Nottingham Trent University

Why did you choose to study a PGCE?
"After graduating university, I didn’t know what I wanted to do. People had often said to me that they could see me as a teacher, but it never really resonated with me. I knew I didn’t want to spend every day working in an office and that I wanted to make a difference with my career. So, after a lot of thought I decided to study the PGCE in primary education and after spending time in primary schools I knew that it was the right decision for me. I knew that NTU was well–renowned for teaching courses. I knew that a lot of people went to NTU to become a teacher, so I chose to do the same."

What was your experience of your course?
"I had a really good experience on the course because I made loads of new friends who I keep in touch with. I didn’t really know what to expect with this course because it was completely different from my other degrees. It was much more hands-on, and I enjoyed going to the subjects and experiencing primary school with my friends."

Did you complete any work placements on your course?
"I completed two main work placements in primary schools across Nottingham. The one I spent the most time at was in a Year 4 class in Beeston. I loved my placement, I really enjoyed spending time with the children and feeling like I had my own class. The teachers in the school treated me like a colleague and I was grateful for their mentorship. I would say that this placement prepared me to be a teacher better than anything else, and even though it was challenging, it was very rewarding."

What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?
"I think the tutors and staff at NTU offered a lot of support and there were many staff members who I felt that I could turn to if I had a problem."

Tell us about what you’re doing now
"In September, I am going to have my own class in Year 3 so I will be a full-time class teacher. I’m really looking forward to this and I feel that I have been prepared well for it."

More about Abbie
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Psychology?
"Initially, I chose to study this postgraduate degree to gain the BPS accreditation that I needed. However, as I did more research, I quickly learnt that there would be so many more opportunities to broaden my academic and research skills, which could transfer into my life as a student and life afterwards."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"I completed my undergraduate degree on the Clifton Campus at NTU, and I always felt supported yet challenged by staff and my fellow peers. As well as this, lecturers and other staff were always dedicated, easy to talk to and knew up-to-date research in their field. This meant I knew that the content I learn would be tailored to ensure I understood its real-life applications. This community and feelings of safety at NTU fostered my growth and increased my confidence, which allowed me to believe in myself. So, I wanted to continue my academic journey here with different staff that had the same morals and principles – to help their students do their best."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"Despite this course being challenging at times, I have enjoyed stepping out of my comfort zone with new content. The course provides countless opportunities to interact with your lecturers and other staff regarding essay ideas, career goals and student life. Staff also go above and beyond to ensure that you feel prepared for your assignments and exams. For example, they put up additional readings and useful resources (like Padlets which accumulate group ideas) and do support/revision sessions outside of university timetabling. As well as this, the course understands that people have different interests within psychology and tailor assignments to allow for this individuality."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"I have been the Secretary of NTU Trampolining’s committee. This has allowed me to do something I enjoy, whilst learning how to manage my time and transfer my skills from my university course into a leadership role. As well as this, I completed an observation, in a primary school, for research that NTU staff were conducting. This opportunity allowed me to have first-hand experience of research in the real world, improved my confidence in my abilities and improved my teamwork in a different

More about Anya
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Forensic Mental Health?
"After graduating from my BA Criminology at Nottingham Trent University, I wasn’t super sure what I wanted to do. I applied to study MA Criminology but deferred a year, and then the pandemic began so I ended up writing it off entirely.

I was relatively happy in my hospitality era, but after the pandemic and a long four-year break away from studying, I wanted to focus on kickstarting this part of my life again and go down a more specialised path in a career more suited to myself and my dreams.

I worked in my own time during the pandemic to research and deepen my understanding of my own mental health issues and trauma, and what was out there to support me in times of need. I accessed this and was able to understand myself more, and through this, I wanted to rejoin this field and get back into university life in order to enhance my learning, skills, and qualifications. This is so one day I can be the support for someone in their time of need like someone was for me."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"Whilst browsing the list of mental health-related postgraduate courses on the NTU website, I came across two that stood out to me. There was the Psychological Well-being and Mental Health course, and then this one: Forensic Mental Health. Something about ‘Forensic Mental Health’ just made me get butterflies. I wasn’t sure if it was the nerves because I’d begun making this massive decision for my future and that can be terrifying. But I’m pretty certain that it was my brain telling me that this was the right thing for me, and it’s like I knew that things would start to fall into place as a result.

The reason I chose NTU was because it feels like home. I could even say that it didn’t really feel like a choice for me, I just knew I wanted it to be here! I spent three years of my life here for my undergraduate degree, and I met some of the best friends I’ve ever had through all of its opportunities. I wanted to relive this, and it just so happens that I found a postgraduate course I love to stay right here and get those feelings all over again."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"My expectations of my course so far have been exceeded, for a number of reasons. I went in not really sure what it would entail, but there have been many a time I’ve been surprised by some of the course content (

Anya pursued an MRes in Exercise Physiology at Nottingham Trent University after completing her BSc in Sport and Exercise Science.

After graduating Anya is currently a Health and Wellbeing Physiologist at Nuffield Health where she is conducting health assessments to mitigate the risk of non-communicable diseases through lifestyle interventions. A passion rooted in her long-standing interest in sports science and health improvement. She collaborates with a multidisciplinary healthcare team at Canary Wharf Medical Centre to support clients' health goals and volunteers with a local dementia charity, contributing to community health and well-being.

Anya chose NTU for postgraduate study due to her interest in the health aspects of sports science and her desire to engage in research:
Anya: I chose to study my postgraduate course because it was a subject that I enjoy and wanted to learn more about in a more focused way. I also wanted to delve into research more and was keen to explore the health side of sport science (instead of performance enhancement) as well as continue my time at NTU and Nottingham.

Her postgraduate experience was highlighted by her main project, which she found rewarding:
Anya: I thoroughly enjoyed my course. There are several highlights but the ones that stand out are from working on my main project - working with such a brilliant team, collecting data, interacting with participants, writing my thesis and just overall having a good time - such a buzz and it very much didn’t feel like work or studying!

Outside the lecture halls, she actively participated in extracurricular activities, such as attending conferences, summarising research for MPs and playing sport:
Anya: I was involved in writing summaries for MPs about recent research with the gut microbiome. I attended a couple of in-house conferences at NTU about recent research in Exercise Physiology. As part of my course, I was also involved in a couple of other projects which I enjoyed participating in and collecting data. I also was Treasurer and played Korfball for NTU over the four years which ended very nicely by winning the Plate!

More about Bridget
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study MA Social Work?
"I have always had a passion for supporting people to the best of my ability. I choose to study the MA in social work because I believe I can make a genuine difference in people's lives. Social work practice denotes empowerment, human rights, and respect for diversity.

Before applying to study MA Social Work, I had completed a Health and Well-being in Society BSc degree. I consolidated my understanding of the law, legislation, and government policies, including The Care Act 2014 and Mental Capacity Act 2005 and have seen how this can be used to empower individuals to take control of their lives. The MA in social work has given me more insight and understanding into developing my passion to support individuals that uses social services."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"I chose to study at NTU because of the outstanding reputation it has in the UK and around the world.

I applied to other Universities within the East Midlands, but I ended up choosing NTU because each of the MA modules are built on a distinctive set of learning outcomes. This particularly caught my interest as these will give me a clear understanding of what I will be able to achieve at the end of my course, as well as the knowledge and skills I will acquire to strengthen my employability. I am glad I made the decision to study here as my experience at NTU has been positive."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"My experience has been positive. One of my highlights has been the opportunity we were given to work one-to-one with clients with lived experiences. The knowledge and skills I had acquire during those sessions helped me immensely during my time on my first placement. It is important to work with clients with lived experience because it helps to reduce stigma and discrimination."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"Social science to me means the interactions of individuals in society, learning about the culture in which we live, advocating for human rights, working with people from different diversity and transforming people’s lives."

On Placement
Have you completed any work placements on your course?
"I completed my first placement at the New Future Project in Leicester. The Project is a not-for-profit charitable organisation that provides emotional, practical, and therapeutic support to women, both adults and young pe

More about Chiedza
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study MA Social Work at NTU?
"I already hold a BA (Hons) degree in Health and Social Care and wanted to progress academically to the next step. I wanted to save time and money and a shorter course catered for this."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"This course has been a positive learning experience for me. I have enjoyed learning about human growth and development from childhood right into adulthood. Placement has also been one of my highlights as l feel l gained so much knowledge and skills."

Social Sciences
What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"For me, it is about understanding human beings and their behaviour within the society they live."

Placement
Have you completed any work placements on your course?
"I had a positive learning experience during my first placement at Derby City Council in the Children, Young People and Families Team. As part of the placement, I undertook direct work, considering what each child liked and what would work best for them as an individual.

During my time on placement, I worked with individuals from diverse cultures and religions, including White British, Black African, Polish, and Slovakian families, and l treated them all with equality and respect. I also had a chance to complete a piece of work around culture which was related to a family in proceedings, as previously they felt unheard regarding their culture and previous Social Care involvement. I considered the potential implications of the difference in cultures and how this could impact the families' engagement with the Local Authority and the expectations in the United Kingdom.

