Reth Pheng

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I chose the University of Westminster to pursue a Master's degree in International Development Management because of its course curriculum, which attracted me. I reviewed the Westminster Business School’s website and course programme, which included a variety of activities such as practical experience and frameworks to deepen my knowledge in development management, governance, planning, and the critical skill to evaluate national and international economic, political and social factors affecting development policy. Despite having years of experience in development jobs, I found that this offered me a much broader perspective, new frameworks and more critical thinking to build on my leadership aspiration in my development career.

How has your experience been studying in London?

Studying in London has been a great lifetime experience, this city has a lot to offer. This includes the diversity of culture, arts and architecture, museums which are free for entry, and of course foods from all over the world. London also has many green parks where I have enjoyed walking after class and on weekends. The public transport in London is super convenient; the tube and trains are all well connected, and they will take you to where you want to go.

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

This course is relevant to my experiences. Most of the study subjects provide real examples for us to work on, such as managing development intervention, current issues in international development, innovation and sustainability management. Research methodologies and managing data are also practical, where the school provides students with access to various applications and labs for our practices, such as NVivo and SPSS. I strongly recommend the course for those aspiring to work in development management with an international or government development agency.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

This is also what I like about being a student at the university; there is always someone ready to support and guide you when you face challenges. Apart from having lectures, and practical sessions, the lecturers also allocate time slots for one-to-one support. I took this opportunity to better understand the course assignments, and I found this very supportive.

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

I gained a PRINCE2® Foundation Certificate, which enhanced my CV in project management. The study of the United Nations was another added value to enhance my understanding of current development issues. Moreover, I was able to register as a member of the Development Studies Association based in London, and obtain a complimentary subscription to the Financial Times, Devex, and other online and offline resources using my student ID.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course

I wisely used my time while I studied at Westminster, and as a Cambodian recipient of the Chevening Scholarship. I have built relationships and made connections with my classmates and other scholars from around the world. We went out for meals or to watch movies together, walked in London’s green parks such as Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill, and Hyde Park. I have also travelled around the United Kingdom and some European countries, where I got to meet and visit friends abroad; this was amazing to learn about local cultures. My experience studying in the UK has been fantastic, not only for academia but also for personal growth, global professional connection, and networking.

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

The University of Westminster has a couple of campuses located in London, and they offer various courses. I studied at Westminster Business School in the heart of the beautiful city of London, which is close to many places such as Oxford Street, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. If you are looking for inclusivity and diversity, then Westminster is a good choice. Furthermore, there is plenty of support provided to you throughout your student journey.

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

It was a golden opportunity given to me by Chevening to study in the United Kingdom at the University of Westminster, which is extraordinary for me. I cannot be grateful enough for being at Westminster, where I learned from lecturers from various practice backgrounds. The University always has someone ready to guide you in academic, personal or professional development.

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

Despite having the opportunity to study at a world-class university in the United Kingdom, I was not entirely confident and was nervous about pursuing my Master’s degree. However, it turns out that the University of Westminster has various services to support students through their student journey. This includes academic skills such as writing essays, a dissertation, and several personal and professional development workshops. In the end, I made it through, graduating with Distinction!