'I graduated with a degree, my own business and a job'

Former GREAT scholar Hana from Egypt is a graduate with a master's in graphic communication from Nottingham Trent University (NTU). From pitching her business idea and winning £500, to running her own design brand and working as an international marketing coordinator after graduation, hear what Hana achieved by stepping outside of her comfort zone.

'The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world'

When I decided to pursue a master’s degree, I cast a wide net. I applied to universities across mainland Europe, North America, and the UK. Ultimately, I chose the UK because it checked all the boxes for me. I wanted a prestigious university with a strong academic reputation, particularly in design. The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world, especially in creative fields, so it felt like the right place for me.

Out of all the cities I considered, Nottingham was the most affordable, which played a big part in my decision. Compared to other major UK cities, Nottingham had a lower cost of living, and Nottingham Trent University (NTU) offered everything I was looking for in a course. When I received the GREAT Scholarship, everything fell into place. It was a game-changer for me, making it possible to pursue a dream I’d worked toward for three years.

But it wasn’t just about cost and rankings. I was looking for a more hands-on approach to learning. I wanted to create, practice, and explore—not just attend lectures. My course at NTU promised exactly that, with workshops, societies, and opportunities to develop real-world experience. That practical, immersive learning style was one of the biggest reasons I chose to study here. It felt like the perfect environment to grow both as a designer and as a future entrepreneur.

'The GREAT Scholarship gave me financial support and a global network of friends'

The GREAT Scholarship was more than just financial support—it was the key that opened the door to everything that followed. Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to afford the costs, even in a city as affordable as Nottingham. The funding allowed me to focus fully on my studies and take advantage of every opportunity that came my way.

But the scholarship didn’t just support me financially. It connected me to an incredible network of international students, scholars, and professionals from around the world. Through GREAT Scholarship events and networking opportunities, I met people with shared experiences who later became friends, collaborators, and sources of inspiration. These connections have given me insight into other perspectives and a global network that I know will stay with me for life.

'I was encouraged to think beyond my course'

One of the things I love most about studying in the UK is the way you’re encouraged to explore beyond your course. In Egypt, if you study design, you will most likely focus on design alone. But at NTU, I was given the chance to branch out.

I took workshops with the business school and attended sessions with NTU Enterprise, where I learned about entrepreneurship and even entered competitions. This opened my mind to possibilities I hadn’t considered before—like combining my love for design with business and strategy.

But it wasn’t just about formal workshops. I also joined societies where I could build my creative skills and meet like-minded students. The design society offered hands-on activities, and I even got to participate in craft fairs. The university gave me stalls at three different campus locations, where I could showcase and sell my artwork. It was an incredible feeling to see my handmade designs being appreciated by others—and even more exciting to earn an income from something I created with my own hands.

These experiences pushed me to think like an entrepreneur. I didn’t just see myself as a student anymore. I saw myself as someone capable of running a small creative business, with real experience of it.

'One of my proudest moments was pitching my business idea and winning £500'

One of my proudest moments in the UK was winning first prize in the Launch It Grand Competition hosted by NTU Enterprise. The competition was all about pitching a business idea, and the winner received a £500 cash prize. What’s funny is that I only found out about the competition a few days before it happened. I scrambled to put together my pitch the night before, with no idea how it would go. I presented my idea, answered some questions, and left. I honestly thought that was it.

Later that day, I went to a social event where the competition organisers were giving out free pizza. I was just there to relax, but then something incredible happened. They announced the winners—and they called my name. My pitch had won. Winning that competition wasn’t just about the money. It was proof that I could achieve more than I thought possible. I walked away with confidence, pride, and a renewed belief in myself.

'Nottingham feels like a second home to me'

Nottingham feels like a second home to me. It’s a student-friendly city where you’re surrounded by creativity, culture, and people from all over the world. It’s big enough to have everything you need but small enough to feel personal.

One of my favourite things about studying here is the diversity of the student community. You walk into a classroom and see people from every corner of the globe. I made friends from different countries, shared meals with them, and learned about their cultures. Back home, I never had that experience of being around people from so many different backgrounds at once.

'From day one, I had people I could turn to'

That sense of connection also came from the support I received. From day one, I felt like I had people I could turn to. The university helped me when an unexpected financial challenge came up, when the currency in my home country dropped unexpectedly. Instead of paying large tuition instalments all at once, the university allowed me to split them into smaller payments. That made a big difference for me.

