Experiences of an international, mature and postgraduate student
Wednesday 20-01-2021 - 17:07
Unprecedented times: Experiences of an international, mature and postgraduate student through COVID-19
I am an international student from Pakistan currently completing my PhD in Criminology. My research involves investigating criminal justice reforms, policies and practices concerning foreign national prisoners in England & Wales. Prior to beginning my doctoral research degree, I had been working for international organisations within the research and analysis domain. However, I never thought of myself as a future criminologist. Well, here I am, almost coming towards the end of my first year of research and the journey so far has been challenging yet productive. As a PhD student, I have to devote a considerable amount of time and efforts in independent research and reading. I am fortunate that my PhD supervisor is cooperative and supportive and always there to guide me during these challenging times. There is a lot of support available through university learning enhancement team and specialised library network. The availability of these resources has been pivotal to my successful first year as a PhD student.
Nevertheless, it would be an understatement to say that the pandemic has completely altered my life as a student. While leaving my friends and family behind in my home country was difficult, living under lockdown myself and seeing friends who are hundreds of miles away in isolation is even more painful.
As a mature student, and as a result of my past working experience with international organisations, I am good at managing my studies and life in general but there were days where I was occasionally super stressed and anxious. I discovered that in these unprecedented times, the best practice is to keep faith, look after your mind and body and support each other and the community. Going out for early morning jogs, exploring a new route every day was a very welcome and soothing change. It allowed me to get closer to nature, to energise and appreciate the cool London mornings. This soon became a routine and would ensure that I start my day on an upbeat note.
Similarly, I was invited to a zoom meditation and yoga session by a friend and although I was not sure in the beginning, I decided to give it a shot. This allowed me to try something different, and digitally meet new people at the same time. Whilst it is not quite the same as a class in a yoga studio but its surprisingly effective enough. This whetted my appetite for new learning and experiences. I even indulged in some cooking and DIY at home! Looking back now, I am happy to say this strategy not only made me strong, emotionally, and physically, but has also allowed me to boost my confidence and helped me focus on my studies during these unprecedented times.
As an international student, I can relate to the loneliness people have felt during this time. Couped up in halls or rented houses, it is fairly common to go through homesickness, and a general feeling of detachment. This adversely affects one’s studies and general wellbeing. In such instances, it is important to have a support bubble, a community of friends and acquaintances that serves as an anchor and a temporary family. Hosting a zoom get-together or a house party helps reconnect with others and uplift the mood.
One thing worth mentioning would be the tremendous support that I have received from my PhD supervisor. She has been considerate and flexible, recognising that these are challenging times for my studies. Initially, I was not very confident about Zoom meetings. However, through her marvellous teaching techniques, she has made online learning experience engaging and intriguing. Her immense support has been paramount in helping me focus on my short- and long-term study goals and staying on track with my learning by using different online platforms. Thanks to my supervisor, I feel confident enough to present my research to fellow colleagues on Zoom and other online learning platforms.
Moving forward, with the news of vaccine roll-out and the advancement in health sciences, the year 2021 appears to be a promising one. I am positive that if we continue to keep faith and continue to look after each other and support the community then these challenging times will soon come to an end and the life will soon return to normalcy. As an international PhD student, I cannot wait to enjoy the nightlife in London and visit history museums and art galleries. However, until it is not safe to do so, I would urge everyone to respect social distancing and lockdown measures.
Please wear masks, maintain distance and save lives!
Iritza
