A few weeks ago, my supervisor arranged a storytelling session with an incredible woman named Aldwyth. At 80 years old, she’s a fountain of knowledge and a storyteller, full of fascinating tales about the University of Kent, where she studied for a degree in Biology before the structure of DNA was a believable thing back in the 1950s.
Listening to her recount the university’s evolution—its curriculum, campus, buildings, and the people after whom they’re named (many of whom she personally knew)—felt like a journey through time. The depth of her stories, combined with her personal connections to the history of the institution, almost seemed too good to be true.
That sense of “this is almost too good to be true” is a reflection I often have as a student here. As an international student from a developing country, where even the most basic necessities can be hard to come by, I feel incredibly privileged to be studying at Kent
Every so often, I have conversations with local students about their experiences at Kent, and it’s easy to see how certain privileges can be taken for granted when you’re used to them.
As a curious and diligent student of the sciences—especially chemistry and the subatomic world—being at Kent has been a game-changer. It has allowed me to deepen my understanding and explore new dimensions of my field.
Here are five things I absolutely love about being a PhD student at Kent:
- World-Class Equipment and Resources
It’s not every day that you get full access to top-of-the-line instruments for analysing samples and synthesizing molecules, like the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Tensiometers, FTIR, various types of microscopy, and even simple tools like the UV-Vis spectrometer. I have friends at universities worldwide, and when we compare access to research tools, I’m constantly reminded of how lucky I am to have access to such advanced resources, available whenever I need them.
Even simple processes like ordering consumables or working with IT and finance departments run quite smoothly here.
- A Passionate and Pioneering Supervisor
I have to admit, before choosing Kent, I was invited to study at prestigious universities in Japan and the UK. But it was my
chosen supervisor’s influence, exceptional work ethic, and impressive progress that ultimately made my decision easy. Her passion for the field of Supramolecular Chemistry and pioneering research made Kent the obvious choice for me.
I mean, have a look at all these recent publications within the field of Supramolecular Chemistry that have gone out from her research group. If this is not a dazzling testament to her phenomenal commitment and pioneering leadership, then I don’t know what is.
- A Beautiful Campus
Whether it’s a crisp morning or a sunny afternoon, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the beauty and atmosphere of the campus.
Whenever friends and family visit from back home, I’m excited to show them around. The campus offers a perfect balance of spaces for relaxation, focus, and even alternative work environments. Personally, I love the lush gardens for a peaceful lunch or taking a stroll by the river when I need to clear my mind after hours in the lab or writing papers. The campus provides the ideal environment to learn, grow, and recharge.
- Workshops and Seminars
Kent’s Graduate and Researcher College, along with various other departments, offers a wide range of workshops and seminars designed to equip students with the tools they need to succeed in their research. From events organized by Kent Union and Careers Services to well-being initiatives, there’s always something going on to help students develop both professionally and personally. And as a caveat, all these contribute to your Employability Points to attract prospective employers when you graduate one day.
A few workshops and seminars that I have attended recently are:
- Opportunities for Extra Income and CV Building
One of the highlights of being a PGR student here is the opportunity to apply for sessional demonstrator roles in the chemistry and forensic science labs. It’s an amazing opportunity to engage with undergraduates, collaborate with technicians, and get paid generously for it. It’s the kind of cross-generational interaction that every aspiring academic and early-stage researcher dreams of.
While no university is perfect—and I’m sure Kent has its flaws—I can confidently say that if I had to choose where to study for my PhD all over again, I’d choose Kent without hesitation. It’s easy to focus on the negatives, but I’ve found that practicing gratitude for the rhythms and privileges of my experience here has opened my eyes to the many small delights of being a student at Kent.
And conversations with individuals like Mrs Aldwyth, who studied here before all these privileges is one humbling and grounding exhale. It is so good.
This gratitude translates to even more opportunities, both in my research and beyond.
Until next time.