Our journey as Makerere University PhD Erasmus+ exchange students from March to June 2023 at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) held a distinct purpose: to dedicate focused time to advance our doctoral research, among other components of the program. For many of us, this marked our first venture into the United Kingdom. Stepping off the plane, the brisk, nippy air felt like a quintessential touch of British weather. The familiar saying about London's overcast skies took on new meaning. As we reached Nottingham, the countryside's gray tones and withered leaves were a stark contrast to what we were accustomed to. Yet, a unique beauty existed in this unfamiliar landscape. It was a paradox of welcoming warmth amidst the cold, a feeling that mirrored our newfound sanctuary for the next three months. We were warmly greeted by a fellow PhD student, Ms. Elma Rejoice, who shared a similar cultural background with us and had already spent several years in the UK. This cultural connection added a sense of familiarity to the new environment. Despite it being spring, the chill caught us off guard, especially since we were used to tropical African climates.
At NTU, we enjoyed uninterrupted internet access, a wealth of library resources, and unwavering support from the Erasmus+ team. Bonds among fellow doctoral scholars became our social anchor, comforting and invigorating us. This time away from home gave us the luxury to reflect on our research, write without interruption, and gather valuable feedback. This period played a pivotal role in analyzing data and crafting precise scholarly manuscripts. We also had the privilege of presenting our work on various academic platforms, receiving insightful feedback, and forging meaningful connections. Overall, this time marked a significant achievement, propelling us forward in our doctoral journeys.
Amidst the seriousness, our time at NTU also brought laughter and friendship. We embraced British cuisine, trying new flavors and culinary delights. There were funny mishaps, like boarding the wrong bus and navigating vending machines. Our excitement soared as we explored the intricate architectural wonders of the country and navigated its efficient transport systems.
In essence, our time as exchange students at NTU was a blend of scholarly pursuits, camaraderie, and lighthearted adventures.
Compiled by Harriet Aber,
PhD student at Makerere University School of Public Health