My organisational skills during placement significantly improved. I also evidenced my ability to write formal assessments, case notes and court work at agency standards. There was a significant difference in the quality of my writing as I progressed during my placement.

There were times when I noticed the impact of my personal experiences whilst discussing a similar topic within a case I worked on. I reflected on how this made me feel and any support l needed in respect of this. My self-recognition of how this affected me was very positive and allowed me to consider any support needed and any implications it had on my practice."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?
"My most memorable experience was when l worked with a fam

More about Christian
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?
"Prior to my postgraduate degree, I was a BSc student at NTU. Having spent three years at the University, I knew I wanted to progress my continuous learning through a taught Master’s course. I knew that I wanted to specialise in Occupational Psychology due to the keen interest I gained in work dynamics through both my Psychology degree and employment as a supervisor."

Why did you choose MSc Occupational Psychology at NTU?
"I had the opportunity to take part in the Work-Based Psychology in Practice module during the final year of my BSc Psychology course. Since then, I have naturally gravitated towards finding out more about psychology in the workplace and how to apply evidence-based interventions in work. I received high-quality teaching and feedback from NTU staff during my BSc course, which made me confident that I would receive the same standard of teaching during the MSc course."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"Overall, my experience during this programme was very enriching and rewarding. One standout highlight of the course was the interactive nature of the lectures. The smaller class sizes allowed me to have more personalised interactions with my peers and lecturers, eliciting a collaborative and engaging learning environment. This setting facilitated in-depth discussions about the course content, establishing a strong academic community. Not only did this enhance my learning, but it allowed me to build lasting connections with peers and faculty."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"I was elected as a student representative during my studies. I had the privilege of representing the student voice and expressing the needs of my peers to the faculty. This allowed me to contribute to the course and develop teamwork skills beyond my studies."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"To be part of the Social Sciences, to me, means to be part of a multidisciplinary community of students and psychologists who strive to understand the complexities of human behaviour. Being part of that as an Occupational Psychology graduate means understanding the dynamics of the workplace, employee well-being and organisational design. Working with people and helping to make the work environment a better place has been a meaningful endea

More about Colin
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Youth?
"My life was at a bit of a low point, and I could not figure out what to do next, then it came to me ‘let’s do a Masters.’ One of my pals had done one a few years ago so I thought ‘why not?’

I then had a bit of a google and found several universities offering an MA in various youth-related areas.

For me personally, the MA isn’t about career development its more of a personal achievement and a confidence boost."

Why did you choose to study MA Youth Work Leadership and Practice at NTU?
"NTU caught my eye because the modules seem interesting, the university was within commuting distance, attendance was only two days a week, which gives plenty of time to study, and time to work.

The degree, MA in Youth Work Leadership and Practice I felt, needed to be my next level of study. So, I filed in the form as best as I could, wrote a letter of application and sent in whatever was needed."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"Amazing, I have really enjoyed myself.

The staff are incredibly supportive and knowledgeable. The Student Support Services have also been very helpful.

The highlight was getting a place, I was really happy and excited about returning to Uni after 23 years, but also a little worried.

Meeting the other students and making friends was great.

I felt as if I have updated my knowledge massively and will continue to use the skills in my own practice."

On Placement
Have you completed any work placements on your course?
"I did do a placement, but it has been where I already work. What I brought to that was new ways of thinking which will eventually change the organisation, primarily by understanding its values and them improving the practice."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?
"Every day is memorable. The student body are a great group of people with some amazing experiences to share."

Support
What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?
"Tutors and staff were always there when you needed them, and always had time for us."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre
Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?
"I did, I would like to think that all of our student group are now friends."

The Next Steps
What’s next for you after NTU?
"Well I am currently redefining a

About you...
What degree did you take at undergraduate level and where did you study?
I took BSc Psychology with Criminology at undergraduate level, and I studied at NTU (Nottingham Trent University), achieving a 2:1.

Why did you want to undertake a postgraduate degree, and do you think it has benefitted your career aspirations?
I wanted to take MSc Forensic Mental Health so that I would be able to work within the criminal justice system. I hope to be able to work with offenders aiding in their rehabilitation back into society as law abiding citizens. I feel that this course has given me invaluable transferable skills that I can apply to many different career paths within the criminal justice system.

Why NTU...
Why did you choose NTU and your course?
I chose NTU as I was already familiar with the city, had friends doing a postgraduate here, and was already well trained in using the NOW system. This made the transition between undergraduate and postgraduate relatively smooth.

I chose to study MSc Forensic Mental Health as I felt it gave me specialism in the area of mental health which I was interested in during my undergraduate studies. I also feel this particular course gave me the necessary skill development from undergraduate I needed to achieve my career goals.

Could you describe your experience of being a Postgraduate NTU student?
I found that completing a postgraduate degree very challenging and, however, it is very rewarding knowing that I have been very independent in my journey. There are sacrifices that need to be me in regard to how social you are in postgraduate compared to undergraduate as the work is significantly more demanding.

How would you describe the support from your tutors, university staff and student services?
Although doing a postgraduate is a very independent journey, the tutors, university staff, and student services are always available to answer emails, have meetings, and have a good chat if you need any support during your studies.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre...
What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

I would describe Nottingham as a cultural, enriching, and fun place to go to university.

Where is a good place to eat, drink or visit in the city?
With amazing eateries, bars, clubs, and tourism sites, Nottingham has a tonne of amazing places to visit. My favourite food place in Nottingham ‘Sexy Mamma Loves Spaghetti’ located deep

More about Darren
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?
"I knew that studying at a Masters level was the only way I could get myself out of being frustrated in practice. I had many thoughts and ideas from my practice experience that I wanted to research and get validated."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"Many of the local universities in Birmingham had stopped doing a Masters in youth work. I decided to apply for NTU and was delighted when I had my interview and really became quite excited to get started. Some of my colleagues in Birmingham were taught by the team at NTU and I'd heard many great things about them."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"The curriculum was amazing it was well thought out and took me on a journey. Many of my friends, family and colleagues have noticed the difference in every area of my life. The confidence in the delivery of the content made it easy for me to get the most out of my experience."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"For me studying at a Masters level provided me with an opportunity to problem solve through my assessments, as I felt that I wanted to leave a legacy from my studies and intent to test out my findings and support the sector that I serve."

On Placement
Have you completed any work placements on your course?
"My placement allowed me to pause and critically reflect on my practice and those of others. I was able to maintain and work with my current employer. From the assessments I have completed, I can now take my learning back to benefit my colleagues and my community."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?
"The great messages from young people and parents thanking me for the support. I also had the opportunity to go indoor skydiving with the young people!"

Support
What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?
"The support I have received from the lecturers has been amazing. They have really built my confidence and have helped me to build my identity as an academic."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre
Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?
"From the lecture theatre to the WhatsApp group, we have become more than alumni. The value in this network is un-comparable. We all look forward to seeing how we co-produce and deliver in the future bringing in each other’s specialisms."

The Next Steps
What’s

The course staff are highly knowledgeable and supportive, playing a crucial role in enhancing the learning and university experience for students. They go beyond traditional classroom teaching by offering additional support outside of scheduled lectures and seminars.

More about Ellie
Why NTU...
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?
"After completing my undergraduate degree at NTU, I chose to study a postgraduate degree to specialise further in my area of interest. This decision allowed me to delve deeper into a subject I love whilst acquiring the qualifications necessary for my desired career path."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"The MSc Forensic Psychology course at NTU is a great first step towards chartership, providing a solid foundation for working in both forensic and research environments. The course covers the modules required to meet BPS professional accreditation, meaning my degree is recognised by relevant professional bodies. NTU’s strong connections with industry partners and research institutions offers access to a wide range of career opportunities and collaborations.

NTU's commitment to excellence in education and its focus on student success made it an ideal environment for me to study towards my career goals."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights?
"The MSc Forensic Psychology course is great for not only strengthening your academic knowledge, but also building professional competencies. I didn’t just learn about psychological theories – I had the opportunity to design my own research studies, conduct risk assessments and engage in reflective practice regularly with my peers. The staff team have a wealth of experience and expertise, offering practical insights as academics and practitioners that helped me to reflect on real-world scenarios. If I decide to pursue stage 2 professional training in the future, studying at NTU has given me a real head start on working in forensic practice.

One of my course highlights was the Prison, Rehabilitation, and Aftercare module. I produced a consultancy report exploring the use of art psychotherapy in prison settings, considering both potential benefits and challenges. It’s a piece of work I’m really proud of.

Explanations of Crime, Criminal Behaviour and Victimology was a great module for understanding the philosophical, historical, and social meanings of crime. It allowed me to appreciate how perceptions of crime and justice have evolved over time and how these perceptions influence contemporary criminal justice policies and practices. This insight is vital for anyone looking to work in the field, as it informs a deeper understanding of curren

Emily Dargue completed her BSc in Sport Science and Coaching and MRes in Sport and Exercise Psychology at NTU.

