There were all shades of beautiful colours at the Sussex graduation ceremony in July 2024, from the blues of Brighton beach to the amazing decorations of the Brighton Centre, to the mix of different graduation gowns of the new Bachelors, Masters, and Doctors. I had a great time watching the graduates experience the sheer joy of officially leaving their lives as Sussex students. So, when the newly graduated Dr. Bendangyangerla Imchen passed by in her dazzling red Sussex doctoral gown, I couldn’t let her go without a chat about her experience as a student.

Bendangyangerla is from India and has just completed a PhD in Gender Studies at the School of Media, Arts and Humanities.

Now that you have been conferred the title ‘Dr.’, how does it feel?

It is overwhelming, but since I knew I was studying to get the degree, I have mixed feelings. I am really happy, but I wish my family were here with me.

I wish they were here with you too. However, I am certain they are proud of you.

Yes, they are. Thank you.

When did you decide to study for a PhD?

It was during my Master’s in India that I discovered I loved research. However, my motivation was not just for the degree but for the love of research. So my curiosity on certain discourses coupled with achieving the degree has helped me to finish my PhD on time without dragging it for long.

You mentioned that you are from India, what then would you say was the first challenge you encountered at Sussex?

It was the culture shock for me. Coming from a community where there is collective living, I found the individualistic living here very challenging. At first, it appeared that the environment was harsh and not welcoming, but I soon realised that was not the case.

How did you then navigate this challenge?

Fortunately or unfortunately, COVID-19 happened and I was mostly at home on-campus. Since I was stuck with my housemates, we had no choice but to interact and that helped me a lot. I got to meet other international students and learn about different cultures. Then, I had to travel home and when I came back, I realised that Sussex had become my second home that I was too eager to come back to. It was the COVID-19 period that helped me a lot.

What five things kept you going during your studies at the University of Sussex?

The first thing that kept me going was my genuine interest in my research field. Secondly, when I needed help, I did not need to stress a lot at Sussex; the school is very student-friendly and this kept me going. Also, I held on to the fact that no one knew my research more than I did and this made me very self-confident throughout my degree.

I am aware that many people are scared of getting a PhD because they think we study all the time. This was not the case as I avoided getting overwhelmed by participating in different non-academic activities. I took time out to do the things I love outside of academics, like taking up part-time jobs and vlogging on YouTube. I also took vacations where I did not think about my research at all; this helped a lot.

What do you love about the University of Sussex?

I love the University’s library. It is massive and has a huge and good collection of books. Sussex also has many sporting activities and different places to stop by for a coffee. Oh! I also love that the university rewards students for participation in extracurricular activities through the Spirit of Sussex Awards. I got the Spirit of Sussex Gold Award for all the non-academic things I did beyond my PhD.

What would you say to other international students who may be experiencing difficulties finding their feet at the University of Sussex?

Don't stay in your room, go out. Participate in different activities, meet new people, make friends, practise self-love and have fun.

What are your parting words to the University of Sussex?

I would say thank you so much, University of Sussex. I cannot help but feel immense gratitude towards the University. The education, resources, and support I received throughout my time played a crucial role.

A big thank you to my supervisors ( Prof. Lizzie Seal & Dr. Munira Cheema- King’s College London)  for their support system, encouragement and patience throughout the entire period of the study. Their academic guidance and constructive criticism were invaluable. Thank you for your patience and for believing in my ability. You will always be in my heart. If I ever get a chance to come back I am definitely coming back. Long live the University of Sussex.

That is so sweet. Thank you so much for your time, Dr. Bendangyangerla

Thank you too.

Similoluwa Adefioye is a Masters's Student of International Education and Development. She enjoys writing and utilising the pen for the benefit of others. When not writing, she is either working as an International Educator, representing international students within and outside Sussex or advocating for Gender Equality as one of the UN Women UK CSW 68 delegates. 

Find out more about PhD study at Sussex.