When Cynthia Bassey graduates this week she does so with a Masters in Oil & Gas Enterprise Management, an exciting job to look forward to and a new found love of watching the world go by at Aberdeen beach.
The 25-year-old Nigerian didn’t have the easiest start after challenges with her visa meant she completed her first semester online.
“It was not very easy navigating that first semester because of constant network issues back home, but everyone was supportive and made sure I got the best out of the learning platforms,” said Cynthia.
“Overall though my student experience was amazing. I knew Aberdeen was the oil capital of Europe and I critically assessed the content of my course to make sure it met my expectations for an advanced degree, something which was only offered by the University of Aberdeen.
“It is a very prestigious University and I knew the connections and networks created would last a lifetime. I had the best coursemates who really helped me ease into the system and I ended up serving as the class representative for my cohort which really helped me in building great leadership and communication skills.”
Living in the city was eye-opening for a number of other reasons.
“I have always loved cooking and that was amplified here in Aberdeen, as I got to live alone for the first time. I got to learn how to make Mexican and Pakistani dishes, thanks to my coursemates and flatmates.
“It has been beautiful learning about other people's cultures and exploring the city. I also travelled a lot and took advantage of the free-entry museums. My greatest achievement was winning the Best Seminar Prize for my dissertation presentation but my favourite activity was going to Aberdeen beach and eating ice cream.”
Graduation marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Cynthia.
“Thanks to the University and my department I got an opportunity to do an internship at a prestigious energy company and got a full-time offer to start as a Graduate Engineer in December.
“I am looking forward to that, as well as being a big voice and influence in the energy space. Major plans include continuously learning, growing and working on projects that help accelerate the energy transition, and reduce carbon emissions.
“It feels so good to be graduating, I am very excited. Reflecting on the journey, I know I have grown a lot in the last year and I can say that I made the right decision to further my education. I chose the right course and met the right people - here's to the next adventure!”