Phoebe
Grzeskowiak

Why did you choose to study your course at NTU?

NTU provided me with a safe learning environment where I could grow academically and socially. As well as this, the campus and facilities are perfect for the course! I also wanted to explore a new city and meet new people who shared similar interests to me.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

I enjoy the outdoor practical’s the most and the opportunities provided on field trips. In December 2022 I was lucky enough to spend two weeks in South Africa with my course undertaking surveys and learning about conservation methods.

The course is quite small in size so it's like one big Conservation family where we can all help each other out with academic work as well as in practicals.

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

I find my modules extremely interesting as they all involve different content and they open your eyes to the world of conservation.

One of my favourites was the Behavioural and Evolutionary Ecology module as we got to undertake a behavioural survey on Barbary Macaques. The Conservation Ecology module is really interesting too as it looks at marine as well as terrestrial ecology.

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

The facilities available at NTU are easily accessible and very up-to-date. I use the library most often for studying and help with academic work. I also use the study spaces which are allocated around campus to study with friends and socialise.

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

Brackenhurst Campus is like a home away from home, I have met so many people here who I will always stay in contact with. It's only one bus ride away from the city, so you have the opportunity to socialise as well as get some peace and quiet!

In my spare time, I was a member of the Brackenhurst Netball team and the Pole Society where I met many of my current friends, and of course, you can’t say you have been to Brackenhurst without having a drink in the Brack Bar!

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

My top tip would be to join societies where you can meet others like yourself and make friends. Also, get involved with any opportunities which are offered to you to make the most of your uni experience... and maybe bring a pair of wellies!

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?

I undertook a placement year during the third year of my course and had the amazing opportunity of travelling to Honduras as a Research Assistant at the Cusuco National Park and seeing a range of amazing species such as hummingbirds and snakes.

As well as this, for two months I undertook an independent study on the Calf of Man (a small island just off the Isle of Man), researching the impacts of brown rats on ground nesting bird species. This data is now being used by the Manx Wildlife Trust.

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

There are so many reasons why you should study this course: the lecturers are supportive and explain the content in a fun and interesting way, the facilities are always available and easy to access, the field trips and opportunities on the course are astonishing and the people you meet and the memories you make are irreplaceable.

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

Studying this course has given me the opportunity to work in a range of different fields, as well as a range of different countries. After I have graduated, I want to travel and work on different ecological projects around the world, specialising mainly in avian conservation.

Any additional comments?

I have had the best four years at Brackenhurst Campus, meeting some of the best people and having the best experiences. I would highly recommend NTU to anyone looking to further their education as it is a university like no other. I will always cherish the time I have had here at NTU.