Name:

Samuel Mbugua Nyambura

Study program:

Master in Agricultural Mechanization Engineering (Graduated)

PhD in Agricultural Mechanization Engineering

Country:

Kenya

Scholarship:

Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

Period of studies at NAU:

2017-2020(Master); 2020-2024(PhD)

WHY NAU?

Founded in the spirit of scientific excellence and discovery, Nanjing Agricultural University encourages students to share their perspectives, develop their interests, and pursue new experiences.NAU is a uniquely innovative, collaborative, and cheerful platform that exudes intellectual diversity like none other. With more than 200 programs of study and internationally renowned tutors guiding your every step, you can maximize the value of your NAU degree. At NAU you can study anything from genetics to soil science, and pursue anything from economics to artificial intelligence. NAU is the place where engineers perfect their craft and food scientists learn to play the guitar--where there are no limits to imagination, nor to opportunities. Breathtaking landscapes, soaring skyscrapers, championship sports teams, and rich history and culture—when you’re at NAU, you’re in the middle of it all. As an engineering student who enjoys community engagement and reading up on Chinese governance, I've never felt like I fit neatly into one category. At NAU, I don't have to.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT BEING A STUDENT AT NAU?

Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. NAU’s culture fosters a community of collaborative interaction and research, thereby promoting a deeper and clearer understanding of the complex issues confronting society.NAU promotes the importance of completing excellent and valuable work, while simultaneously ensuring that students proactively build a network. At NAU, pursuit of personal goals and ambitions is an integral part of wholesome individual development.There are students from many different countries, such that NAU’s amazing diversity is always on full display. They are constantly encouraged and supported to share their cultures. At NAU, differences are not only accepted, but celebrated. The diversity and sense of acceptance that characterizes NAU makes it the perfect place to break out of one's comfort zone and dare to try new things, maybe even take risks. From quality education, to student clubs, and world class tutors, NAU provides you with an amazing chance to do just that--expand my horizon. That is the beauty of studying in Nanjing Agricultural University!

WHAT ARE YOUR CHALLENGES IN YOUR STUDY PROGRAM?

Language barrier is one of the main challenging problems. When I came to China, I knew nil Mandarin! Communication was quite hard, but I persevered. Delightful loads of Pinyin later and numerous Chinese characters, my Chinese has improved to levels I never thought possible! All it takes is hard work and determination. In China it is said Shībài shì chénggōng zhī mǔ (Failure is the mother of success), and I suspect these words hold true for you as well. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success.

HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR DEGREE WILL HELP YOU IN YOUR LIFE AND CAREER?

NAU has continuously held itself as an embodiment of academic excellence coupled with skillful harmonious empowerment of lives. I have borne witness to the critical role that universities play in promoting economic development and I look forward to applying the lesson learnt in my future career. During my time at NAU, I have also been fortunate to attend various industry related conferences and training courses. These opportunities have allowed me to form networks with discipline experts from other Chinese universities and international counterparts. NAU has ensured students always have access to the best minds in government, industry, and academia to address real-world issues affecting the world. As a university student, there are general skills which will be required regardless of the career you pursue. These skills include the ability to read, write, compute, think critically, and communicate in an effective manner. For the most part, these skills are developed and/or sharpened in courses offered at NAU. These skills, along with effective career planning techniques, and the ability to cope with ambiguity in a changing environment, will enable you to overcome obstacles throughout your work life.

DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE STUDENTS AT NAU?

When choosing a school, you are choosing a place where you believe that you can live, learn, and flourish. Generations of inspiring alumni have gone through this timeless institution. The NAU school motto declares “Hard work, honesty, diligence, and friendliness” as thefoundationof the school. As you consider joining this community that is committed to these values, rest assured you will have the best environment to fulfil your potential. Life at NAU is awesome and the friends you will make during your say will always be there to provide a support network when the going gets tough.Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their study would be incomplete without it. At NAU, you’ll do so much more than just study here. You will get involved in any number of the many student groups, societies, and clubs. The College of International Education will be there to support you all the way.The trick is to find the right balance between academics and social life, to ensure smooth sailing through the study duration.So travel around China for conferences, join the Ballers Basketball team, take a boat ride in Xuanwu Lake, collect some Plane Tree leaves in autumn, take a photo with a fluffy cat on campus, have some Kaoya ‘roast duck’ at the canteen—and you’ll feel your NAU pride in no time!