One thing I did love about this course was all the guest lecturers that came in to NTU to talk on the areas of research that they were classed as experts within.

Emily is currently completing her PhD at NTU with the thesis title of 'The Effects of the Perfectionistic Climate on Youth Athletes Experience in Sport’ working within the Sport and Performance Psychology Research Group. Emily is also working as a part-time Research Assistant in the School of Psychology Sport Science & Wellbeing at the University of Lincoln on a project titled 'Acting on Doping: An Empirical Investigation of Protective Factors against Doping Vulnerability'.

What made you choose to study a postgraduate course at NTU?
I did my undergraduate course BSc (Hons) Coaching and Sport Science at NTU, which was an extremely enjoyable experience. After doing sport psychology for the first time, I really wanted to continue learning more areas within sport psychology and increase my research skills. I had such a great experience at NTU, I wanted to further my time at the university, therefore it was a very easy decision for me to apply for a PG course at NTU. I also wanted to keep building on the relationships I had formed with specific lecturers at NTU as I wanted to work/collaborate with them in the future.

What was the highlight of your course?
One thing I did love about this course was all the guest lecturers that came in to NTU to talk on the areas of research that they were classed as experts within. This allowed us to build up networks with NTU but also with other universities. Due to this experience of having guest lecturers it allowed me to have the opportunity to work with and publish one of my assignments with a guest lecturer from another university (University of Lincoln) in 2021. Making this connection has now helped me four years later to secure a job working with this guest lecturer as their research assistant at the University of Lincoln.

Did studying a postgraduate course help you develop skills for your chosen career?
I would not be where I am today within my career without studying on this PG course. I was able to develop my research skill (i.e. participant recruitment, learnt new data collection & data analysis methods) and communication skills (report writing and presentations). Being able to publish one of the assignmen

More about Georgia
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Psychology?
"For a few reasons, I decided to pursue a postgraduate degree in psychology. First of all, I really wanted to improve my academic abilities since I love learning and hope to one day use my skills, knowledge, and experience to help others.

Second, during the completion of my undergraduate dissertation, my supervisor strongly encouraged me to pursue further education because he thought I had what it took to succeed as an academic.

Finally, I was encouraged to think about applying for the MSc Psychology postgraduate degree after receiving comments on a psychology assignment during my undergraduate studies. So, my passion for learning and helping others, as well as people's faith in my abilities, motivated me to pursue a postgraduate degree."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"I selected the MSc postgraduate psychology course at NTU for a variety of reasons. Firstly, the course gives students the chance to develop a variety of abilities that are crucial for future employment in the field of psychology.

Another reason that I chose this course is because according to previous students, the course team goes above and beyond to encourage their students and recognise that they have lives outside of university and that these lives can occasionally get in the way of their academic tasks.

Furthermore, the course's utilisation of the multidisciplinary team within the psychology department, as well as their research interests and expertise, makes it very interesting for another reason. This course is perfect for students aspiring to work in psychology-related fields because students on this course are supported by specialists in a multitude of psychology-related disciplines."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"So far, the course has me feeling like I am on a rollercoaster because it is quite rigorous in that you are always acquiring new information and abilities. As a student, you must constantly remind yourself that effort and hard work are rewarded and that the time you spent on each assignment was worthwhile because the course is BPS accredited.

One of the highlights of the course for me was the statistics phase test. I felt inspired to revise for the test due to the lecturers' support and the library skills team's encouragement, and I unexpectedly received full marks on the exam, achie

More about Gianna
About you...
What degree did you take at undergraduate level and where did you study?
I studied BSc Psychology at DeMontfort University Leicester.

Did you take a break in between your undergraduate degree and the postgraduate degree? If so, what did you do in this study break?
No I moved straight from undergraduate to postgraduate level.

Why did you want to undertake a postgraduate degree, and do you think it has benefitted your career aspirations?
I undertook an UG because I couldn’t progress into the career I wanted without it. I really liked the look of the course I did so I went for it. It’s benefitted my career aspirations definitely because I now have Stage 1 training towards chartership.

Why NTU…
Why did you choose NTU and your course?
It was the best course I could see of them all. It was my number 1 choice so I’m glad I got in. The staff looked really amazing and the connections that the staff had to establishments was something I wanted to be involved in. Also the making of the SOCAMRU was really interesting to me.

Could you describe your experience of being a Postgraduate NTU student?
Stressful, hard-work, but 100% worth it. Probably one of the hardest challenges I have faced but it has been so worth it. I’ve learned a lot about myself and my professional identity. I know exactly what I want to do with my career and this course has helped solidify that. It has also been really fun meeting new people and expanding my horizons. I’ve overall really enjoyed the course.

How would you describe the support from your tutors, university staff and student services?
From the staff I have gone to for help they have been amazing. I couldn’t have asked for more support or help. Even when it is out of hours I still received a response just so that I felt I was heard. I’ve really appreciated that.

My supervisor especially has been amazing and a great support in anything I have needed or wanted to discuss.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre…
What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

Fun, diverse, student-friendly.

Where is a good place to eat, drink or visit in the city?
Penny Lane – great for cocktails and a fun night out

Mojo – again a great night out

Horn in hand – great for food and student friendly

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?
Surprisingly yes, compared to my undergrad where I didn’t

If you are hoping to come to NTU, go for it – the lecturers are experienced and good at teaching, the facilities are widely available and useful, and the course itself will be a great experience.

More about Harriet
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Sociology?
"After completing my BA in Sociology at Nottingham Trent University, I knew I wanted to know more; more about the world of sociology outside the theoretical, beyond the journal articles and research papers. I had already seen a glimpse of it in some of my modules in undergrad, but I knew there was more out there. When looking at the prospectus for the MA course I knew I had found what I was looking for, I was beyond excited when I did."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"I loved the dedication NTU has made to public sociology; to creating those links between communities and universities and to making real active change through our research, instead of just researching for research’s sake.

I had also lived in Nottingham for three years at this point and I am beyond in love with this city and this university I knew I didn’t want to leave."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights?
"One thing that was wonderful about the postgrad course was everyone’s commitment to working together and supporting one another, building on each other's strengths and different experiences. All anyone needed to do was ask and there was always someone who was willing to help.

I also got to be a course rep this year, which was a first for me as an NTU student. Seeing the other side of how decisions on how to make the course work best for both the staff and the students made me really appreciate the commitment being made to hear students' voices and make sure their problems are resolved. No problem was too small."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"The service learning module gave us the opportunity to perform public sociology; to work with a non-profit organisation in Nottingham to complete some research or create a resource to aid in their goals. This action-based research helped solidify everything we discussed in the other modules and really opened my eyes to some of the realities of real public sociological research. Honestly, it made it clear to me that this is what I want to do with my life."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"The Social Sciences to me mean looking beyond the curtain of ‘common sense’ to ask why things are the way they are. It is a brave and never-ending study tha

More about Holly
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?
"Having already completed a BSc degree I wanted to take the next step academically. Completing an MSc also opens up more opportunities in the future, for example working with Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) or going into advanced practice."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"NTU was one of only a handful offering the MSc Paramedic Science course. Nottingham is fairly local to where I live meaning I could stay at home during my study. NTU has a brand new clinical skills centre including virtual reality rooms giving scenarios a realistic edge."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"So far being a small group of students we have all made firm friends. We are lucky also to have lecturers that are really approachable and happy to help. We have had guest speakers who come and discuss specific elements of the course.

I have particularly enjoyed an Electrocardiogram (ECG) day with a specialist teacher, and a block of maternity taught by a midwife, with great teaching and scenarios."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"I am a course representative, ensuring that our voices as students are heard. We have meetings a few times per year to give feedback on how the course is being run and any problems we may be facing. This is also a great place to share the parts of the course we are enjoying."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"Working as a frontline service allows us to enter a person's life in their hour of need. It allows us to provide calm in an often-chaotic situation, and work with patients and their relatives to find the most appropriate outcome. Being a paramedic also involves problem-solving, as it can sometimes involve a complex extrication for example. It also makes for a great communicator as much of our work relies on teamwork with other teams such as police, the fire service, mountain rescue and other healthcare professionals in a variety of settings."

On Placement
Have you completed any work placements on your course?
"Our course is about 50% placement. Most of that time is spent with a practice educator working on the road as a frontline paramedic. I am based in Derbyshire and cover a vast area, which I really enjoy. I have enjoyed the opportunity to travel to places I may not have

NTU has provided me with high-quality lectures and amazing facilities, and I have a great social life here. The University is great at integrating every student into university life. I wouldn't change anything.

