Joe
Howarth

Why NTU…

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I selected NTU as I wanted to do Quantity surveying and commercial management, and this was one of the only universities that offered the course. Lots of other universities only offered Quantity surveying on its own whereas I wanted an understanding of both.

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

Lots of the course staff are very helpful, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable on their subject. I particularly found some of the guest lectures useful to speak to as they usually have industry insights, they can share which help link theory with the real world.

Have you been involved in any live projects of briefs on your course and if so, can you talk a bit about one you really enjoyed?

In our final year we are involved with a live project which our group work is based on. This year was a project on a school, we had a site visit with Morgan Sindall where they walked us round the project talking us through the details, they also provided us with a few talks and classroom sessions with them to help us better understand the project, I found this useful as we were able to ask questions as to how they won the job in the firs place along with how they are managing the site as the school is still operational.

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

I think NTU benefits from being in the city centre which allows students to be close to transport links, local businesses, shops and the nightlife. Having all facilities close together makes it easy to plan your day and reduce the amount of travel you have to do as everything is in walking distance.

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

Positive friendly environment in the heart of the city.

On Placement…

Have you completed any work placements on your course? If so, tell us about your experience – where did you go, what did you do, what skills have you gained and what have you enjoyed the most?

I worked for VolkerFitzpatrick on Gosforth Depot in Newcastle where I was site-based Quantity surveyor. I have gained so much from doing this placement, it has taught me everything from contract administration, negotiation skills, time management, dealing with payments, keeping to programmes and cost reporting. I could not recommend this experience more; I was able to continue my personal development by attending training courses along with the constant support from my mentor and other onsite staff.

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

Yes, the company I ended up working for (VolkerFitzpatrick) held a guest lecture for my course, in which they talked about the placement experience they provided. I then applied and interviewed for the position.

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

I only worked on one project which was Gosforth Depot. This project was perfect for me as I have an interest in infrastructure development and this project exposed me to working with many different contractors ranging from rail, earthworks, building and demolition which has benefited me greatly going into my final year as I now have an awareness as what the role of a QS entails but also how the role differs depending on what you are responsible for on a specific project.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre…

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?

Yes ! this was one of my favourite things to do. I came to Nottingham knowing no one, this year I will be leaving with friends for life. There are hundreds of societies/clubs/events which are aimed at bringing people with similar interests together. Take advantage of this and put yourself out there and you will make friends easily.

The Next Steps…

What’s next for you after NTU?

I hope to stay working with VolkerFitzpatrick after NTU and work towards chartership with RICS.

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

NTU have provided a course which is accredited by RICS which is the charted institute for my chosen profession (QS).

Advice...

What top tips would you give anyone thinking about studying your course at NTU?

Make sure you apply for a job early to make sure you have options when you graduate, also consider a placement as they help you drastically during your final year.