Comfort
Akinwole

What made you choose to study at NTU?

“I chose to study at NTU because they offered a course that combined both of my interests – which not many universities offered. The course was perfect for me as I wasn’t sure which subject area I preferred.”

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

“Well the first key feature that attracted me was the English section of the course, as the website described how I would get to explore important transformations that have taken place in the way texts are written and read, as well as exploring writers such as Irving Washington, Shakespeare and Walt Whitman. Looking at the media side of the course, I was very excited to not only create and edit my own videos, but to use the editing software packages and learn how to use them from professionals.”

What do you enjoy most about your course?

“Right now, I’m enjoying the variety of reading the course has introduced me to, especially in my Literature and Psychoanalysis module, and I like how easy going the pace is. I don’t feel overwhelmed or stressed out because I understand and love what I’m studying.”

Has the course included any live projects and if so can you talk a little bit about one you really enjoyed?

“For one of my media modules I created a video about student accommodation, for prospective first year students. When I was researching and looking at videos made by others, I realised that they were all aimed at UK students, so I made mine for international students. The reason why I enjoyed it so much, was because I had the opportunity to tailor the content to a specific target audience and address a topic close to my heart. The project allowed me to be creative and address topics that I originally would not have thought about.”

Has the course included any study trips or guest speakers?

“The course includes an optional study abroad semester. In terms of guest speakers, I have enjoyed the talks from alumni. They explain how they got to where they are and provide tips and advice from their own life journey.”

What do you think about the course staff – include lecturers, tutors, administrators and technical staff within this. How do they support your learning and University experience?

“I think the course staff are supportive and encouraging. I like how they emphasise and encourage students to be original and creative in their approach to assignments. I personally really enjoy the seminars/scale ups, as they are more intimate and I feel like I come out understanding more on a specific topic. Lectures are equally important, and I like how some of the lecturers encourage students to get involved. I once had a lecturer walk around the entire lecture room whilst teaching. I remember most students turning in their seats to keep track of where he was. He had our attention from beginning to end. In addition, I like how the lecturers take the time to discuss your essay ideas. I always come out feeling more focused and encouraged at the end of the conversation.”

What do you think about the facilities available to you?

“The media labs are one of my happy places on Campus. It’s a room filled with Mac computers, where I edit my videos. I also really enjoy spending my free time in the Pavilion. I find myself able to get a lot of work done.”

What do you like about studying and living in Nottingham?

“What I love most about Nottingham is the ethnic diversity. I’ve made so many lifelong friends from different backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities from me. And I am never bored in Nottingham there are so many activities to do like ice-skating.”

Why would you recommend your course / NTU to someone looking to study in that area?

“I would recommend the course because NTU has helped me develop so much confidence in myself and I’ve seen myself grow and develop a variety of important life skills and if NTU can do this for me, I’m sure it can definitely do the same for anyone.”

Have you completed any work placements and if so can you tell me a little bit about them – where you went, what you did, and any skills you’ve gained that will help you when you graduate?

“I completed my placement in Nottingham; I recorded and edited videos for a dance company. I also got involved and wrote a blog for the company website. From this placement I gained a variety of life skills that will help me when I graduate, such as time management, good interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.”

How will your course enhance your employability for your chosen career?

“Well for starters, I’ll need my BA in order to go on and complete my masters and PhD in English. So I guess this course is laying the foundations for me.”

What has been your greatest achievement at NTU so far?

“I think my greatest achievement at NTU so far, has been being chosen to be an employability champion, a student mentor and a student ambassador.”

What are your plans for the future?

“I’m hoping to complete my Masters and PhD in English, as I would like to become an English Lecturer in the future.”