More about Jacob
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Sociology?
"When my undergraduate degree came to an end I found myself wanting more out of my education and looked for ways to take it further. Because of this, I chose to do a postgraduate degree which would allow spend another year learning in-depth about my subject and the world around me."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?
"I decided to study MA Sociology at NTU firstly because of the great teaching team at the university. I wanted to maintain the relationships I had built with my lectures during the course of my undergraduate degree and expand them further through my MA. I also have a passion for sociology. By the time my undergraduate degree had come to an end, there were still so many things I wanted to learn about and explore. Because of this choosing to do an MA at Nottingham Trent University seemed like a natural progression to me and it is something that I have deeply enjoyed."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"My experience on the MA Sociology course has been great. The teaching team are engaged, have in-depth knowledge of their subject area and are always happy to help. So far the highlight of the MA has been the service-learning module. During the module I had the opportunity to create my own project which looked to tackle loneliness in Nottingham for both students and the over 65’s. The module gives you the opportunity to tackle a social issue in the local area and allows you the make practical use of the sociology that you have learnt."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"For me social sciences is multidimensional. It allows me to learn about the social world around me, using quantitative and qualitative and theoretical methodologies to inform my learning and knowledge of the world around me. I believe it allows me to be both impactful through academic research, but also through a public lens. Helping me collaborate and engage with a wide range of social stakeholders from charities to government organisations."

Support
What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?
"The support available from staff and tutors at NTU is exceptional. There are always opportunities to engage with the learn from the staff in the social sciences department. Be it talking to them about any academic problems you may have, to more personal issues that they can support you with.

"Having started on the Foundation degree in Physics at NTU, to fast-tracking to the BSc (Hons) Physics course in second and third year; I continued on from undergraduate to postgraduate study, as my future career plans involved aspects of research. I want to do a PhD after I graduate so I decided a Masters degree would be the best step to get to the required level, I felt the MRes would better suit my needs and show my devotion to research.

The course stood out from other courses because I got the opportunity to focus on a discipline that I had a passion and interest in, especially the medical physics aspects of the course – something which I have a personal interest in. As well as the university being based in Nottingham which is a great city to study in; spending so much time in the city has only made me enjoy it more. Everything you need is essentially at your doorstep.

The taught modules of this course really do help prepare you for a career in physics, lab components and coursework are divided into different things you might come across as a professional. It’s a nice aspect to have as part of a course and something you don’t particularly experience at an undergraduate level, so it feels like I’ll be able to manage real working situations.

Research laboratories within the department are all kitted out with the equipment you need to be successful. There are plenty of places in Clifton Campus, including the library, to get access to computers and specialist software; and the turn around and support you get is fantastic.

I finished my BSc Honours degree in Medical Virology (Research) and when I researched institutions, I found that NTU had a high ranking in the Biomedical Science field. In addition, NTU gives students the opportunity to apply for a year placement. so these two reasons drove me to apply to study for my MSc degree here.

I saw the placement at University Hospitals, Birmingham advertised on the NTU employability site and I applied. I had to fight hard to pass through the interview stage since I was also competing with my peers, friend and lab mate!

My year-long placement will involve working in a cancer research laboratory where I will work with specific tissue samples to detect particular biomarkers that might improve the rapid diagnosis of certain type of cancers. I will certainly learn novel techniques and applications. I will also have the occasion to be mentored by highly skilled and experienced people.

I certainly think that my bioscience studies will help me a lot with my placement. I did a three month project that trained me and I was supervised by two PhD students who taught me a lot about things like cell culture and MTT assays. My MSc project supervisor supports me with my thesis writing skills and my lab work. These are a few of the skills that I might be able to take with me to placement.

Being awarded an NTU International scholarship and securing a placement in a prestigious cancer research institution has been a real highlight for me, as it gives me the opportunity to gain 'western world' work experience with the chance to learn and practice the latest advanced techniques in my field of study. Most of all, I have the chance to help make a difference in the cancer research world.

About you...
What degree did you take at undergraduate level and where did you study?
Psychology with criminology BSc at NTU.

Did you take a break in between your undergraduate degree and the postgraduate degree? If so, what did you do in this study break?
No, I went straight from undergraduate to Masters. It was during Covid and the uncertainty of the future made me want to apply for a Masters degree to specialise in the area.

Why did you want to undertake a postgraduate degree, and do you think it has benefitted your career aspirations?
I wanted to specialise in the area of forensics and alongside my volunteering this course was a perfect match. The MSc has benefitted me greatly as I have successfully landed a job in the field.

Why NTU...
Why did you choose NTU and your course?
I was already at NTU and wanted to continue my study here. NTU provides amazing links with the community where I have been able to apply my knowledge and learning to various volunteering roles, facilitated by NTU. NTU fosters an environment for adaptability and improvement, wholly representative of my values.

The course included modules that were of high interest to me and I wanted to explore these further to deepen my understanding and improve my academic development.

Could you describe your experience of being a Postgraduate NTU student?
I’ve loved it! It’s very hard work and very independent but it’s really rewarding when you receive feedback from work and achieve better grades than you did in undergraduate. It’s definitely worth it. The community on our course is fantastic, the tutors and staff are always there to support you, as are your fellow students.

How would you describe the support from your tutors, university staff and student services?
Really good! The tutors and staff are so helpful and always willing to help you whenever you need it, even when they’re not directly involved with a module.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre...
What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

Vibrant, modern, exciting.

Where is a good place to eat, drink or visit in the city?
Bunk – they do really nice cocktails and food with happy hour everyday!

Visiting the caves also provides a unique experience especially if you’re from a town or big city.

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?
Yes, it was slightly easier for me as I was here for my undergraduate and

The university has provided me with excellent teaching, a full range of facilities to develop my existing skills and build on new ones, the range of clubs and societies has allowed me to make friends for life and the city is a great place to live.

More about Lejla
Why NTU
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Youth?
"I choose my postgraduate studies at NTU because I had some experience in the sector and I wanted to gain a degree from a UK university. NTU was a good choice because it is a vibrant university with lots of opportunities for students. The fact that is one of the modern universities meant it was a match for me."

Why did you choose to study MA Youth Work Leadership and Practice at NTU?
"I was attracted to NTU because of the practical experience the university provides. The courses are more hands-on than theoretical, which is the case with my MA studies qualification. Having placement opportunities as part of the course was important to me.

NTUs values are all about inclusion, equality and providing opportunities - and I knew this was something I wanted to be part of."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"I have loved my course and the classmates and lecturers who have helped make this the best year of my life so far.

The highlight of the course for me has been the support from the academic team. Whenever I've needed help I've been able to get in touch with the course team who have always been so helpful and insightful.

I've loved the interaction and the way the lectures are delivered. Our course is full of conversations and sharing experiences which have made me think a lot about my future career plans.

I have learnt so many skills that will help me once I complete my studies in the world of work. I've learnt a lot about youth work as a profession, as well as how to behave yourself as a young professional in any setting."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"I had a part-time job as a student ambassador for the Centre for Community Engagement, and I volunteered in a youth centre in Nottingham as part of my placement. I was also a Course Representative which was an amazing experience to be part of the Students Union as well and go for interesting events such as Mental Health events. I've been part of so many events which has made my student experience so special."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"For me, Social Sciences are building and studying the connections between humans and society. This can make life hard sometimes but also beautiful and insightful."

On Placement
Have you

My name is Manyando. I am pursuing a Master of Science in Engineering Management. I came to NTU in September 2018. I am an engineer and a mum to 2 little people.

Why did you choose to study at Nottingham Trent University?

I loved the content of the course. My background is in telecommunications engineering and I have close to 10 years’ experience under my belt. My role at work started to evolve and I realised the knowledge gap I had in terms of “soft skills” and other skills to help me grow as an upcoming leader in business. I also saw that the mix of courses in the program was interesting, progressive and fit right into the direction of the content I needed to learn.

How did you feel about coming to a UK university?

I had been to the UK to visit before and appreciated the standard of education the UK is known for. The choice was clear for me when I decided to pursue postgraduate studies.

Tell us about your course. What is the best bit?

I am doing an MSc in Engineering Management. It has allowed me to appreciate concepts that are relevant to a global business leader in the engineering context (concepts like globalisation, project management, entrepreneurship and product development). The various module leaders have been very supportive and provide feedback when required for assessments and such.


Would you recommend your course to other students?

Definitely!

As the winner of the Person of the Year 2022 Sense award, Max Fisher is a truly inspiring NTU alum. Graduating in 2019, Max now leads an exciting scientific career after overcoming barriers surrounding their disability. As an undergraduate, Max studied BSc Pharmacology, before continuing their studies with a Masters in Pharmacology. We spoke to them about their NTU memories and the challenges they faced after graduation.

Tell us about your time as an NTU student…

I’m going to be honest, but let me preface it with I wouldn’t change a single thing! NTU was my insurance choice. I knew essentially nothing about NTU, or even Nottingham, and wasn’t able to visit until moving in day and yet it was the perfect fit.

NTU taught me that I am STRONG! My time at NTU taught me exactly what it meant to work hard, and to be in control of my own learning. I learned lots of practical lab skills, as well as lots about pharmacology and about other disciplines, such as genetics. I use my knowledge in Genetics every day at work now, despite saying “I don’t want to work in genetics”!

