Author:    Date:  March 24, 2022  Read:

Name:

Samo Allan Kiprotich

Study program:

Master in Crop Cultivation and Farming (Graduated)

PhD in Crop Cultivation and Farming

Country:

Kenya

Scholarship:

Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

Period of studies at NAU:

2017-2020 (Master)；2020-2024 (PhD)

WHY NAU?

NAU is a world class institution with state of the art facilities where researchers can conduct their experiment and work in ease.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT BEING A STUDENT AT NAU?

First of all, the education around NAU is one of the best if not the best. The school is ranked highly worldwide. The school is also very safe in terms of security. Third, I love the teachers at NAU. All the teachers are willing to help all students and theyir always give extra credit.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHALLENGES IN YOUR STUDY PROGRAM?

University life has its ups and downs and challenges along the way but its nothing we can’t handle. The pressure of academic life will always be there but as long as I’m dedicated in my work and school life, all this will come to pass.

HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR DEGREE WILL HELP YOU IN YOUR LIFE AND CAREER?

Gain Knowledge-while pursuing my degree, I will be equipped with knowledge and practical skills that will make me compete in the job market and thus advance my career.

Improve Discipline and Develop Strong Character-Obtaining a degree takes discipline and a will to succeed. By getting my degree, I will overcome procrastination and learn to do what it takes to reach my goals and objectives.

Be a Positive Role Model. By getting my degree, I’ll be emphasizing the importance of education. The children of parents with college degrees are more likely to be successful in education as well.

DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE STUDENTS AT NAU?

1. Remember that every person you meet in college has something to offer you.

You will meet hundreds new people at college. Naturally, you won’t become friends with everyone, but I recommend networking with as many people as possible, especially when you’re new at the university.

2. Be organized and make deadlines your priority.

Get a calendar, whether an online application or good old paper diary, and write down all your deadlines, exams, group meetings and school events. You will have dozens of different assignments during your college years and the sooner you find a routine that fits you, the better. Make it your priority to never hand in an assignment late. Being diligent and dependable is always a plus!

3. Never. Ever. Plagiarize.

Don’t even come close to plagiarizing. Learning how to write is one of the core skills you will be developing at university. Don’t ruin the learning process with copying and pasting words from a different source. Instead, find enough various resources, learn how to cite sources properly, and develop your own writing routine. You can also make use of one of the many programs and apps that detect plagiarism in your work.

4. Get to know your professors.

College is as much about networking as it is about taking classes. Plus, most of professors will be very happy to get to know you, share their experience and guide you through your college path

Make a point to be always in contact with your supervisor frequently. It might not be everyday but make it your job that he always knows what you are doing.

5. Actively participate in activities organized by your university/faculty.

These events are a great opportunity to get to know your classmates, professors and professionals better, but also to learn interesting things.

6. Take good care of your health.

Taking good care of your body and mind is essential every day of your life, but even more when you get to start a brand new chapter at a university, often miles away from your family and home. It is important to keep a healthy lifestyle, eat enough fruits and veggies, drink enough water, sleep well and exercise often. Especially in the times of global pandemic. Bottom line: Your health is the foundation for everything else, so don’t neglect it.