Katherine
Ward

What made you choose to study Fashion Management at NTU?
"I knew I wanted to work in the fashion industry although I wasn’t blessed with the artistic flare needed to be a designer. I knew it was important for me to have a placement year during my degree which led me to stumble across Fashion Management at NTU. Choosing to study Fashion Management was the best decision I could have made because I’ve had the opportunity to discover a large range of opportunities and found a love for merchandising."

Tell us about any guest speakers who have visited the course?
"There’s been so many guest lectures which are really interesting. One lecture that stands out was given by Phil Clarke from the Hive (NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise) who spoke to us about fund-raising strategies. Around the time of placement applications the River Island, Debenhams, George and ASOS recruitment teams visited and spoke about what they look for in an application which was really great."

What do you think about the course staff?
"The lecturers on the course all have great real life experience to apply to the theories we learn, which is also helpful when trying to work out what career you want to pursue. I’ve always felt completely supported throughout my university experience on an academic and personal level. University can be a daunting experience and having tutors that you feel happy opening up to is so important."

Where did you complete your year-long work placement?
"I worked at Debenhams as an assistant merchandiser in the international division. My role involved range building for international stores based on what the UK teams had developed. Each market Debenhams trade in is very different and therefore the selection of stock for each store could vary massively. I was also responsible for running weekly allocation reports, ensuring intake and dispatch ran smoothly, and reacting to changing sales forecasts throughout the season.

"I fully believe that the placement year is the most valuable experience I could have had as it has allowed me to secure a job with Debenhams for after I graduate."

What's the best thing about being a student in Nottingham?
"I absolutely love studying in Nottingham. It’s everything a city could have to offer but in a relatively small area. You don't need to get public transport anywhere because the City Campus is five minutes walk from the city centre. There is a dangerously good shopping scene so bring your will power, although the tutors do encourage us to use shopping as research!