image of Natacha

Natacha da Silva

Country:
Portugal
Course:
PhD Social Care and Social Work

I chose to study at Swansea University because it is well rated in the UK, it offered my choice of degree and has many amazing opportunities.

What is your favourite thing about your course?

I’m currently in my fourth year of my part-time PhD in Social Care and Social Work. My course allows me to fight for equality and equity, I can be an activist with the right tools on my side, such as challenging policies and practices to better support disadvantaged individuals in this society.

How have you found studying during the pandemic?

Part of my studies took place during the pandemic; it was strange to see people online at the beginning, but I felt supported as I was having supervision face to face. I felt listened to and anything I needed was sorted quickly. One of our greatest lecturers passed away during the pandemic and it was hard to go through without human contact, we were restricted to attend funerals. This lecturer deserved a huge last goodbye from all of us and we were unable to be together and do so. This was the hardest thing about my experience, it wasn’t related to my studies but the human interactions.

Have you worked part-time during your degree?

I previously worked part-time during my degree, I now work full-time and study my degree part-time, the university was incredibly accommodative of my needs. I have no negative things to say about Swansea since I started with them in 2015 on my Masters.

Would you recommend Swansea University to other students? Why?

I have been recommending Swansea University since day one. For the amazing staff, the amazing buildings, for the exceptional support we get throughout our courses. This is my second programme at Swansea University, it makes the learning process so much easier and pleasant. I have no negative things to say about Swansea since I started with them in 2015 on my Masters.

What are you planning/hoping to do after you graduate?

After graduation, I plan to continue working full-time in social work and participate in research opportunities with Swansea University.

What are your favourite things about Swansea?

My favourite things about Swansea are the people who are so friendly and ready to help, I love the Gower, the views and sea are amazing and there are so many amazing opportunities.