Students from 80 countries graduate from Heriot-Watt University
More than 1,500 students from 80 countries are graduating from Heriot-Watt University across its campuses in Edinburgh, Dubai and Malaysia this winter.
Afghanistan, Brazil, Lebanon, Nepal, Peru, Somalia, Thailand, Ukraine and Yemen are among the nationalities represented, alongside students from across the UK.
The winter graduation ceremonies in November and December are a highlight in the academic calendar and celebrate students graduating from Heriot-Watt’s six Schools:
- School of Social Sciences – including Edinburgh Business School
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences
- School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society
- School of Textiles and Design
Somali student Muse Mursal Omar is graduating with a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering and Construction Management, following his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Somali National University in Mogadishu.
“Studying for a Masters helped build on my existing skills and I’m very proud to be graduating with a postgraduate diploma,” Muse said. “A key difference I noticed was the quality of education in Scotland, which is of a very high standard. Compared to Somalia, there are many more experienced professors at Heriot-Watt. With such a reputable University, I knew I would have a great experience studying here and would have the opportunity to develop my personal skills.”
Vandana Rajpal from New Delhi in India is graduating with a Master of Science degree in Actuarial Management with Data Science – and has already secured a position as a Pricing Actuary at one of the UK’s largest insurance companies.
“I received tremendous support from my professors, who guided me in preparing for interviews and ultimately helped me secure a job,” Vandana explained. “I also had my CV reviewed by the Careers Service team.
“With my parents flying in from India to attend my graduation, receiving this award in their presence is sure to make them proud, and that fills me with immense joy.”
Vandana’s achievements include receiving a Best MSc Project award for her dissertation and coursework.
Nigerian student and mother Amarachi Sandra Nwankwo is graduating with a Master of Science degree in Global Environmental Change and Policy.
Amarachi said: “While I have lived the greater part of my life in Mexico, I took the leap and moved from Nigeria to Scotland to pursue my dream of studying in Scotland. I have heard great stories about Scotland and how the education system is top notch, though it was difficult for me to leave Nigeria because I would be away from my kids for the first time.”
Video calls with her three children back home – an 11-year-old girl and four-year-old twin boys – and support from Heriot-Watt’s student wellbeing team gave her the strength to continue her studies.
“The wellbeing team and lecturers are on hand to support with the demands of studying, when needed,” Amarachi said.
Professor Sir Geoff Palmer, Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, said: “We are incredibly proud of our global student community and extend our congratulations to everyone graduating across our Edinburgh, Dubai and Malaysia campuses. Graduation day is an important opportunity to celebrate our students’ achievements – and also their future potential to change their lives and make a positive impact on society. We wish you every possible future success.”