What are some of your favourite NTU memories?

I have hundreds of memories that make me smile - lots of them involve learning from mistakes. For example, accidentally making “unicorn tears” while doing a western blot! Very pretty, but not at all helpful assay-wise. I have very fond memories of student politics, representing NTSU at conferences, representing trans students as the Equality and Diversity Officer for gender, and being a part of societies. I also learned that I do in fact enjoy sports, I just needed to find one that was accessible for me as someone who lives with chronic pain.

More about Max
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Education?
"I chose to study MA Education because I wanted to widen my pedagogical understanding. Having been a Product Designer for 10 years I had the technical knowledge but felt I was missing the wider educational context. After completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP) at NTU I want to further build on that knowledge to Masters level."

Why did you choose the MA Education (part-time) course at NTU?
"I chose this course because I am employed by NTU and I saw it as a good opportunity to progress my career within Higher Education. I also had conversations with the course leader surrounding the issues within Secondary D&T Education and thought the course would help in that area."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"My experience of the course overall has been extremely positive. Whilst it's not an easy task to complete an MA part-time alongside a Senior Lecturer role, it has been extremely rewarding and has actively improved my practice.

The highlights have definitely been meeting the other students on the course, and collaborating with them on external projects. The course attracts such a diverse selection of students, it's great to get an insight into all the aspects of teaching.

I also really enjoyed the Social Justice module, as it got me to question my own place within society and education, and challenged me to think of ways I can help and change the cultural hegemony within my discipline."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"I have been involved in a number of self-initiated projects off the back of the course. I ran a project with some of our first-year Design students and a fellow student on the course who was an Educator within a Prison. We tasked the students with designing for prisoners within their cells to help encourage students' ideas of empathy.

Also as part of my Dissertation project, I have been actively involved with a local primary school, looking at Creativity and inspiring the Designers of the future.

Both of these projects would not have happened if it wasn’t for the connections I made on the course with students and tutors."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"To me, Social Science means exploring what it is to be human and how we can use those

More about Maya
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Psychological Wellbeing and Mental Health?
"I did a Masters as I wanted to really apply what I had learnt personally and academically through my Bachelors at NTU. I also wanted to further my interest in gender and racial equality and environmental activism by engaging in NTU societies."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"I chose this course as I was unsure about which career path to follow after graduating. I chose a Masters with the intention of pursuing a career in therapy. However, this has now changed and through getting work experience externally and engaging more in NTU life through societies and events I have chosen to pursue a career in public relations.

This Masters course has definitely been the best experience for me. As I am familiar with some of the staff from my Bachelors, I just felt at home here. I knew that doing a Masters in Psychological Wellbeing and Mental Health would be the best fit for me."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"Meeting the group of friends that I have made on my course has been the biggest highlight of all. I have really found people within on my course with similar stories to me. They have been a rock for me during my Masters and we all support each other whether it is personal, mental health or even just help with any coursework, assignments or exam prep.

I come from a mixed-race background and having such a diverse group on my Masters Course has been so important to me. Meeting people from different countries and different backgrounds has related to me on a personal level due to my Indian Heritage, and it has been so lovely to hear their own stories and journeys.

Also, my tutor for my Research Project has been a huge support and has constantly kept in contact regarding my progress with it so I don’t feel thrown in the deep end with such a big project."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"During COVID-19, as I couldn’t be at university I volunteered in my local area for a community group called Mapesbury Mutual Aid. Here I worked with children who struggled with education. The group also set up a food bank as a result of the pandemic.

After I graduated, I started my Masters and joined the Sustainability Society and Woman’s Welfare Society. I have attended variou

Why did you choose to study a PGCE?
"I knew from a few years back that I wanted to teach. The matter was when! I decided after the pandemic that it was the right change for a career change. I’m so glad I did! It was the best decision I’ve made. I like the fact I am able to influence the lives of children and watch their confidence grow. As a child, school wasn’t easy for me! There were a couple of teachers who really helped me improve my academic life. I think experiencing how much of a difference a caring and dedicated teacher made in my own life made me want to have the same impact on other young people's lives."

Why did you choose your PGCE course at NTU?
"I originally did my BSc degree at NTU, since living in Nottingham, it was easier to commute from home to NTU. After having my interview, I had a feeling that it would be a great fit."

What was your experience of your course?
"I had a great, supportive mentor and course leader. He was really encouraging and pushed me to be the best teacher. When things were stressful, there was always an opportunity to express my concerns and deal with them quickly. Finishing the PGCE was a really amazing feeling."

On Placement
Did you complete any work placements on your course?
"As part of my PGCE, there were two placements. One was October-December, the second January to June; both in secondary schools within Nottingham. I was given some element of choice and was fully supported at both. I gained valuable skills in various teaching styles, including modelling and effective demonstration."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?
"Submitting my last assignment and completing my last day on placement, after what felt like a really long, busy year, having completed it was amazing!"

Support
What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?
"The support during my time at NTU was invaluable, it was very seen as a hassle and was always responded to quickly."

Tell us about what you’re doing now
"I currently work at a secondary school in Nottingham and have recently become the Head of Food and Textiles as a second year Early Career Teacher (ECT)."

More about Moein
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Psychology?
"The decision to pursue a postgraduate degree was motivated by both professional and personal aspirations. After obtaining a Bachelor's degree in counselling and working as a psychology assistant in a clinic for one year, followed by three years of experience in the education sector as a teacher and school counsellor, it became evident that further education was necessary to qualify for advanced practice in the therapy field.

The desire to expand knowledge in psychology, in terms of depth and breadth, while drawing upon the expertise of faculty members in a university setting, was also a driving force in this decision.

Given the increased requirements for advanced practice in the therapy profession, a postgraduate degree appeared to be the most practical and feasible means of achieving these goals. In addition to professional development, personal growth was a significant factor in this decision. Pursuing a postgraduate degree would allow for the acquisition of a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of psychology while benefiting from the knowledge and experience of faculty members at the university.

Thus, the decision to pursue a postgraduate degree was driven by a combination of professional requirements and personal goals. It was seen as a practical and viable way to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to advance in the therapy profession while also satisfying personal aspirations."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"The rationale for selecting the course at NTU was based on several factors. First, the accreditation by the British Psychological Society (BPS) provided assurance that the program met the rigorous standards set by the professional body. This accreditation ensured that the course content was current and relevant to the field, as well as meeting the requirements for professional accreditation.

Secondly, the program offered a wide range of subjects, which was important for gaining a comprehensive understanding of psychology. The variety of topics ensured that students had the opportunity to explore different areas of interest and develop a broader skill set. This was advantageous for those seeking to pursue a career in psychology, as it provided them with the flexibility to specialize in areas that aligned with their interests and career goals.

Thirdly, the different means of assess

More about Nabila
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Education?
"With 11 years of teaching experience, I chose the postgraduate degree to enhance my knowledge in the education sector. This course has not only given me insight into teaching pedagogy but also credibility for my teaching career."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"The subjects provided by NTU in this postgraduate course, such as curriculum innovation, social justice in education and policy and practice, can be directly translated into a mainstream education setting."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"It's been amazing. I love the lecturers on my course - they are so supportive. They have created an environment where students can reach out and discuss anything and everything related to the course and beyond."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"I was given the opportunity by one of my lecturers to deliver a presentation to the part-time MA students. This helped me to build my confidence and believe in myself."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre
Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?
"Making friends in NTU wasn’t hard for me and I've even made friends from other courses across the uni. I love the diverse environment, which has helped me settle in really quickly. "

As an International Student
Why did you want to study in the UK?
"I visited the UK on holiday and I loved it. I also studied a couple of other courses in UK previously, so it made sense to continue my studies here."

What experiences have you had as an international student at NTU?
"NTU strives to be a multicultural and inclusive university. For example, there is a multicultural prayer room, as well as catering for different diets with halal food and vegan options."

As an international student, this makes me feel valued for who I am and where I come from. I feel included at NTU.

What advice would you give to help new international students get settled in at university?
"Try to get involved in everything that NTU has to offer aside from the course. You'll gain valuable experiences and additional information for your CV."

"The staff are really good, really helpful, for projects and publishing, which is made me want to stay on and finish my Masters at Trent."

Nathan completed his MRes in Sport and Exercise Psychology at NTU and is now currently completing his PhD with the thesis title of 'Examining the feasibility of physically active lessons within UK primary schools, and their impact on cognitive function, academic achievement, and well-being’.

Why did you choose to study postgraduate at NTU

Having already undergone my undergraduate degree in Psychology with Criminology at NTU, I was extremely familiar with the strong teaching practices within NTU departments and staff. I was also aware of the great facilities and resources, particularly within the sport science department.

What was the highlight of course?

Being awarded the "best project prize" for my research project. My research project examined the associations between self-control, and physical activity, physical fitness, cardiometabolic health, and well-being for children and young people aged 9-14 years. The award was announced during my graduation at the same time as I was awarded my postgraduate degree.

