Sandra Chioma Ndife
"The academic staff in the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering were very supportive and always ready to listen: it was apparent that every student’s comfort and satisfaction is considered a top priority."
Course
Petroleum Refining Systems Engineering MScGraduation year
2018Petroleum engineering appeals to me because it is not just limited to the fundamental principles of engineering but encompasses economic, business and analytical aspects as well. Petroleum is still considered an important natural resource, despite its issues, so the ability to develop sustainable methods of energy and oil production in petroleum refining is a very important skill.
Having worked at the Petroleum Equalisation Fund in my home country, Nigeria, following my bachelor’s degree, I wanted to continue my education in petroleum refining. I chose Surrey’s MSc Petroleum Refining Systems Engineering based on the variety of different modules, which suited my interests, and the high standard of education the University offers.
The aspects of the masters course I’ve most enjoyed have been the practical elements such as simulations and modelling. These were quite challenging but I liked having to think outside the box to tackle them. The academic staff in the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering were very supportive and always ready to listen: it was apparent that every student’s comfort and satisfaction is considered a top priority.
My year at Surrey has been interesting. I’ve made lifelong friends and have been exposed to different cultures and lifestyles. Social nights on campus have been a great way to de-stress after long hours of lectures and study. What I’ve found is that the route to excellence and success is hard work.
Having completed my masters course I have returned to Nigeria where my plan is to work for the government in the petroleum refining industry. I believe Nigeria’s four refineries have the potential to produce more than their current capacity and, with the knowledge I’ve gained, I think I can help to improve the design, retrofit and optimisation of the refinery equipment.
Discover our courses in chemical and process engineering, including our MSc Petroleum Refining Systems Engineering.
