Onder Canbulat, from Turkey, is studying a PhD in our Department Of Naval Architecture, Ocean & Marine Engineering. Find out what he enjoys about Strathclyde...
How did you first hear about the University of Strathclyde?
I did research about universities which have a department with Marine Transport related subjects. I came up with a list and Strathclyde was one of the strongest one in my list.
Why did you choose to study at Strathclyde?
When I completed my MSc in London, I decided that I need a good research centre in my area to do my PhD. Strathclyde was the first option for me because the University has the largest research group in my research field in the entire UK. Their response time also impressed me as well. I always got responses in a very short time after my applications and emails. I came to visit Glasgow and met with some of the researchers with my friend. I have been to Scotland once before I visited Glasgow and I love the country as well. These led me to choose Strathclyde.
What do you like most about studying at Strathclyde?
I like the friendly support from academics and staff. I also like the people around me.
What do you do in your spare time?
I am trying to help upcoming students and my friends. I am voluntarily working for University events and ATAS (Association of Turkish Alumni and Students in Scotland). We established ATAS a few years ago with my friends from Strathclyde University. We are aiming to gather students and alumni to contribute to them and the country as a charity. My main aim is to raise a scholarship for upcoming female students from Turkey who would like to study in Scotland with a lack of financial support. I hope I will manage to aim my ambition with ATAS and Scottish Universities` support to get enough donation for each university for this purpose. I think studying is a great privilege for most students. We must be thankful and make this opportunity available for people who really want to study here in Scotland.
What has been a highlight or highlights of your time so far?
I think networking is the biggest highlight. While I am studying, I have connections around the world and most of them are nice connections, which I can hardly find elsewhere.
I think it is very true to say that 'people make Glasgow'.
What do you like about Glasgow?
I think Glasgow is the perfect city for students because it is reasonable to compare to most of the cities in the UK in terms of expenses. It is very compact and life full city. Students can find all sort of events all around the year.
How have you found the facilities at Strathclyde?
I do believe that the university has a perfect location in the heart of the city. There are many facilities for students like the very large library, lecture rooms, labs and carrier centre and many more. In addition, we have great sports facilities.
Would you recommend Strathclyde to other people and why?
I strongly recommend them. One of the reason is the university is very supportive. The second reason is it is easy to settle in Glasgow with your family if you are married. This city and university also give my wife a chance to do MSc while I am studying for my PhD. Therefore, the university is also family-friendly in most of the cases.
What are your plans for the future?
I will be a lecturer. I am planning to do a Post Doctorate study. Then, I will work as an academy for a few years while I established my own business. I also plan to work for NGOs.
Any other comments?
While you are studying at Strathclyde, you will understand that nothing is impossible. I can say that this is the place of dream makers.