Did studying a postgraduate course help develop your skills?

Yes studying a postgraduate course definitely helped. As I am now undertaking a PhD within the SHAPE (hyperlink to webpage) research centre here at NTU, my time studying greatly helped to develop academic skills I use every day while completing my PhD. My PhD thesis title is 'Examining the feasibility of physically active lessons within UK primary schools, and their impact on cognitive function, academic achievement, and well-being'.

What are your future career plans?

I would like to complete my PhD and then go on to become a research fellow/lecturer. My goal is to become a lecturer within Sport and Exercise Psychology. I wish to do this due to a strong desire to pursue a career within academia. This has been influenced by great experiences during my masters degree. I have also been inspired by working closely with staff members within the sport science department at NTU.

More about Nguyen
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in International Relations?
"I think it was the right time for me to study something new. I was eager to fulfil my academic potential and progress my career development.

More precisely, I wanted to make a change in my life after more than six years as a white-collar worker. I decided to pursue my dream of studying for a postgraduate degree abroad and continue to uncover my potential and reach beyond my limits."

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?
"I am interested in global issues and curious about the balance of power or the world order, and the mechanism for cooperation or conflict. Therefore I wanted to study International Relations.

I researched other universities in Sheffield, Lincoln, London, Liverpool and Manchester before applying to the MA International Relations course at NTU. However, since I found the course description very specific, in line with my career aspirations and the modules interest me, I decided to apply.

Nottingham is a great place for students and the living costs here are cheaper compared with other cities, which is very important since I am self-funded. Also, NTU has been recommended by many international students, who studied here before."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"It is quite broad but very interesting and informative. I have learned a lot about research methods, theories and different international organisations, as well as the role of big powers in the world. I've even learned more about history and global politics, which are totally new to me as my undergraduate degree was in English Studies.

The course has given me a better understanding of climate change, war and conflicts, renewable energy, nuclear weapons and natural resources scarcity. I have become more interested in the course as I study until now.

The lecturers are amazing and really supportive. They have made the lessons more exciting than ever. At the end of term two, I decided on my future career direction in green growth and sustainability."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"I have not been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities during my time in the UK yet but very soon I will be joining one project called Wednesday Afternoon Project by British Red Cross aiming at

More about Niall
About you...
What degree did you take at undergraduate level and where did you study?
BA (Hons) English and Film & TV at NTU

Did you take a break in between your undergraduate degree and the postgraduate degree? If so, what did you do in this study break?
Yes, I took 5 years out. During this time I worked in a variety of administrative and customer service roles, working for Capital One, The Open University and then in January 2020, I started working in Employability at NTU, which was a nice full circle moment. I wasn’t ready for my masters 5 years ago and needed some work experience and figure out what I wanted to do, and all signs brought me back here to the place that feels like home.

Why did you want to undertake a postgraduate degree, and do you think it has benefitted your career aspirations?
I always knew I wanted to do a Masters, but I had no idea what I wanted to do. My undergrad was full of transferrable skills but was never a career move. In my time away, I figured out that I wanted to help people and to do that through supporting their mental wellbeing. I wanted to understand the human brain and it’s complexities and use that knowledge to serve those who need it the most. Without this qualification, I would not be BPS accredited, which is what I need to take the next step into being a Clinical Psychologist.

Why NTU…
Why did you choose NTU and your course?
I did my undergrad here and it was my favourite place ever! I grew up in Nottingham, but strangely nothing feels more home than the university. When I returned to NTU as a member of staff it became even more clear that there was nowhere else I would rather have been. And they happened to do the course with the accreditation I needed, so it was a win-win.

Could you describe your experience of being a Postgraduate NTU student?
A whirlwind. It is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, experiences of my life. It has required remarkable time management (as I work alongside), a mental fortitude and a determination to succeed. However, it has been magical and rewarding – I have made new friends, found new skills and even won an award! NTU was the right choice for me.

How would you describe the support from your tutors, university staff and student services?
NTU staff cannot do enough to help! The lecturers are knowledgeable, patient and (crucially) very available to be contacted! I have not had any issues with teachin

More about Nóra
Why NTU...
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?

I have a career in mind which requires me to obtain postgraduate degrees, both a Masters and later a PhD. So doing my degree was essential.

Why did you choose your course at NTU?

Whilst I studied at NTU for my undergraduate degree, I have heard a lot of positives about this course (about the quality of teaching, the wide range of materials covered, and being great training for a research career). Having already experienced the quality of NTU, it was an easy choice to apply for the recommended course at this university.

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights?

I absolutely love this course. The lecturers are very passionate about their topics, and they make their classes engaging and interesting. It is undeniably an intense course, but I have gained new knowledge from a great range of fields, which has already proven useful as I am working on my final research project.

Support...
What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?

The tutors, project supervisors and lecturers on the individual modules are very helpful and supportive. I felt that I can ask all the questions there are, be it complex or simple, or even the obvious. It was definitely a supportive environment for growing.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre…
Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?

Since I was a previous student, it was easy to get around the campus, and it was actually really nice to still be around my friends I got to know at undergraduate. But one of the things that made my experience even better, was the small size of this course. Our little group soon got to know one another and I made great and very supportive friends.

The Next Steps…
What’s next for you after NTU?

I am hoping to continue the steps towards being a researcher. The next step is likely to be a research assistant job, to apply my taught knowledge from this course in practice. Then, I will be aiming to get into a PhD studentship in the near future.

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

The staff, be it within the course or in employability, are very helpful in advising about searching for jobs or PhD opportunities.

Has the employability team helped you plan for life beyond NTU as a postgraduate student?

I have received so

More about Olivia
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?
"I chose to study a postgraduate degree as it was the next step in my career plan to gain the required skills and knowledge on my path to becoming a Chartered Psychologist."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"I chose to study Psychological Wellbeing and Mental Health at NTU due to the core modules and the course focusing on Psychological Wellbeing which addressed the main areas I was focused on gaining knowledge and competency on.

Secondly, reviews on student support for international students especially from mature students who graduated in previous years made me choose NTU. As a mature student from another country, support was key for me as I already envisaged the challenges I would encounter and knew the importance of having the right support system.

Lastly, NTU's research and teaching standard is excellent."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"Three months into the course, I started feeling overwhelmed with all the adjustments and pressures of the culture shock of adapting to British life, academic demands, and language struggles. I started feeling inadequate and was sceptical to ask for help as I didn’t want to be judged and felt I could handle it all myself as per “strong African woman”.

After a class on mental health, I decided to talk to the course tutor and for the first time, I realised I didn’t have to bear the burden alone as he acknowledged what I was feeling and made me feel accepted and that there was support available. He referred me to the student support services and within 24 hours, I got a call from Support services, and they helped me deal with all I was feeling and got me back on my feet in no time.

This experience prompted me to become a student mental health champion as I realised a lot of international students were in my shoes but didn’t know what to do due to cultural factors and fear of being judged as not good enough or face being stigmatised, some just need encouragement or support from a fellow student to seek for help. I am grateful to NTU support services."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?
"Yes, as a student mental health champion, I joined the well-being walks, weekly support, craft making, art in the Den, and the Look After Your Mate workshop aimed at helping studen

More about Oluwadaunfunmi Emmanuel
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Education?
"I have chosen to advance my educational qualification with a postgraduate degree because I believe it will bring me closer to achieving my dream profession."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"I chose to study MA Education at NTU because of its outstanding teaching and learning. I was captivated by the programme’s modules and its impacts on global educational trends and current practices.

My experience has been thought-provoking and intriguing. All seminars and lectures have been interactive, as I have been able to discuss, learn about the educational practices in other countries, and debate current policies and practices.

For me, the most interesting module is Curriculum Innovations, as it has increased my confidence and potential of innovating a curriculum design that I believe would be much appreciated by the Nigerian government."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"Influencing the world and impacting people’s lives. Social sciences encompass all forms of disciplines that are people-oriented. It is about interacting with people in a quest to solve problems and advance their livelihood."


Support
What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?
"The support from tutors and staff has been exceptional, with prompt email replies, tutorials about coursework, the opportunity to defer assessment submissions, and more general support."

What's next?
What’s next for you after NTU?
"I aim to further my education at NTU, by applying for a PhD."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?
"NTU has been very helpful in providing professional information and guidance to enable me to advance my career. The regular career tips and workshop programmes have provided me with clarity on relevant career requirements in the U.K and abroad."

Has the employability team helped you plan for life beyond NTU as a postgraduate student?
"Through webinars, programmes and carer workshops I have gained tips on career planning within and beyond the UK."

As an international student
Why did you want to study in the UK?
"I wanted to study in the UK because of its English-speaking culture and being home to globally recognised universities."

