Queen's University Belfast

Nurfauza Jali

PhD student in the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Queen’s.

Nurfauza, where are you from?

I come from Malaysia.

Why did you decide to come to Queen's?

I came to Queen’s to gain an internationally recognised qualification, aside from improving my English language skills and to experience another culture. It was also recommended to me by a close friend who is currently studying at Queen’s. At the same time, I was fortunate to find a supervisor who carried out research in the area I was interested in.

Tell me about your academic experience at Queen's?

Queen's University has provided me with a wonderful educational and social experience.
I have a sole-use desk space with networked computer within the department for the duration of the candidature. I have supportive supervisors who have helped me to remain motivated through difficulties and who provided strong mentoring with networking opportunities.

I have positive experiences of academic collegiality and acceptance as a valued member of the School. I have also had the opportunity to develop a broad range of academic research and other career skills through the Postgraduate Researcher Development Programme in the University. Queen’s International and Postgraduate Centre also provide a range of support services and extensive facilities for students who need the right support, information and advice, knowledge and even skills.

What do you get up to in your spare time?

I enjoy walking in Botanic Gardens near Queen’s University and another park nearby during the spring and summer time. I also take my family to the Queen’s Physical Education Centre (PEC) for a kids swimming session at weekends, which offers affordable and reasonable monthly fees for the family.

What is it like living in Belfast?

Belfast is a beautiful and exciting city and the people here are kind and welcoming. I have enjoyed the parks, gardens, museum, leisure complex and nature of Northern Ireland. It is like falling in love at the first sight when you see the beautiful scenery of Northern Ireland especially the Giant Causeway’s tourist attraction.

What are your plans for the future?

In the future, after completing my PhD degree, I will be continuing my service under my sponsors; Malaysia Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). Service involves duty as an academic lecturer and researcher under the Faculty of Computer Science and Information technology.

Working in an academic background typically combines research, teaching, administrative and leadership responsibilities and these capabilities will lead to an excellent profession in both academician and researcher. My other goal is to take part in University’s knowledge transfer activities with business and industry under a consultation service.