Hamad Abulaaj

Msc Construction Management

I spoke to a friend of mine who was studying a PhD at Sheffield Hallam and he recommended it. One of the course leaders phoned me and helped me to select the most appropriate course, having considered my employment history and future goals.

As you might expect, the cultural difference between the UK and Libya is great and it takes some time to get used to it. There is a sizeable Libyan and Arab community in Sheffield and it has been very useful for myself and my family to meet other Libyans and has made settling in easier.

The course is certainly hard work but I can honestly say that I am enjoying it.

Abdul Khanfer

PhD Organic Food Production

I first heard of Sheffield Hallam from an academic colleague at the university where I worked. He also studied here and spoke very highly of it.

Sheffield is a destination that I had heard a lot about and it suits me well. It is a fairly quiet city compared to London but it is friendly, has good amenities and provides a good study environment. Cost of living, including rent, is also considerably lower than elsewhere in the UK.

My wife and four children accompanied me to Sheffield and I've found facilities for families here are excellent. The presence of a Libyan school in Sheffield is another key issue. It allows my children to benefit from an English education while maintaining their Libyan roots and remembering the Arabic language.