Naveed Choudhury, Bangladesh. BSc Physics

From the moment I first started classes in Sheffield I knew that I would have no trouble fitting in. The initial scare of daunting lectures and coursework overload is quickly swept away by the welcoming atmosphere of the University and the helpful nature of all the teachers. I have achieved a much greater understanding and appreciation of the subject than I thought was possible by me, and this is mostly due to the enthusiasm and the patience of all the lecturers in the Physics and Astronomy department.

The University of Sheffield also offers the best Student Union in the UK, with a dedicated building, numerous food courts, societies, counselling and support, and even a cinema run entirely by students! I didnt take any time at all to settle in, and have enjoyed every year of university more than the last.

Ahmed Al Shukaili, Oman. BSc Physics

Whatever I write I cannot do justice to the city of Sheffield, the people and the university. I really had a fantastic time at Sheffield University and enjoyed working with all the great academic staff that I was proud to learn from. They made me feel welcome and always stressed the practical nature of the courses. Following my degree I returned to Oman where I am currently working as drilling engineer and supervisor for PDO (Petroleum Development Oman) a company that accounts for more than 90% of the country's crude-oil production and natural-gas supply.

Deli Zhang, China. BSc Physics

Studying at the University of Sheffield is enjoyable. The courses are diverse and in addition to my compulsory physics courses I still have the chance to select astronomy modules (or other subjects) that I am interested in. The academic staff are enthusiastic. Whenever I have questions they are happy to explain and discuss additional material. Furthermore one of the best things about the university for me is the Information Commons (library and study centre), not only the abundance of text books but also that it opens 24 hours everyday. I treat it as my second home.

The life in Sheffield is comfortable and convenient. Most student accommodation is located near the campus and so only a few minute’s walk to the departments. The transportation system is well developed and I can access everywhere easily. Also, I have opportunities to taste varieties of restaurant such as Italian, Indian, Chinese, and Thai etc. I especially like walking and spending time in the many parks that you can find in Sheffield. I am sure there are many more excited things in Sheffield waiting to be explored.

I would say I enjoy every second in this peaceful, warm, and quiet place.

Yiye Zhang, China. BSc Mathematics and Physics

Looking back to summer 2001, holding a Business Foundation Year Qualification, I was struggling to persuade any British universities to offer me a chance to read the pure science degree I had always dreamed of. However, due to the limited understanding of Chinese education, the only faculty that allowed me to transfer my major to pure science was the Physics and Astronomy Department at the University of Sheffield. I strongly believed that staff here must be very open-minded and I was so right.

You do not have to worry much about getting stuck with your academic work; the culture in this department is so friendly and supportive that there are always tutors around to offer help and advice. We also have a special study room for 3rd and 4th year students, from where I personally have benefited a lot by discussing any problems with any course mates at any time (and free printing & scanning facilities as well)!

There is a wide range of module choices available including Pure/Applied Maths, Medical Physics, Philosophy and Management/Business Studies. I particularly enjoyed the one named 'Physics in an Enterprise Culture', consisting of Project Proposal, Refereeing, Panel Review and Product Dissection, which ensure that you will be capable to apply the sophisticated knowledge to the practical world.

The city itself is just as accessible as the university. It possess everything that a proper city should have (e.g. theatres, good transport links, and the massive shopping centre Meadowhall), but it's never too big to walk around at your leisure. One side of the Peak District, which I wish I had visited more frequently, is just nearby. Wherever you point the camera lens you cannot fail to capture a moment of outstanding natural beauty.

We can't lengthen our lives physically, but we can always seek chances to broaden our experience, for example studying abroad and make the most of it! Three years of living and studying in Sheffield has truly enhanced my cultural and professional horizons.