Our graduating International Student Ambassadors share what they learnt while studying at the University of Portsmouth
Some of our International Student Ambassadors are graduating this year. As the graduation ceremonies approach, they look back on their time at the University and answer a few questions.
What's one of the highlights of your time at the University?
Suzan: One of the most meaningful highlights of my time at the University has been serving as a voice for the community—a community that means so much to me. Through roles such as ambassador, student representative, and being a part of the Global Assist team, I’ve had the privilege of supporting and connecting with others in impactful ways. Even now, I occasionally hear from people who say, “Oh, I remember you—you helped me with this.” Moments like these have been deeply rewarding and fulfilling, and they’ve instilled in me a lasting commitment to continue adding value to any community I’m part of.
Mar: Definitely becoming an International Student Ambassador! That experience really helped me find my place and connect with people who made uni feel like home. It gave me a sense of purpose and community. I met some of my closest friends through it, and it just made everything feel less scary and more exciting.
Ini: One of the highlights of my time at the University of Portsmouth was being part of the international student community. It gave me the chance to meet people from all over the world, exchange cultures, and build lifelong friendships.
Anuja: One of the highlights during my time at the university would be The Festival of Crime organised by my department—Criminology and Criminal Justice—that was an immense practical learning experience for me being a part of the organising team and paved the way to explore my interests and meet the experts in the field.
What is the most important thing you learnt while at University?
Modupe: Having a community is the best support network. You really need a good support network to get through university, so don’t be disheartened if the first group of friends you make don’t feel like your people—you will find those who value and appreciate you. It’s only a matter of time. Keep looking and trying. Be open to trying new things, but make sure they align with your core values. Don’t feel pressured to be someone you’re not. Make space for new experiences and allow yourself to discover who you are and what you truly enjoy. Don’t be afraid of change.
Anuja: The most important thing that I learnt while at the university is time management. While doing my Master’s, I was organising events as course representative in my department, worked as an International Student Ambassador and managed my schedule—maintained contacts with family and friends, and formed new friendships. It taught me to push myself in all the new ways I could and manage my days while absolutely loving what I did.
Mar: That you don’t have to do everything on your own. There are always people around who want to help; you just need to ask. I also learned the value of working with others, trusting people, and letting yourself grow through the process. These four years taught me so much more than just academic stuff.
Ini: The most important thing I learnt is that growth often happens outside your comfort zone. Whether it was presenting in front of a class or navigating life in a new country, pushing myself in unfamiliar situations made me more confident.
What will you miss from Portsmouth or the University after you graduate?
Suzan: I’ll definitely miss the deadline-fuelled bonding sessions, those 3 a.m. library marathons, and the seaside walks where we bravely battled the wind in shorts. I've memorised the uni bus schedule better than my own birthday. Portsmouth wasn’t just a place—it was a plot twist factory. Somehow, between deadlines, surprising fondness for soggy chips and dodging seagulls, I found a whole new version of me—which is just so amazing.
Anuja: Although not a beach person, I will miss the sea and the long walks with my friends, Portsdown Hill, my friends and classmates that I met during university. I will miss my amazing supervisor, who has helped me explore and navigate my interest in the field. Portsmouth and the University shall always be special in turning my dream of studying an MSc in Criminal Psychology into a reality, and offering me memories to cherish for the rest of my life. It has hugely shaped my expertise in the field and is a strong driver behind my current professional practice as a wellbeing worker in the UK.
Mar: The community, for sure. That feeling of always having someone around, whether it’s for a chat, a coffee, or a cry/laugh kind of day. I’ll miss the friendships, the random night outs, and just the whole vibe of being around people who are growing and figuring life out with you.
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Ini: I’ll definitely miss walking by the seafront on a beautiful day and taking great pictures of the beautiful coastal city. Portsmouth became a second home, and I’ll always look back fondly on the memories I made here.
What advice would you give your younger self before starting University?
Suzan: I would tell my younger self to slow down and trust the process. All you need to do is keep giving your best and stay consistent—what’s meant for you will come. Even when things don’t go your way, breathe, be patient, and clarity will follow—just as it did when my University of Portsmouth offer arrived.
Modupe: Be yourself—your true self—and don’t ever feel that you’re too much. Don’t let fear, low self-esteem or other people’s opinions hold you back from pursuing your dreams. Sometimes achieving what you want means overcoming many obstacles, so don’t give up easily. Keep trying, again and again. If you believe in yourself, that’s enough; don’t wait for others to believe in you first. Just go for it.
Mar: Stop stressing so much! Things will work out. Some days will be tough, sure, but you’ll get through them, and you’ll come out stronger. Just be open to asking for help, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. You’ll be surprised how many good things come your way once you do.
Ini: I’d tell myself not to be afraid to ask questions and seek support. Asking for help is not a weakness, it helps you grow. I’d also tell myself to have as much fun as I can.