enjoy. Meeting new people takes time and effort, and it's essential to be patient and persistent. I wasn’t afraid to take risks and talk to people, it's a learning experience!
The transition between educational systems
I’m an international student so living independently in a foreign country was challenging, but it was also an opportunity for personal growth. I learned to be more self-reliant and confident.
Studying engineering in another country required some adjustment as I had to learn the differences in the educational system which varies from country to country, but it has also been a rewarding experience.
Moving to London as an international student
Living in London is a great experience. The city has a vibrant culture and entertainment scene. From the numerous museums, to the theatres and music venues, there’s something for everyone. And of course, the bakeries here are something else.
London has great transport connections to nearby cities and towns. Trains provide access to many cities like Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, and Edinburgh, which gives you the opportunity to explore different places conveniently.
My advice for international students thinking about studying abroad is to definitely go for it! It was the best decision I made. Studying abroad involves leaving your familiar environment, adapting to a new culture, and possibly adapting to new teaching styles. But the benefits definitely outweigh the challenges.
Imperial’s research network
Having access to Imperial’s strong research network has given me the opportunity to work on real-world experiences and data through working on research projects. This will give me a competitive edge when entering the job market, as I will have practical experience to complement my academic qualifications. Also, as students we are given many networking opportunities that can help us build connections and establish relationships with professionals in our field, which is a great opportunity for getting a future job or the opportunity to collaboration on research projects.
Advice for future applicants
First, start early because the application process for Imperial can be quite competitive. This means doing your research on the courses you're interested in, gathering all the necessary documents and materials, and giving yourself plenty of time to complete the application. Second, highlight your strengths because they look for students who are not only academically talented but also well-rounded and passionate about their interests. Finally, be yourself and remember that Imperial is looking for students who are authentic, passionate, and driven. Don't try to be someone you're not or present yourself in a way that doesn't feel true to who you are.
When I came to Imperial, my aim was to further myself as an engineer. However, I discovered that studying at Imperial has given me way more: I developed both as an engineer and as a person. I’m really enjoying my time here and made lasting friendships. Most importantly, I will keep coming back for the amazing theatres and bakeries in this city!
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