Ellie
Jacobson

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

When I attended the NTU Open Day and listened to the Creative Writing course talk, I was told about the writing opportunities students have been given at NTU. Writing has also been my passion and hearing that the course’s focus was on shaping and developing our writing and having the option to write in a wide range of genres was very appealing.

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

On my course there is the option to undertake a semester abroad or to study another language. I found NTU’s global community very impressive when I visited the university and the number of locations available to students to study abroad.

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

The staff always offer their full support to students throughout the course. The course lecturers notify us of any opportunities available to students such as writing competitions, poetry readings/open mics or volunteering opportunities. We are also given the opportunity to share our work with peers, which although feels daunting at first, enables us as writers to hone our craft and develop our writing.

What topics / projects have you really felt engaged with?

One of the second-year modules gave us the opportunity to create a zine. As a team we chose the theme, the design of the magazine and we learnt to write a call for submissions. From this module, I gained skills which are transferrable to a work place environment and was able to find zines all over the world that my work has been published in.

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

My greatest achievement at NTU has been becoming a member of Nottingham UNESCO City of Literature’s Youth Advisory Board. From this role, I have been able to contribute to NUCoL’s work helping young people in Nottingham develop a love of literature. I have also been able to become more engaged in the literary and arts community in Nottingham.

In a nutshell, why would you recommend your course / NTU to prospective students?

This course is perfect for keen writers who want the time to develop their writing and experiment with a wide range of writing forms. The course will also encourage you to share your work with the world which could lead to performing at Book Readings, Open Mics or even getting your work published.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your course or your experiences at NTU? Do you have any advice for students considering coming to NTU?

As a final year student, the past three years have flown by, and so my advice to prospective students is to make the most of your time here and join in with as many opportunities as possible. There is always something going on at NTU or the Student Union so make sure to make memories with your course mates and friends.