Briony
HIll

Why did you choose NTU and your course?  

I chose my course because I had worked with horses for five years but wanted to learn something different and still work with animals. I wasn’t originally going to go to university, as I wanted to go into the equine sector. However, after working with horses for a few months, I knew it wasn’t for me as it became a chore and not a hobby anymore. Nottingham Trent University was my first choice of university to look at when I was in Clearing as I would still be close to my horses, but it meant I could finally have some independence too.

How did you find the process of applying to NTU through Clearing? 

I never intended on going to university, so I didn’t have a UCAS profile. However, the day I got my college results I decided to set up a profile, which was quite a long process. I had to get references from my old teachers and I almost missed the Clearing deadline. I also needed to arrange accommodation and find a job close to me which took a while. However, finding accommodation was easy. I did run into issues with student finance because I needed my references before applying for my course. I had to leave it till the very last minute which delayed me getting my money until later on. I had to pay out of pocket for a lot of my accommodation fees at the start of the year which set me back financially a lot. It did get better though once my money came through from student finance and my new job.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of applying to NTU through Clearing?   

Don’t apply to university just because all of your friends are doing it. Apply because you are doing it for a purpose. If you don’t have a good reason, take a gap year and think about what you want to accomplish and apply for the year after. You aren’t in a rush. But if you are doing it for a reason keep calm and it will all be ok. You don’t need to stress about it all.

How do you find your modules and what have you most enjoyed studying?

All of my modules have been really good. I have learnt so much in my first year and it was all a bit overwhelming at first, but I managed to get through it all. I have enjoyed pathogen biology the most and I find using microscopes fascinating.

What do you think about the facilities available on your course and what do you use the most?

We had an amazing animal room where you can go and cuddle cats in your spare time. We handled a variety of animals for our exams and learned how to look after them.

What do you think about Brackenhurst Campus? What do you get up to in your spare time?

I use the Orangery to sit down, have a coffee and revise during my free time.

Why would you recommend your course to someone considering studying it? 

All of the course content is amazing, with all of the teachers being very helpful. Working with a variety of animals is one of the best parts of the course in my opinion.