When I was feeling under the weather (quite literally) I had friends, classmates, and tutors checking in on me. I’ll never forget the time I had an eye infection that left me unable to see properly for two weeks. As a design student, that was terrifying. But my tutors and classmates were so supportive, and I got through it. Moments like that made me realise how much of a community I was part of.

'I had the opportunity to showcase my work at the New Designers Exhibition in London'

Although my course kept me busy, I made time to explore. I travelled to London several times and had the incredible opportunity to showcase my work at the New Designers Exhibition. This is one of the biggest design showcases in the UK, where students and industry professionals come together. I spent a full week there, networking with people in the design industry and exploring the city.

I also went to Manchester for the GREAT scholars event. It was such a memorable experience because I got to meet scholars from other universities and hear their stories. We explored Manchester together, sharing meals and adventures. It’s one of those moments that sticks with you long after it’s over.

Closer to home, I explored Nottingham itself and visited Birmingham. Each city in the UK has its own personality, but there’s something special about Nottingham. It’s where I feel most at home in the UK.

'In the UK I learned that I can be a designer and an entrepreneur'

My time in the UK wasn’t just about academic growth. It was about learning who I am and what I’m capable of. Before coming here, I thought my career path had to be one thing or another—either academic or industry-focused. But my experience at NTU taught me that I can blend the two. I can be a designer and an entrepreneur. I can create with my hands and still master the digital space.

I learned not to limit myself. Before coming to the UK, I used to overthink every decision. But being here taught me to take action, even if I wasn’t 100 per cent sure of the outcome. Whether it was joining a workshop alone or pitching a business idea at a competition, I pushed myself to get involved. And every time, I gained something valuable—skills, connections, or just the confidence that I can handle anything that comes my way.

'You'll never know your potential if you stay in your comfort zone'

If you’re thinking about studying in the UK, my advice is simple: just do it. I know it’s scary to leave home, especially when your family might have concerns. But you’ll never know your potential if you stay in your comfort zone.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is not to doubt myself. Many people think they’re 'not good enough' to win a scholarship, but that’s not true. If you want it, apply for it. Work hard, believe in yourself, and you’ll be surprised by what you can achieve.

Once you’re in the UK, take every opportunity that comes your way. If there’s a competition, enter it. If there’s a workshop, sign up. If there’s a chance to meet people from other courses or countries, show up. You never know where it might lead.

'I graduated with so much more than a degree'

When I arrived in the UK, I thought I was just coming to earn a degree. But I graduated with so much more. I have new skills, new perspectives, and a stronger belief in my abilities. I’ve built a portfolio of work that I’m proud of, and I’ve met people who have inspired me in ways I never expected.

More than anything, I’ve learned that the most valuable opportunities are the ones you create for yourself. I came to the UK expecting to be a student. I graduated as a designer, an entrepreneur, and someone who knows that no challenge is too big to overcome.

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth it to study in the UK, I can say with absolute certainty—it is. It’s more than a degree. It’s a journey that changes everything.

'I now work as an international marketing coordinator and every day is different'

I’m still in the UK, now working as an international marketing coordinator—a role that’s as dynamic as it is rewarding. No two days are the same, and that’s exactly how I like it. One day, I might be designing brochures or leaflets for in-country teams, and the next, I’m on set at a photo shoot, working on social media content—sometimes behind the camera, sometimes in front of it. One of the most meaningful parts of my role is profiling international students, just as I was profiled as a student. It’s a full-circle moment that constantly reminds me how far I’ve come.

I also play an active role in major events like scholarship award ceremonies, open days, and graduation celebrations—moments that feel just as special for me as they do for the students. But what I love most is representing NTU on a bigger stage. I’ve had the privilege of attending GREAT Scholarship events, agent meetings, and offer-holder events including in my home country, Egypt. It’s an incredible feeling to support students at the very beginning of their own journeys, knowing I’ve been in their shoes.

'Outside of my role at NTU, I channel my creativity into my small business'

Outside of my role at the university, I channel my creativity into my small business, The Happy Designer. Through this project, I create and sell handmade, upcycled items like tote bags, hats, travel pouches, cards, pins, and stickers—all featuring my original positive and joyful designs. I sell them online via social media and at pop-up stalls in both Egypt and the UK. This venture has opened up even more opportunities, including giving talks and running workshops for students in the UK. I guide them on how to start their own creative businesses and build a brand identity that stands out.

Every part of what I do—whether it’s storytelling, design, or supporting students—feels like a continuation of the journey I started as a GREAT scholar. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m even more excited for what’s ahead.