Laura
Clancy

What made you choose to study at NTU?  

“I looked all over the country for courses that seemed to cater to what I really wanted out of my English course, and when I came across NTU I knew it suited me completely. I could learn a wide range of skills from my field, then specialise on what I love in third year. I wanted to learn a range of skills across multiple modules, all really different, so I would potentially be more ‘employable’ whilst studying what I love throughout my course.”

What did you enjoy most about your course?

The variety of texts and books studied- I’m an avid reader so I was thrilled.

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?

“All your module leaders and seminar tutors are amazing and will offer you the advice and support you need, but especially first year I really felt that having a personal tutor really put me at ease, knowing I had someone there should I need the help who might actually know what’s going on!”

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

“From my experience, NTU has pushed me to be the best I can be. Before University I wouldn’t dare get on a stage to talk or perform. Now I’ve read my own creative work aloud to English professionals, performed on stage with my society, and been on team Penguin at a local literary event.”

Have you completed any work placements and if so can you tell me a little bit about them – where you went and what you did?

“I have recently been a team member and helper for the day at Penguin Random House’s #WriteNow 2018 East Midlands event, where 150 people were chosen from 17,000 applicants to spend the day with Penguin officials, including published authors, renowned illustrators, creative directors, literary agents, editors, designers, and PRs. I spent the day assisting visitors and getting to know various writers, asking questions and learning so much about the journey getting your work published. I sat in on several workshops, detailing the importance of an agent, ways to impress an editor and publishers, and how to be confident in yourself and the work you produce. I feel so lucky to have been selected to be a part of such an insightful and inspirational day- full of details and diversity.”

How will your course and/or placement enhance your employability for your chosen career? What skills have you gained?

“My own personal achievements from my course, such as publicizing and co-creating a student magazine for one of my modules, then reading my poetry to literary professionals, have already shaped me massively as a person- proving confidence and professionalism are not an issue in the slightest. My experience working with Penguin Random House UK at the #writenow event have added that extra ‘oomph’ to my CV, providing my future work prospects with the knowledge that I have already worked with a tremendously successful company.”

What are your plans for the future?

“I hope to finish my degree and continue to complete a Masters in creative writing, meanwhile entering as many local writing competitions as possible. One day I’d love to have a series of short story selections published.”