What experiences have you had as an international student at NTU?
"As an international stud

More about Phoebe
Why NTU...
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?
"I completed my undergraduate degree in psychology a few years ago in Huddersfield and didn’t initially want to study a Masters straight off the back of that. I went to work for a couple of years in a couple of different jobs which I loved, including a support worker for adults with learning disabilities and a Healthcare Assistant in a children’s hospice. I also spent a summer at an American summer camp which was so much fun! During my time working I was thinking about what career I wanted to pursue and realised I really enjoy working with people. I had a browse around at the different options for careers and decided I wanted to purse clinical psychology. It had been on my radar during my undergraduate degree but at the time I wasn’t feeling motivated as it was probably going to be a 10-year path to being qualified.

I enjoyed studying my undergrad and knew a Masters would only really benefit me and studying at a postgrad level would be good for when I apply for the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy). I wanted to be taught and learn at the next level and complete a postgrad research project."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?
"I have always had an interest in crime and forensic settings, through the TV I watch and books I read, as well as my undergraduate course modules, so I really wanted to incorporate that element into my course. Also, psychology is of course closely linked to mental health so thought that would be a good avenue to pursue. Forensic Mental Health was the perfect marriage of the two elements and there were only two universities that teach a Forensic Mental Health course. One of which was NTU.

When reading about the course I knew straight away it would be right up my street. I also came to an open day and enjoyed the feel of the university campus and had a really good chat with Jenny, one of the lecturers who explained a bit more about the course and answered my questions which sealed the deal for me, and I knew I wanted to study here!"

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights?
"I have really enjoyed studying my course so far! I wasn’t quite sure what to expect in terms of the module content, but it has been super interesting and all new, which is always nice! I feel like I have learnt a lot of stuff that I can apply to my future work and that has helped me du

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?

During my undergraduate course I developed a keen interest in VR and its effects on visual perception and, upon discovering Cyberpsychology as a course I realised how much more I wanted to know about how computers interact with the brain. This course offered to explore many different applications of how technology and the brain interacted, and I knew this would be something I’d be very interested in.

Why did you choose your course at NTU?

NTU was one of the few universities offering the MSc Cyberpsychology course when I applied, and as it’s an emerging field I wanted to be part of one of the leading courses in the discipline. I am also a generational NTU student as both of my parents studied there, so I had a bit of an insight into the quality of teaching on offer at NTU.

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights?

The Cyberpsychology course offered insight into many of the applications of technology I had been interested in, as well as presenting me with new applications. This led to my interest into auditory perception, which then went onto inform my PhD application. One of the highlights for me was the opportunity to design and run my own research. This wasn’t an opportunity that really presented itself during my undergraduate course and it was exciting to do so in my MSc.

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?

During my MSc I had the opportunity to present my dissertation findings at a conference in Magdeburg, Germany. It was an amazing opportunity to meet other academics in the field and hear about other upcoming research. With the support of my supervisor we were able to provide a presentation on the cognitive mechanisms of text-to-speech, all while building my own presentation and networking skills.

More about Roshani
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Education?
"Having studied social sciences at undergraduate level and worked in the education sector, I chose a postgraduate degree in Education to enhance my specialist knowledge and skills in education policy, curriculum development and research skills.

Most of all, studying towards a postgraduate degree has provided me with the opportunity to be a part of a team of academic lecturers and a professional peer group to learn from by sharing knowledge and practical experiences."

Why did you choose to study the MA Education course at NTU?
"The MA in Education program at NTU develops the understanding of theories, policies, curriculum development and research skills. The program is designed to broaden students' understanding through the application of theoretical knowledge in wider contexts.

Furthermore, students gain the knowledge and skills for independent curriculum development and education research to be used in their chosen area.

The MA in Education provides wider opportunities to develop professional skills that are required to become an autonomous and confident practitioner."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"The course consists of seminars and lectures with peer discussion, reflection, critical thinking, and debates. Every member is given a chance to actively participate in discussions. Throughout the course, I have become more confident in sharing my views and experience within the group.

At the beginning of the course, I found it difficult to read journals, explore theories, policies, and contemporary debates. However, I was able to get further support from the library team which really helped.

Studying has allowed me to broaden my intellectual skills and autonomy to understand complex topics and solve problems by applying my knowledge and expertise."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"My view of social sciences is understanding the social phenomenon that causes changes in society. My intention in studying social science is to be a voice against social inequality, particularly in education."

The Next Steps
What’s next for you after NTU?
"I intend to work as a Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) teacher - supporting students with learning disabilities to provide them with the opportunity to learn and live up to their potential in society."
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In the dynamic world of sports science, where the boundaries between disciplines blur, Sebastian Mora Hernandez stands as a testament to the versatility and impact of postgraduate education. Sebastian studied BSc Sport and Exercise Science and completed his MRes Sport Science at NTU in 2022.

Since then he has forged a meaningful career path that seamlessly merges physiology, psychology, and clinical practice. Sebastian is currently an Exercise Oncology Researcher at University Hull with the Hull York Medical School.

His commitment extends beyond just research; he actively contributes to society by improving the quality of life and survival outcomes for those affected by cancer through exercise.

Sebastian's decision to pursue the MRes in Sport Science at NTU was driven by a desire to deepen his knowledge and keep avenues open for both sports and clinical settings:
Sebastian: I wanted to complement my practice with further knowledge. At the same time, I wanted to keep my doors open to work in sport as well as to work in a clinical setting. The MRes Sport Science allowed me to combine more than just one discipline - physiology with psychology, which was ideal for my future plans.

Throughout the course, Sebastian found himself engaged in various topics and was particularly excited by the opportunity to delve deep into his dissertation on dyspnoea:
Sebastian: The lecturing and support staff were great throughout, making themselves available whenever I needed them. The highlight of the entire course was definitely being able to shape my dissertation exactly how I wanted it with my supervisor supporting me all throughout.

After graduating, I decided to have a year out from studies and began working as a 1st line support analyst in my hometown. During this role, I decided I needed more of a challenge with my day to day tasks and began to look down the Masters route.

I researched subjects and key topics that interested me, particularly cyber security. I had completed my undergraduate degree in Computing at De Montfort University, Leicester, but felt the need of a change. I had a few universities in mind, but NTU proved to be the most attractive, particularly as it was named university of the year.

The course also offers a range of modules I feel will open doors for me to pursue a career in cyber security. I also looked at the virtual tours on the NTU website and the design and innovation of the Clifton Campus really drew my attention. I felt NTU would be ideal for me.

The course
Many of the students on my course don’t directly have a computing background and the diversity of the people and their experiences makes it fun to share and exchange knowledge.

The modules are split up into lectures, tutorials and seminars. These are very engaging and makes it easy to understand new concepts and avoid confusion.

What did you learn during your time at NTU – both inside and outside of lectures?
The short answer would be a lot. The longer answer would be that outside of lectures I learnt more about myself, other people, and the world in a sense. Being dropped off at Clifton campus in my first year and put into halls with random people was not daunting, in fact it was fun. I can happily say the people I met in my first year were my friends I carried throughout my undergraduate and my Master’s degree and even today. My favourite memories outside of lectures were fresher repping, working for the Students’ Union and their club night, Double vision 2015-2016.

I also learned that your career is not linear, which I am grateful for. I undertook a Biological Sciences degree but towards the end of the 2nd year I realised I was not enjoying my degree, nor did I want a career in this field. Fortunately, NTU has great advice around MSc degrees so I spoke to career advisers who mentioned that having a Masters in a different field could be beneficial as it makes you more employable as you can draw knowledge from two fields.

I opted to take a year break in between my undergraduate and my masters to work for the Students’ Union as the Vice President Postgraduate Officer. This allowed me to understand the Postgraduate world at NTU, make improvements before I undertook my own and think about what field I wanted to do my MSc in.

I decided to study MSc IT Security as it was still within the School of Science and Technology, so I could take some transferable skills I have learnt in my BSc and apply it to this new MSc i.e., technical writing. Also, the job market for technology jobs was rising and still is. I look back at my MSc with fond memories, every lesson was exciting as I was learning something completely knew and, in a sense, starting from scratch. In addition to this, I was living with 2 of my good friends who were also doing their masters in different fields from their BScs so there was a real comradery between us.

Sofiya Mehmet completed her BSc in Sport Science and Coaching and MRes in Exercise Physiology NTU.

She is currently a Clinical Physiologist specialising in Respiratory within the NHS. Her postgraduate experience was highlighted by practical sessions, close connections with peers and module leaders, and engaging with fascinating concepts such as fatigue kinetics and the hormonal responses of females to intense exercise.

Sofiya's decision to pursue postgraduate studies at NTU was mainly influenced by the specialised nature of the exercise physiology course and the university's outstanding facilities.
Sofiya: NTU postgraduate courses aligned with my job prospects, specifically exercise physiology. The course appealed to me the most as it was a specialised area within sport science, it was also the most stimulating module for me within my undergraduate degree which is why I wanted to pursue it further. I was also keen to study at NTU, the university had amazing facilities and the sport side was amazing!

