Tyra came to Swansea Metropolitan University after studying Industrial Design for two years in Norway. The course in Norway only offered a HND, and she wanted to complete her education with a bachelor degree. "it was also an opportunity to explore another culture and broaden my horizons in terms of industrial design" After speaking to a representative from the Faculty of Art and Design at an education trade fair in Norway and researching courses at other institutions Tyra was very interested in the programme that SMU offered.

She said "I decided to visit Swansea and came to the university for an interview. I was struck by how friendly and helpful everyone was from the taxi driver to the B&B lady as soon as I arrived. Staff at SMU also went out of their way to welcome me and ensure I got to meet with lecturers and see all the facilities. I really felt that I was treated as a person, not just a number. The university was a really good size, with small class sizes allowing a lot of contact with lecturers".

When Tyra came back to Swansea to begin her course she participated in the International Welcome Week which she said "was really good and covered everything you needed to know to help settle into life as a student here. We were also shown around Swansea and had a bus tour of the Gower".

After completing her undergraduate degree Tyra remained at the university to carry out her PhD on using recycled bottle glass. "It was great being able to continue my studies. I was fully supported by lecturers and was able to work across a number of the Schools and make full use of all the facilities for my research, I wasn't restricted at all".

As well as enjoying her studies Tyra has been exploring the beautiful countryside surrounding Swansea. "I have joined a walking group for young people and I have been able to really get to know the area and enjoy the natural surroundings. It has also meant that I have got to meet and make friends with local people, as well as students. I think that it is very important when you have the opportunity to study abroad that you get to experience what it is really like to live somewhere".