Bee
Leighton

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I first visited NTU on an open day I fell in love with the campus and the city, and specifically the Arkwright Studios that house the architecture department. I talked with the tutors and the more I walked around, the more I felt at home. I chose to study architecture as I had a strong interest for design from a young age. Additionally, climate change threatens ours and future generations and a way I thought I could combat this was to study to become an architect to design sustainable buildings.

What is the best thing about your course?

The sense of community! At NTU all BArch students share one large studio which means that all years get to know each other and collaborate on ideas. As a first year I talked to many second and third years who gave really useful advice on all aspects of university. The studio becomes like a second home and students like a second family.

Have you been involved in any live projects or exciting briefs? What has stood out to you?

My favourite project so far was in second year where we had a live brief to design a skatepark for a local skatepark in Nottingham. This project was a step-up from first year and it gave me a chance to explore my design and representation style. Once the project was complete, a selection of our years’ work was exhibited in the current local skatepark which we found exciting to be connecting with the community.

What marks out of 10 would you give for course facilities and why?

10! Not only are the facilities incredible, the staff are so helpful. I especially am grateful to the technicians in workshop for always helping and coming up with ideas to make our projects a reality through models.

Does the “real” NTU match what you’d imagined? How does it compare with your friends experience at other universities?

I had no idea what to expect from university as I was told so many different things before I went. However, NTU has exceeded any expectations I had. I truly have had the best few years and, despite not living in halls in first year, I have had the most amazing experience. When talking to friends at other universities I have found that their experience varies on what they have put into their university life. Joining a society and getting more involved in university life gives students more opportunities to make friends and memories.

What do you think makes NTU a top university?

The student support at NTU is outstanding. Any issues with any aspects of university that I have had, have been solved quickly and efficiently. Knowing that there are many great support teams at NTU to help during my education is very reassuring should I have any issues.