MEET OUR STUDENTS |
|
Name: |
Faith Gowland |
Study program: |
Bachelor in Landscape Architecture (Graduated) Master in Landscape Architecture |
Country: |
Kenya |
Scholarship: |
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) |
Period of studies at NAU: |
2015-2019 (Undergraduate)；2019-2022 (Master) |
WHY NAU? |
I heard about NAU when I was still in Kenya, through a visiting Chinese scholar. I decided to try it out for my language and bachelors degree. I was impressed by the amazing academic and social environment and thus decided to pursue my masters here as well |
WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT BEING A STUDENT AT NAU? |
The NAU staff. My professor is very strict but also very kind, the teachers in our department are also pretty good and always willing to help. Not to mention the staff at the COIE, we bother them the most but they never let us down. So I’m very grateful to our teachers & NAU staff. The opportunities that we get in NAU are also limitless, including academic conferences, design competitions and social event opportunities like basketball among others. |
WHAT ARE YOUR CHALLENGES IN YOUR STUDY PROGRAM? |
Language would have to top the list. However, over the past 2 years working with my professor, we have become aware of some of the technical terms in my research field, both Chinese and English- thus I’d say that this is no longer a problem. I was also the first international student in my program, so there were lots of first for both me and my teachers. It was a little challenging at first, but with good attitude, a good relationship with my teachers and a better one with my classmates, I made it through my bachelors degree and I’m about to complete my masters |
HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR DEGREE WILL HELP YOU IN YOUR LIFE AND CAREER? |
I have already acquired many skills through my study period that I am currently using especially those related to design. With these skills, I have many choices in what fields I can work at after graduation. |
DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE STUDENTS AT NAU? |
It’s important to maintain a good relationship with your professor and teachers. This can only be done through hard work (academic) and constantly consulting with them. Your classmates or lab-mates will also help you a great deal, so make friends with them. Learn some Chinese. Even if your program is offered in English, you’ll soon learn that knowing Chinese can be very beneficial and you’ll get more opportunities in the future. When you come to NAU, work hard but don’t forget to take a break once in a while- it’s good for your health. You can take part in the activities arranged by COIE, visit some famous scenic sites in China and try some delicious Chinese cuisines. Finally, remember to obey the laws of the PRC and obey the school rules and regulations. |