Her postgraduate experience was highlighted by practical sessions, close connections with peers and module leaders, and engaging with fascinating concepts.
Sofiya: There were many studies throughout my degree that I found interesting within the exercise physiology module. Fatigue kinetics being one of many, it was a very interesting study to take part in. Studying fatigue kinetics and its relation to exercise and athletic performance whilst looking at the physiological determents which limits an individual's ability to sustain exercise was fascinating. I also researched between gender, hormones, and exercise. Looking at female’s hormone response in relation to intense exercise is also another concept I found interesting, researching into females and sport was not something I had done before.

Overall, I had the best experience. My highlights are the practical sessions, each session was something new and you get to take part in the experimental trials. I also become close with the people and module leaders on the course which made it fun and enjoyable.

About you...
What degree did you take at undergraduate level and where did you study?
I did my Bachelors in Clinical Psychology from Amity University Mumbai.

Did you take a break in between your undergraduate degree and the postgraduate degree? If so, what did you do in this study break?
I did take a break because of COVID. The time was conducive for me to invest in my inner wellbeing and gather tools and technologies to do the same.

Why did you want to undertake a postgraduate degree, and do you think it has benefitted your career aspirations?
I wanted to add my prowess in the field of mental health and wellbeing and this course catered to my expectations. It has given me a holistic perspective on the contemporary needs of mental health and what needs to be done to have the maximum effect on human wellbeing.

Why NTU...
Why did you choose NTU and your course?
The modules of the course were in alignment with what I wanted to study further and NTU was the only university which provided it. Hence, NTU.

Could you describe your experience of being a Postgraduate NTU student?
Studying at NTU, I didn’t ever feel like a postgraduate student. Mingling with students from various career streams and education levels in clubs and societies made me feel an undergraduate fresher. It is warm and friendly only if you are not afraid to take the first step.

How would you describe the support from your tutors, university staff and student services?
The staff are warm and very supportive and the same can be proclaimed about the student services. I must say, I have exploited them from head to toe and every time they were more than willing to help me.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre...
What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

Serene, student-friendly, nightlife.

Where is a good place to eat, drink or visit in the city?
The center has all kinds of shops and restaurants. You can also find several of them in the Victoria Centre. Being an Indian, of course, Tamatanga, Dosa and Chutney. If I wanted to eat vegetarian which is also cheap, Taco Bell is my go-to place. Nottingham Castle is worth a view and how can you forget Mr Robinhood, just waiting to pierce his target?

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?
Definitely. I did say, you can make friends here easily if you get out of your comfort zone and are the first to start a conversation. If you don’t und

The course staff have been instrumental in supporting my learning and university experience through personalised one-to-one tutorials, insightful group sessions, and progress reviews conducted in our workplace.

More about Tim
Tim is currently working as a Transport Planner after graduating with Ma(Hons) in International Relations. Tim spoke to us about his time studying at NTU, his love for the course and why he decided to pursue other avenues leading him to where he is now.




Tell us why you chose to study at NTU?
I originally did a bachelor’s degree (International Relations with History) and enjoyed the course so much I decided to further my study with a Masters degree. I really liked the campus at Clifton when I was a first year, and saw most of my studies being undertaken there, however the Masters course was mostly done in City.



What did you learn whilst at NTU, do you have any favourite memories?

I learned a lot about “who I was” when I was at university, as cliché as that sounds! It was good having a blank canvas in terms of not knowing anyone and being in the deep end when making friends and socialising. I discovered new hobbies and past times during my 4 years of university, and met some amazing people, many of who I’m still friends with today!

My lecturers taught me to be more confident in expressing my opinion, and being open to take criticism – be it positive or negative. Managing workloads and a busy social life was key to being successful, although I did let that slip a bit in third year!

I was a founding member of the Nottingham Trent Archery Club in my first year and it makes me smile to look back when the club was just starting out and compare it to what it is today! I’m glad to see it’s gone from strength to strength, competing in National and International Events.

What did you do that enhanced your employment prospects, did you have a career goal in mind?
If I’m honest, I was more interested in the course itself and learning than thinking about the employment prospects. I knew there were many jobs suitable for such a degree, but none of them seemed to appeal to me. The only jobs that caught my interest were working alongside the UN, however the majority of them had two big hurdles I wasn’t able to overcome. The first was most of them required re-location to London or abroad and the second was they were initially un-paid. A shame, but sometimes you have to admit defeat and pursue other interests.

Can you take us through a typical working day at Nationwide Platforms as a Transport Planner?
Nationwide Platforms provide scissor lifts and boom lifts to construction sites,

More about Yanan
About you...
What degree did you take at undergraduate level and where did you study?
Fashion brand management, University of Central Lancashire.

Did you take a break in between your undergraduate degree and the postgraduate degree? If so, what did you do in this study break?
Yes, after my undergraduate degree I chose to return to China to start my own business. I opened milk tea and yoghurt shops in three separate cities in China from 2017 to 2018 and transferred these shops after a year in business to work in Singapore. Because in the process of starting my own business I realised my strengths and weaknesses. So I want to correct my weaknesses and improve my personal skills through work experience.

Why did you want to undertake a postgraduate degree, and do you think it has benefitted your career aspirations?
First of all, it was in my original life plan that I would definitely do a Master's degree, but I just wanted to try to be financially independent after my undergraduate degree and use the money I earned to pay for my postgraduate studies. Although my undergraduate studies were in business, my post-graduate studies involved overseas business, both in my own business ventures and in my work experience in Singapore. However, country-to-country relations can have a significant impact on overseas business, which can be both positive and negative. So I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of international relations as a profession through my postgraduate studies.

Why NTU…
Why did you choose NTU and your course?
In 2012, I was 17 years old. My first stop to study abroad was the school NTU, although I was only enrolled in a one-year foundation course at NTIC. But I wanted to return to school in the UK after four years and I still wanted to make NTU and the city of Nottingham a new start in my life.

Could you describe your experience of being a Postgraduate NTU student?
It is quite different from being an undergraduate student, with very few classes per week, which means more time is needed for independent study. It is important to learn to organise your time more wisely. Of course, the difference in my major also made my first semester a struggle, but I was fortunate that every teacher was very conscientious and responsible, and the lectures were delivered in a way that made me feel at ease.

To sum up, there are three points.

1. The degree of active learning is different

I came straight into the postgraduate study after finishing my undergraduate study in South Korea."

What has been your greatest achievement as a Nottingham Trent University postgraduate student?

As an MRes student, I wrote numerous journal article-type assessments and most of them are expected to be published in recent future."


How does postgraduate study differ from undergraduate study?

Undergraduate study was mostly about listening to lectures, memorising the contents, and taking exams or submitting assessments. Whereas, postgraduate study was mostly about doing independent research, self-learning and writing academic journal articles."

What was your favourite part of the course?

Interesting research topics which you could pursue with great member of staff. Sport and Exercise Psychology staff were really supportive, not only towards your MRes study but also towards your future career."

What skills do you feel you have learned?

I have learned both quantitative and qualitative research in psychology. I believe these skills will be helpful for me should I pursue a PhD in the future."


What are your career plans?

My first plan is to work a couple of years in a hedge fund and then continue my PhD study in high performance environment."


Have they changed as a result of postgraduate study?

Definitely. I became confident that high performance environment is something that really interests me."

What advice would you give to a prospective student?

Postgraduate study is all about self-learning and self-improvement. Therefore, you should be self-motivated and really focus on your research area if you want to spend a productive one year."

More about Zara
Why NTU?
Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Youth?
"I chose my career path at the age of 25 whilst working within the Prison Service and got the opportunity to work with high-risk young offenders aged 18 to 21. This started my journey within the Youth Work and Youth Justice field as I developed a passion for working with challenging and vulnerable young people who just needed a chance to better their lives.

After completing my degree in Criminal Justice Practice, I worked in a variety of different settings before deciding that I would like to further my education by going back to University. I wanted to pursue a Masters degree in order to provide me with more knowledge and skills as well as open up more opportunities in the future."

Why did you choose to study MA Youth Work Leadership and Practice at NTU?
"I chose my course at NTU after attending an Open Day to not only get a feel of the atmosphere and environment at the University itself but I also had the opportunity to speak with my now Course Leader. He provided me with more knowledge about the course and the module content which sparked my interest. He also gave me the confidence that I would be supported alongside my studies."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?
"So far, my experience of the course has been extremely positive and I am thoroughly enjoying my studies.

I have had the opportunity to meet some amazing people from all walks of life on my course and have already made connections through networking. It has been an incredible journey to connect with people who all share the share passion of wanting to support young people in different ways so they are able to thrive and reach their full potential."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?
"Social Sciences is about being able to support the vulnerable and at risk. It's about challenging young people we work with in a variety of ways to cater to their needs by being able to help transform their lives with a positive impact.

We are there to show them that for practitioners within this field, it's more than just a job role. Instead, we are passionate, determined and care about their well-being. We want to help provide them with prospects for the future so they are able to independently and confidently succeed through life."

On Placement
Have you completed any work placements on your course?
"I am completing work placement