Talane
Bowne

Why did you choose to study your course at NTU?

There were three main things that drew me to NTU. The first was the fact that a research path for the masters was offered allowing for a large focus of my studies to be on the project portion of the degree. The second factor was being able to pick my elective course for the MRes which helps to tailor the program for my goals and in my case, I chose conservation genetics. The last draw was being from the USA I was excited to get the chance to study in a place I had never been.

What made your mind up about studying a PG course at Brackenhurst Campus?

Overall my answers are similar to why I chose NTU in general. However the animal unit being on campus is a huge plus, even before getting to the UK I loved the idea that I could walk across campus and visit a variety of animals. Coming from a rural area as well I loved the fact that an environmental centric course was being taught in the countryside and close to nature.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

The encouragement I have had in developing my project and the support I have received in making sure I can get the most out of this year. Both our course leader and my project supervisor have been very supportive and involved in ensuring this is a positive experience. The school as a whole has more supportive resources than I’ve ever personally seen in my academic career.

How do you find your modules and what have you most enjoyed studying/researching? Please tell us about any research you have been involved with during your time as a postgraduate student.

It has been so helpful working with my project supervisor to create my research project. Prior to coming to NTU I had not had experience in trying to design a project from the ground up. Through this process I have gotten to come up with research questions, create a proposal, fill out an ethics form and do a risk assessment. All of this possible with the guidance and help from my supervisor letting me know what is realistic and how to navigate the forms. I also know I still will have more to experience such as potentially applying for funding and then actually going through with the project. The program allows for me to do all the steps but with someone guiding me through the process, which is so definitely needed and helpful.

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

The facilities available are nice in that there is much available on campus but also that you have access to the whole of NTU’s resources. So, while there is a lab on Brackenhurst’s campus, if they don’t have what you need there is still Clifton campus’ facilities. The instructors are always there to support you and, if they can, make sure top provide you with the resources or information you need. There are so many wellbeing resources, more than I am ever used to seeing from a university, available at Brack and university wide. Overall, there is a lot of support and resources offered whenever you need it.

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

I am at the Orangery that even during term one, one of the regular and wonderful baristas knew my coffee order by sight. The Refectory is a blessing, always because the workers are so sweet, but especially when you only have energy for schoolwork and need to not have to cook for yourself. The student union shop has all the staples when you need a few things to get you through between grocery trips. The Brack bar is so nice and cozy to have a safe place for a drink after lectures, especially if you live on campus. Also, the animal unit, that is a huge draw for me, I love in between lectures or as a break when working on coursework to walk to the animal unit and pet the cats, if the cats are in the mood of course and observe the many other creatures in the facility. The workers are so kind and love to share their knowledge of all the critters they care for. By visiting the animal unit its such a nice reminder of what you’re working towards.

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

Familiarize yourself with the public transportation options, if you are not from an area that has many public transportation options try to familiarize yourself before you have to find your way. The 26 bus that stops right at campus is wonderful, the drivers are amazing and is a direct line from campus to Notts city centre. Sturdy, supportive and weather resistant foot ware will go a long way so that you can enjoy wandering the campus and the surrounding areas. Pack for layering. Weather is weather, preparing for fluctuations in temperature and random precipitation will set you up for success. Get into group chats with your classmates and flatmates, if you’re an international student don’t be afraid to ask about places to visit while you’re here. You don’t want to miss out on seeing something cool because you were afraid to be a tourist.

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

The staff here is so lovely and works to create a familiar, comfortable environment for you to succeed. The campus is a cosy place where you can visit animals consistently when you need a little pick me up during the day. Particularly when doing an MRes you can dedicate time to putting a lot into your project from start to finish but with the experienced guidance of your supervisor. Overall is a very cozy program for a kind of specific but multi-disciplinary degree. There is the opportunity to explore several types of science but for the same goal allowing you flexibility to find your passion in the general scope of endangered species conservation.

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

Ultimately I am hoping that the hands on experience from this course will allow me to eventually do a PhD. Even if that does not occur immediately after, I hope to obtain a job in a related field gaining even more hands on work in the field of conservation. This is a career change for me, I am coming from working in medicine for several years so obtaining practical experience I can translate into a career has been my ultimate goal and I feel good about this course providing me with valuable exposure to much needed skills to achieve my future goals.

Any additional comments?

The peace of the campus is wonderful. Feeling not so removed from nature while studying nature is a desirable aspect of living and studying on this campus. It is easy access to urban areas and an easy walking distance into town but there is quiet and access to nature which is lovely for reminding you what you’re working towards.