Tell us a bit about yourself.

I graduated in 2018 in with a Bachelors in Interior Design. Then I worked as a teaching assistant for a year and a half. In 2021, I started my studies at the University of Strathclyde where I began a Masters degree in Product Design in the Faculty of Engineering. In February 2023, I started my PhD within the same field. My research deals with design innovation and its influence on decision-making in various fields.

What are the main differences between studying in Saudi and in the UK?

There are many differences between studying in Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom. Among the most important of these differences are the learning structures, teaching methods and the culture. Learning about design in Saudi Arabia revolves around how design is practiced theoretically and is often linked to Islamic culture and history. However, at Strathclyde, I developed my awareness of how to practice design in different ways and fields as well as understanding many other creative methods. Teaching methods in Britain depend on practical application and critical thinking mainly, while in Saudi Arabia the focus is more on practical application.

The culture of the place is also one of the most important differences. The University of Strathclyde is in the heart of Glasgow, and it’s close to the city's events and attractions. This enables students to be exposed to the Scottish culture as well as the other diverse backgrounds in the city. 

What was it like moving to Glasgow and Scotland?

Scotland is one of the most beautiful places to live in whilst studying. It’s important to consider this when choosing where to spend three to four academic years. It’s known to be a safe place and the cost of living is reasonable.

Why did you choose Strathclyde for your PhD?

I completed my Masters degree at the University of Strathclyde. This widened my overall understanding, and it gave me the opportunity to enrich my knowledge in my subject matter. There was a class which involved experiential learning which allowed students to work with different companies, such as Jaguar, Land Rover, Adidas, Nike, Unilever, and Rolls-Royce. In this class, I was taught many practical skills that would be expected from a designer in the workplace.

These skills opened the doors for me to continue my PhD studies at Strathclyde. In addition to the innovative learning and the University’s efforts to enrich students’ knowledge, its considered a top university in the UK when it comes to learning about design. Being taught and getting to work alongside elite establishments industry is an invaluable opportunity.

How are you funding your PhD? How did you go about that process?

The opportunity to study a PhD was funded by one of the many scholarship programs available in my home country. My scholarship was for faculty members working in Saudi public universities and is provided by the Ministry of Education. Their support is not surprising, as the programme empowers Saudi women in all fields and levels and is aligned with our Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030.

As I mentioned, there are many scholarship programmes offered by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to its citizens. For example, The Cultural Scholarship Program provided by the Ministry of Culture and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Programme provided by the Ministry of Education.

Tell us about the nature of your research?

My research deals with how the thought behind the design impacts the decisions related to its construction. It also brings forth how design innovation can empower entrepreneurs and start-ups in the industry. Since start-up organisations can bring creativity and new inventions to the market, they enable the creation of diverse design practices and perspectives.

What do you like about your research area?

My research allows me to engage with designers of various expertise, such as recent graduates as well as designers with +15 years of industry experience. What is interesting to me, is that I notice a clear difference between the two when it comes to thinking, dealing with problems and pressures that arise during stages of design. I learn something new every day through my research and that is what I love about it.

How would your PhD support your endeavours when you return to Saudi?

Studying a PhD at the University of Strathclyde will benefit me in several aspects. Firstly, it allows me to develop professionally in my future role as a lecturer. Secondly it will help me become an expert in scientific research methods. Thirdly, I’ll be able to share my research findings. Since my research is about design innovation there is a possibility I can set the path for its application in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

What is your experiences as a female studying abroad?

Studying abroad has helped me develop various skills, such as self-reliance, responsibility, and courage. I no longer fear the unknown. Most importantly, I became adaptable and receptive to unexpected changes. With regards to how I’m treated from the perspective of a Saudi woman, I’ve received great respect and appreciation from the University's staff, students, and the general research environment.

What’s the Strathclyde research community like?

The research community in Strathclyde is very creative. In my department there is an office designated for each researcher in a shared space to promote communication between one another. Also, for each department there are activities that are facilitated by the researchers themselves. For example, in the Faculty of Engineering we have an activity named Biscuit Box. This activity revolves around each of us exchanging ideas and obstacles and then we propose solutions. We use this as a platform to discuss our research and everyone can comment on this to enrich the content of each other's research. Activities which facilitate considering different viewpoints truly support the overall process of research and in turn, the researcher.

What are the Strathclyde facilities like?

The University facilities are all in excellent condition. The library, for example, includes a high volume of the most recent editions of books. Strathclyde Sport is a new and large sport centre that is home to numerous sports activities There is a wonderful offering of group classes, such as yoga and Zumba. It’s a great way for students to alleviate pressure and stress, and its low cost and highly accessible. The Mental Health & Wellbeing Team has a significant presence because Strathclyde cares about the physical and mental health of its students. And then there’s the Union, which is where most of the societies are based from. There are many different types of societies related to various interests, such as chess, tennis, and others. Finally, for Saudi students and other international students, there is a weekly meeting in the Union run by the Language Café. This is for international students to practice English with British speakers to develop their language.

Tell us about the support from your supervisor and the wider Strathclyde team?

My supervisor supported me from the first moment I contacted him regarding my proposal, even before I officially started my PhD. His support comes in the form of feedback and guidance, and he still provides me with various sources such as books and articles on the development of my research. We meet in person every two weeks and discuss research developments. I keep in contact with him via email before our meeting, to answer any questions I may have. He is very responsive and cooperative with any urgent matters that arise.

What's the best thing about Strathclyde?

The learning environment is wholly comprehensive. It supports its students to develop in a multitude of ways. For example, their scientific understanding, practical skills, on a personal level, physically and most importantly, help to integrate into modern day society. These elements create a healthy study and research environment.