Nanah chose to study in Bath from Ghana after hearing a friend’s glowing recommendation. When she was here, you could find her taking part in challenges, exploring the South West and sampling culinary delights. She now works in an international school, where she puts everything learnt during her degree into practice.
She volunteers on Bath Connection to help current students thrive. If you’d like to do the same, you can register to become a mentor.
Why did you choose to study at Bath?
A friend had attended Bath and shared his great experience with me. I honestly had not heard of Bath until he mentioned it.
I did a bit of research myself and was very excited about the MSc Advanced Management Practice course. I applied, and thankfully, I was offered a place.
Can you tell us about your experience of studying here? Do you have any favourite memories or places to visit on campus or in the city?
I had a great time in Bath! I made friends from all over the world, some of whom I am still in contact with today.
I had to make an effort to adjust to the style of academic writing here, because it was totally different from what I was used to, but there were several workshops that were helpful.
Bath challenged me to come out of my shell, speak up and give unfamiliar things a go. I demonstrated leadership and was elected as an academic representative for my class, as well as the team lead for a couple of challenges.
I have great memories of exploring Bath and Bristol with friends. I enjoyed spending time with friends in Nando's and Jimmy’s Restaurant, the 4W Cafe and collecting keep cups. You can tell I’m a foodie!
Above all, though, I enjoyed quiet nights in my room at Polden.
Were you part of any societies or sports clubs during your time at Bath? What did you enjoy most about them?
I met with the African Students Society a few times, but did not engage much in sports, honestly.
I enjoyed taking part in projects and challenges, such as the Zurich Challenge. They were great opportunities for learning new things and making new friends. For one of challenge that I won with my teammates, we were rewarded with a visit to the Houses of Parliament.
Describe your career journey since graduating. What is a typical day like in your current role?
I have been working as an Administrator and Teacher at St. Albans International School in Ghana since graduating. I’ve also done further study – a couple of years ago, I completed a Bachelor of Laws degree. I hope to return to school soon to pursue a master's in law.
A typical day for me includes corresponding with parents and partners, supervising staff and pupils, engaging with stakeholders to ensure compliance, organising programmes and events and strategising for the future of the school. 
I recently visited the UK with some of my students and stayed at the Polden for a few days. We had time to explore campus, and some promised to study at Bath in the future. I will be checking in on them in a couple of years to ensure they stick to their word!
What do you enjoy most about your career? Has anything surprised you?
The kids! It is a tough role to be in and is the mother of balancing acts, as you are required to balance the interests of parents, pupils and staff at all times. There is a lot of passion involved when dealing with children and sometimes, tensions get high.
However, the warm hugs and sweet notes I get from the children make it worth it. It was initially very difficult for me to handle conflict, but I am surprised by how quickly I think of solutions now. I think some of the challenges I participated in at Bath helped to train me to solve problems quickly!
How did your studies help you develop?
When I first started my role, there were some very important changes that needed to be made to help improve workflow. The staff at the time were opposed to the change because they had been doing the same thing for years. I applied some of the strategies we had learnt in the Managing and Leading Change module and eventually, things worked out. That was just one of many instances where I was able to apply my learning to real life.
I was privileged to work with Property Solutions in Bristol for a placement as part of my course. In addition to working with the best team of people, I was given real responsibilities, which helped to develop my confidence and technical knowledge. I had the opportunity to interview the team and present my thesis on downsizing in organisations. I had a great time and keep in touch with Nigel, one of the team members.
Did you have a mentor, tutor, or lecturer who made a significant impact on you?
I have fond memories of all my lecturers from the School of Management and appreciate all the effort they put into preparing us for the future.
I especially remember Kitty who would welcome us with a smile at coffee breaks, Mikhaila who was quick to respond to my emails and solve my problems and Helen, who reviewed my CV multiple times and sent opportunities my way to help me land a placement. I'm so thankful to everyone!
You volunteer on Bath Connection – could you tell us why you give back to Bath in this way?
As an international student, I was in unfamiliar territory and with unfamiliar people. I had visited the United Kingdom many times prior, but never Bath.
I experienced some culture shocks, yes, but the more significant change for me was in academic writing, which was significantly different from what I was used to. It took a while to get used to my new environment.
I volunteer on Bath Connection to provide some insight or clarity for another new student who may find themselves in the shoes I was in years ago. It would mean a great deal to me if I could make someone’s Bath experience even a little better.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering studying your course at Bath?
My course – though discontinued – was excellent preparation for a career in business, or any other field when you think about it.
To any prospective students considering studying at Bath in general, I say GO FOR IT! Bath will change your life in a good way. Come with an open mind, open arms and make sure you enjoy yourself.
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