Natasha
Ahmed

Why did you choose to study your course at NTU?

I chose to study at NTU due to its renowned reputation and for the facilities on Brackenhurst Campus. Being able to experience a working farm gives me hands on, practical insight into the food industry and allows me to best apply my learning in real-life situations.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

I enjoy meeting the other students on my course – the course is all apprentices, and so you get to meet like-minded individuals with a plethora of experiences and knowledge from every part of the food industry. The class is very diverse and it is refreshing to learn in such a positive, welcoming environment.

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

My modules can be challenging but it is very rewarding studying and being able to understand and appreciate all that goes on in the food industry. My favourite module is food raw materials, which creates brilliant conversations about the produce we use, sustainability, business and the impact food can have. From testing apple varieties to discussing regenerative farming, I find it has a little bit of everything!

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

I personally use the online library to aid most of my studies, as it provides me with a wealth of resources that I can access from anywhere. There is also lots of support from the library team who helped me to learn to reference and improve my academic writing skills.

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

The campus is a gorgeous location, and I spend lunch breaks in the walled garden with my friends. After lectures we like to walk around the site, often stopping to see the horses and donkeys which are so cute!

What is your top tip for someone considering studying/ living at Brackenhurst Campus?

Bring practical, warm clothes and take your time getting to know the campus – it can feel daunting but has so many beautiful spots that are perfect for relaxing!

Have you been involved in any placements, work experience or volunteering as part of your course? If so, what did you do and what did you achieve?

My apprenticeship means I get to spend time working in the food industry, preparing for when I have my degree and want to go for higher roles. This industry experience is so valuable as it gives you insight and helps to apply your university knowledge into real life contexts. I work as an apprentice chocolate research and development technologist and spend my time outside of university helping to improve and produce chocolate for Cadbury (Mondelez International) at their Bournville site.

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

Doing a degree apprenticeship allows you to get the best of both worlds – you get to have a full university degree, whilst also gaining invaluable industry experience and insight that employers look for. You also get paid and don’t have student loans, allowing you to not worry about finance and fully enjoy your degree!

What are your plans for after the course and how do you feel your course has/ will help you to achieve that goal?

I plan on finishing my degree and continuing to work in Food Research and Development, but specifically I would love to work on new product development or process development. I would also like to branch out further into industry, trying other food sectors such as bakery goods if I can.