Naomi
Allen

Why did you choose to study at NTU?

I chose to study at NTU because I was drawn to its beautiful rural campus and the structure of the Animal Biology course. NTU offered me the ideal path to achieve my academic goals, allowing me to start with the FdSc Animal Science course, which I studied for two years, and then top up with an additional year to earn a full BSc in Animal Biology. This flexible route made it the perfect choice for me.

What did you learn – both inside and outside of lectures?

During my time studying Animal Biology at NTU, I gained a deep understanding of the principles of animal science, including physiology, ecology, and behaviour. I developed strong research and analytical skills through coursework and independent study, learning to collect and interpret data with precision. The practical components of the course allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, further enhancing my critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Outside of lectures, I honed valuable transferable skills, such as teamwork, time management, and adaptability. Engaging with the university community helped me build confidence and resilience while balancing my studies with personal responsibilities taught me how to prioritise effectively and stay organised. I also learned how to manage my anxiety, made lifelong friends, and built an amazing support group that helped me navigate the pressures of life. These experiences taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of a strong support network, preparing me for both personal and professional challenges.

What have you been up to since graduating? 

After graduating, I struggled to find a career that truly interested me and faced challenges with job applications. Recognising the need to improve my employability, I decided to return to university and pursue a new career path—one I hoped would be both successful and enjoyable.

After some hurried research, I chose the MSc Marketing and Brand Management course at NTU. Despite the course having already started, NTU was incredibly supportive, helping me, as an alumna, secure a place and join the program I wanted. This experience reminded me that it’s never too late to make a big decision, and it turned out to be the best one I’ve made!

The course is fantastic—extremely career-focused and designed to prepare students for the professional world. I’m learning all the essentials of marketing and branding, and I already feel much more equipped to take on the challenges of the working world.

What does your current day involve?

My current day involves a mix of attending university lectures and workshops, working on coursework, and applying for placement or graduate opportunities to gain practical marketing experience.

I usually start my day by travelling from Birmingham to NTU, where I focus on developing my skills in areas like branding strategy, consumer behaviour, and digital marketing. Outside of class, I conduct research, complete assignments, and collaborate with classmates on group projects.

In addition to my academic responsibilities, I work as a Marketing Assistant for my family business, writing social media posts and creating promotional content. Balancing these activities keeps me productive and focused on achieving my future aspirations.

What attracted you to this field?

I was drawn to marketing because it offers a perfect balance of creativity, strategy, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact. I’ve always enjoyed problem-solving and finding ways to connect with people, and marketing allows me to combine those skills to shape how brands engage with their audiences.

My interests in animals and cars have also influenced my decision, as I’m particularly inspired by the chance to work in industries where I can combine personal passions with professional expertise to create meaningful campaigns.

What I find most exciting about marketing is its constantly evolving nature. With new trends and technologies emerging all the time, there are endless opportunities to innovate and grow. It’s this dynamic environment and the ability to see the results of your work that make marketing such a rewarding field for me.

What have been the highlights and biggest challenges of your journey so far?

The biggest highlight of my journey so far has been learning more about myself and building confidence in my abilities. I’ve grown to trust my decision-making, and I feel much more assured in my ability to succeed. Every experience has taught me more about my skills and potential, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to see how far I’ve come in developing both personally and professionally.

My biggest challenge was taking the leap to start a master’s program—something I hadn’t initially planned to pursue. Change can be daunting, and my naturally indecisive nature made this step even more challenging. However, I now feel more confident than ever that I’m on the right path. This decision has allowed me to discover a field I truly connect with, and I’m excited to continue growing and building on this foundation.

What are your plans for the future?

In the future, I hope to build a fulfilling career in marketing, working in roles that combine my interests with my professional skills. I’m especially interested in industries like automotive or pet care, where I can bring together my passions and even draw on my background in animal biology.

I’d love to work my way up to a senior position, taking on more responsibility and being part of projects that make a real impact. Having the chance to travel with my job would be a bonus, as I think experiencing different cultures and perspectives would be exciting and inspiring.

Outside of work, I hope to explore the world, try new hobbies, and really make the most of everything life has to offer. For me, it’s all about finding a balance between a career I love and a life full of new adventures and personal growth.

If you had a time machine, what would you go back and tell yourself at NTU?

If I had a time machine, I’d go back and tell myself at NTU to trust the process and stop doubting my abilities so much. I’d remind myself that growth comes from stepping out of my comfort zone and that the challenges I faced were building the resilience and skills I’d need for the future.

I’d also encourage myself to embrace opportunities more boldly, whether it was trying new things, networking, or taking on leadership roles. Looking back, I’d tell myself that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away—each step I’ve taken has brought me closer to finding a path I’m genuinely passionate about.

Finally, I’d tell myself to take a moment to appreciate the experience, the people, and the progress I was making. Those years were a big part of shaping who I am today, and I’d want to make sure I didn’t miss the chance to enjoy the journey.

Finally, is there anything else you’d like to share with our student and alumni community?

I’d like to share with the student and alumni community that the journey to discovering your true potential isn’t always linear, and that’s okay. Whether you’re still figuring things out or already on a defined path, it’s important to embrace every experience, even the setbacks, because they all contribute to your growth.

Take the time to explore your passions, try new things, and build connections along the way. And don’t be afraid to take risks or make changes when something doesn’t feel right—it’s all part of the learning process.

Lastly, remember that the value of community and collaboration cannot be overstated. The relationships you build, both personally and professionally, will be some of the most valuable assets in your journey. Stay open to learning from others and always be ready to offer your own experiences and insights.