My graduation
2018 has been a very busy year. I returned from a family visit in Cairo in the first week of January 2018 and had been working for RETAS Leeds for about ten months. Despite the busy nature of the job, working at RETAS had been very rewarding; there is nothing that gives me peace of mind than working with disadvantaged communities. It was also a privilege to have worked with one of my best friends and colleagues, Tesfalem Habte Yemane.
One of the highlights of the year was my graduation from SOAS University of London. I am very happy to have completed my MA studies with a Distinction, which was my goal as I decided to go for an MA at SOAS. In addition to the normal academic stuff, I managed to overcome so many challenges to achieve the high standards I set for myself. It was also special to celebrate my graduation with my fiancée. A special mention also goes to Yohannes Tsegai and his entire family for organising my graduation ceremony in their house in London.
One of the highlights of the year was my graduation from SOAS University of London. I am very happy to have completed my MA studies with a Distinction, which was my goal as I decided to go for an MA at SOAS.
At the end of September 2018, I travelled to Glasgow where I am now studying a PhD programme. I am forever grateful for my supervisors for making it possible for me to study at one of the UK’s prestigious universities. In fact, my supervisors have become my points of reference when I needed support. My fiancée and I joined Professor Alison Phipps’ family on Christmas day. It was one of the most memorable Christmas celebrations I have had since I came to the UK. We are grateful for the hospitality, gift and fun they welcomed us with.
My special thanks also go to my cousin Eden and her entire family for hosting my wife and me upon our arrival and for becoming a source of support for us. We have become one family.
Right now, I am sitting on my sofa and my lovely fiancée is brewing the usual coffee – Eritrean coffee. We will soon call our friends and families and wish them a Happy New Year.
Happy New Year!
