Alec
Lawrie

Why NTU…

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I chose NTU and my course as it promoted how important a year out in industry can be. The lecturers and employability team provide multiple services to help you improve your skills including CV writing and interview prep.

What do you think about the course staff? How do they support your learning and university experience?

Some of the lectures show how passionate they are about there topics which makes you as a student also interested. It’s a small course so some lectures make an effort on getting to know you.

How would you promote NTU to potential students in 10 words  or fewer?

Nottingham is a modern university which promotes valuable industry experience

Placements

Could you please explain more about your current / recent placement, and what you did during this time?

I spent a year out at Colliers in there building consultancy department. The year in industry gave me valuable experience in Pre-Acquistion and Vendor surveys, Dilapidations and Condition surveys. I assisted with project management as well which involved contract administration. This varied work allowed me to understand the roles of a surveyor which lectures miss.

How did you source your placement? Did you get support from NTU?

I used InPlace with great help from the employability team.

What is your favourite project that you’ve worked on during your placement and why?

My favourite project was the Pre acquisition portfolio of supermarkets across the UK. Allowed me to travel and stay in places like the Lakes and Wales.

What skills have you gained by completing this placement?

My placement allowed me to improve on client relationships. Learnt modern realistic surveying techniques.

How will these skills enhance your employability for your chosen career?

Having a year out in industry on your CV stands out over those who didn’t.

What advice would you give to an NTU student about to begin a placement?

Throw yourself into it.

About the future...

What’s next for you after NTU?

I will be graduating and travelling before going back to Colliers.