Asma
Lakdawala

Third year Journalism student, Asma Lakdawala speaks to us about what stands out on her course, her favourite projects she's worked on so far, and how she's found Nottingham as a student city.

What were the key features that attracted you to your course and NTU?

I was attracted to the fact that the Journalism course was NCTJ accredited which meant that I was going to be industry trained. I also enjoyed the idea that we would have the opportunity to work with professionals such as guest lecturers and guests who are from respected news outlets. We also have the chance to choose specific modules that interest us to help us gain a rough idea of which route of journalism we want to go down in the future.

Is there anything about your course that stood out to you, perhaps that wasn’t offered anywhere else you applied?

The NCTJ as most universities don't have it. If you take it now you don't have to do it later and pay for it. It sets you apart from the rest when employers pick trainee journalists.

What would you describe as the real strengths of your course?

Definitely the staff. We are a small group but the lecturers took the time to get to know us all and our names, I feel like we have a very close relationship with them because of how well they have taught us and given us amazing feedback for each and every module. They always make time for us whenever we have any queries and push us to be at our very best as young, trainee journalists. They offer us specialist training from their own industry experience and use their connections by bringing in Industry guests which help progress our learning.

What topics / projects have you really felt engaged with?

Newsweeks were my favourite part of the course. We do them in second and third year where we create a magazine and newspaper. I had the opportunity to be News Editor for one of the weeks and was supported by many industry guests from places like the Nottingham Post, Yorkshire Post and Sky news. I enjoyed the atmosphere and how we were working as real journalists in practice which helped me gain an understanding of how it's going to be in the future.

What has been your greatest achievement as a Nottingham Trent University student?

My greatest achievement has been how I have developed my newsgathering skills. The course has helped me learn how to talk to people and improved my social skills. I feel as if the course has shaped me into becoming a better journalist.

The course has led me to be able to apply for placements such as The Sunday Times and Nottinghamshire Live because of the skills I have learnt.

In a nutshell, why would you recommend Journalism at NTU to prospective students?

I would recommend Journalism because of the connections you gain throughout your time here. If you make a great impression with some of the industry professionals, they may be able to offer you work placements which will look great on your CV.

Journalism is a great course that I recommend to anyone who loves writing. You have the opportunity to write for the student magazine and website and it's also student-led.

The modules are also really interesting and allows you to use your creativity by applying them practically through a portfolio where you can demonstrate your skills by applying them in practice.

What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

Alternative, friendly and engaging.

How have you found Nottingham as a student city?

It's a great city because it has so many attractions for everyone. There's something for everyone and it makes you feel included.

They have a great selection of bars, restaurants and activities that have different themes across the city. They're also student friendly and have affordable prices.

Did you find it easy to make friends at NTU?

I was very shy at first, I came from a small town in Warwickshire where everyone knew everyone so it was kind of a shock to me. I met my first friend in the Journalism course where we ended up living together. I think it's important to sign up to societies or engage with your course as you spend the most time with them. It can be daunting but it's about making that first step.

What do you think of the support available at NTU?

NTU have a great amount of resources that are easily accessible on their website.

What’s next for you after NTU?

I'm hoping to apply for graduate schemes in national/regional newspapers that train me to become a professional reporter.