Where are they now? Afaf

My name is Afaf and I'm from Jordan. I have recently completed my Masters at the University of Greenwich.

People say that change usually happens when you step out of your comfort zone and embrace your fears and face them. It is always my goal to change myself for a better Afaf, either socially, intellectually or academically. However, changing requires courage, faith and like any other experiment, it is a trial and error process till the desired goal is achieved. After graduation with a bachelor`s degree from Jordan, I was looking for a different experience in a place where I can achieve my dream of studying masters and living in a European city.

In July 2018 the University of Greenwich contacted me back and accepted my application for studying masters in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. Although receiving my CAS number was like seeing that the dream is about to become true, fears and questions were in an equal measure of happiness in my mind. My family had concerns regarding the idea of living abroad independently for the first time with no friends or relatives around. Also, the security and safety in the accommodation was an important issue.  I was curious if I am going to be accepted by others as part of the community and concerned if I am qualified enough for the new educational system.

On the same day that I received my student ID, I met Ms. Lynne Martin for the first time, and she invited me to the World Café and TABLEtalk. True fact about this marvellous lady is that students, including me, consider her as a mother. She was truly the reason that opens the doors for all international students to socialise and have friends (family in the UK).  

About the fears mentioned earlier, by the time all my fears were fade away one by one. Table talk initially gave me the comfort I was looking for in the first few weeks by communicating with others being in my same situation where we all trying to adapt to a different culture. In fact, TABLEtalk taught me that the butterfly effect principle could be applied even in relations where we change, affect and be affected by other`s gestures and traits.  

Living with people I have not met before turns out to be one of the experiences that I am so grateful to have. My flatmates were my support, specially after a long day of lectures. Sharing them my worries while cooking and keep talking nearly about everything till dawn are unforgettable memories. Finally, my biggest fear in masters was scientific writing, as I used to have more exams than essays in Jordan. By the time I have learned and convinced that practice makes perfect.

 

My experience in the UK was not only lectures and courses; it was a whole different world of experiences, challenges, and joyful moments. I travelled, worked, studied and, most importantly, opened my heart and mind for everything despite the endless possibilities of differences. My experience made me realise that beyond my comfort zone was a fantastic journey worthwhile to be done.

My life journey is ongoing, as I am looking for new experiences and a job that is related to my speciality. My dream job is working in the research and development department of biopharmaceuticals in the pharmaceutical industries. I am not in that place yet but I am working on it by taking courses and practical training.