Name:
Cyril Pepple
University/Country
Imperial College London/United Kingdom
Course of Study
MSc Petroleum Engineering
Scholarship
SPDC_JV Niger Delta Postgraduate Scholarship
Why did you choose your current University/Country?
I chose Imperial because of its consistent ranking amongst the world’s top 10 universities and its adaptability to prevalent workflow concepts and research ideas inherent in the industry and the academia. Imperial’s long-term history of tackling global challenges with the help of science and technology and its location in the heart of London (a diverse community) also helped reaffirm my choice.
How has the experience been so far?
The experience has been very demanding as the masters is a structured intense one-year full-time programme. My classes are organized to last for 6 hours every weekday with assignments, group discussions, case studies, and individual assessments. It’s very easy to get cut out.
What have you found most interesting in your new city?
“It’s been the architecture, the complex transport system, and the diverse community for me. London has a beautiful blend of historic and modern architecture. Save for my workload at Imperial, I definitely would have considered photography as a hobby.”
What advice do you have for prospective students?
“Planning and timing are very important components of this journey. It is always best to map out a clear path of what you really want, and the steps you need to take to get there. My journey to Imperial started in 2017 when I was still a 4th-year student at the University of Port Harcourt.
After identifying the path that you’re convinced to take, it’s okay to seek guidance from a mentor who has plied that route before or has a firsthand experience of what it takes to get there.
Also, learn to appreciate your baby steps and do not look back when the rejections start rolling in. Do not also forget the God factor in all of your endeavours. In fact, involve Him in it from the very beginning because applying to grad school is a marathon that needs the agreement of all of your being.”
How did i-Scholar Initiative contribute to your journey?
“At a point when I was completely overwhelmed and didn’t see how the dots were going to connect, i-Scholar Initiative came to the rescue. Within a space of 2 months, all my worries concerning registering and sitting for the necessary standardized tests before the required deadlines were assuaged.
From feeling like putting back my graduate school plans by a year, I started to dream again about the possibility of starting grad school in 2020. Not to mention the priceless network of individuals and mentors who have been through and seen it all, and have been very helpful in offering wonderful career insights and guidance.
I am beyond grateful.
Courtesy:
i-Scholar Initiative
