Mandhara
Mandhara is studying for a PhD in Mathematics (Mathematical Modelling in Climate Systems) at the Streatham Campus in Exeter
Why did you decide that Exeter was the best place to study?
The University of Exeter has many great scientists especially in my field, Climate Science. For example, my supervisor Prof. Pierre Friedlingstein is one of the most influential climate scientists in the world. Thus, we can learn directly from the best in the world by studying at the University of Exeter.
Describe your typical day at Exeter
As a PhD student, I don’t have any mandatory classes. So, I normally come to campus in the morning directly to my desk for reading some journal or look into a dataset. Then, I have a morning meeting with my supervisors for around 1 hour. Back to my desk, doing some work like coding, literature review, data analysis and others. After lunch, we normally have a group meeting, in which any member can give a presentation of their progress. I also sometimes join a guest lecture from the Department of Mathematics or Exeter Climate System in the evening.
What are the best aspects of studying within your department?
So many aspects are great here, but the best one is the access. There are many great scientists here in my field, who have great networking and resources worldwide. They are very kindly and will share their information and knowledge with us. It gives me access to the latest knowledge, recent training and many opportunities that can develop my career.
I also get access to the supercomputer on processing model simulation. For any questions that I have, there has to be someone that can answer it. I just need to ask.
How would you describe the vibe on campus?
Streatham campus is the perfect mix between human and nature. You can easily meet with people in the same field or for sharing ideas. At the same time you are only a meter away from natural beauty. When you feel exhausted or overwhelmed, you just need to walk out your building and find the most beautiful scenery. I even can see all the city from the top floor of my building.
What activities are you taking part in?
I am currently part of the Indonesian Society. I also really love to play sport on campus especially football and futsal. This one is the best thing of University of Exeter. It has a huge area for sports inside campus where you can find any kind of sport activities from leisure to professional. You can learn many things, even something that you have not heard before.
What particular skills are you gaining from this experience?
I gain many computational and data analyst skills such as programming using fortran, data processing with google earth engine, operating jules and ukca. I am happy to have opportunities to access models that have been developed in the UK, something that I hope I can apply to my country. These skills will help my career a lot as I am able to research in my field deeper and more advanced through this.
What’s the best thing about living in Exeter?
It is small but you can get everywhere by walking. It is also really close to all the natural beauty that you can imagine.
Would you recommend Exeter to your friends?
Yes absolutely 100%.
Was there anything about your experiences at Exeter that surprised you?
The campus is huge and green! The location of every building is very well-designed, so we will not feel its stressful like in a normal campus. Instead, we enjoy being in the middle of greenery.
What advice would you give students planning on coming to the University of Exeter?
You have to have a good physical condition, or at least intend to develop your physical condition as the campus is so hilly! Also, explore! There are plenty hidden study spots on campus.
Has the University been supportive during your time here?
Yes, the University is easily reached to address any issue. You only need to ask.
