Meet Afliana

A seamless start to life in the UK

Upon arriving in Newcastle, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I felt at home. The reliability of local transport, combined with the welcoming community, has made my transition into life here incredibly seamless.  

A sense of belonging in Newcastle

My experience at Newcastle has been defined by a strong sense of belonging. I am especially fond of the university’s architecture, where traditional structures, such as the arches, stand alongside Newcastle University’s modern facilities.  

Witnessing my first snowfall here was a huge moment that I will always cherish, and it’s a moment that has really stayed with me during my time as an international student. 

My application experience

The university’s application portal is highly efficient, with all essential information clearly presented in one place. Combined with the accessibility and support of the admissions team, the enrolment process felt straightforward and stress-free. 

A degree where theory meets real-world impact

You’ll dive into local transport plans and learn to manage the complex relationship between new developments and existing infrastructure - essentially shaping the efficiency of a city’s future. 

A key highlight of my studies is engaging with experts from UK city councils and the wider transport engineering industry. These sessions combine theoretical knowledge with practical insight, taught by professionals with decades of experience, ensuring our learning stays current and relevant. 

While adapting to both theory and practice was challenging at first, it has been a highly rewarding experience, helping me bridge the gap between academic study and professional experience. 

Developing expertise in Transport Engineering

I'm driven by a passion for the transport sector. I aspire to work in a senior role where I can influence transport policy in the UK, working at the intersection of planning and advocacy.  

Building on my undergraduate studies, my master's programme has strengthened my view of transport as the ‘circulatory system’ of modern cities, shaping mobility and quality of life. This has reinforced my ambition to contribute to the sector, ideally within the Department for Transport. 

While the degree offers a strong technical foundation, specialising in Transport Planning has been pivotal. It's equipped me with the strategic insight needed to grow as a professional and make a meaningful impact.