Polina
Dovhal

Why NTU…

What inspired you to study your subject?

I chose NTU because I wanted a university that combined strong academic foundations with a genuinely supportive learning environment. English Language and Linguistics has always fascinated me — not just as a subject, but as a tool for connection, identity, and opportunity. My long-term dream is to open an online English school, so studying this course felt like the perfect way to deepen my understanding of language while gaining the skills to teach it confidently and professionally.

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

The course at NTU stood out because it blends theoretical linguistics with real-world application. I didn’t want a degree that was purely abstract; I wanted something that would prepare me for teaching, communication, and working with people. NTU’s reputation for student support, its modern campus, and the welcoming atmosphere made the decision easy.

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights?

My experience has been incredibly enriching. The modules are varied and intellectually stimulating — from phonetics and syntax to sociolinguistics and language acquisition. A major highlight has been discovering how much I enjoy analysing real language data and understanding how people actually use language in everyday life. The lecturers are passionate, and their enthusiasm makes even the most complex topics engaging.

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?

Yes — one of the most rewarding experiences has been helping at NTU Open Days and subject-specific events such as Language Days. During these events, school pupils and sixth-form students visit the university to explore English Language and Linguistics, and I support lecturers by helping to run activities, guide groups, and answer questions about the course.

Being involved in these events has strengthened my communication skills and given me a chance to share my enthusiasm for linguistics with younger learners. It also helped me understand how academic knowledge can be made accessible and engaging — something that aligns perfectly with my long-term goal of opening an online English school.

These experiences have made me feel more connected to the NTU community and more confident in my ability to work in educational settings.

What does Social Sciences mean to you? e.g. working with people, transforming lives, frontline services

To me, Social Sciences is about understanding people — how they think, communicate, and interact with the world. It’s about transforming lives through knowledge, empathy, and practical skills. Studying language is a way of understanding society itself, because language shapes identity, culture, and opportunity.

On Placement…

Have you completed any work placements on your course? If so, tell us about your experience – where did you go, what did you do, what skills have you gained and what have you enjoyed the most?

I haven’t completed a formal placement yet, but the course has already given me practical experience through workshops, teaching-related tasks, and applied linguistic projects

Support...

What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?

The support at NTU is exceptional. Tutors are approachable, genuinely invested in students’ success, and always willing to offer guidance or detailed feedback. What stands out most is how deeply they care about their subjects — they don’t just teach linguistics, they live it. Their passion is obvious in every lecture, seminar, and conversation, and it creates an environment where you feel inspired to push yourself academically.

Whether I’ve needed academic advice, help planning my career, or simply reassurance during a challenging week, I’ve always felt listened to, supported, and encouraged.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre…

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?

Yes — the community at NTU is incredibly welcoming. As an international student, I was nervous at first, but I quickly found friends through my course, societies, and everyday campus life. The environment feels inclusive and friendly, and there are so many opportunities to meet people who share your interests or background.

One thing that helped me settle in especially well was joining the Ukrainian Society. NTU has a wide range of societies based on culture, hobbies, and academic interests, and being part of a community connected to my home country made a huge difference. It gave me a sense of belonging, helped me build friendships quickly, and made the transition to studying in a new country much easier.

The Next Steps…

What’s next for you after NTU?

My goal is to open my own online English school and continue developing as a linguist and educator. I want to combine my academic knowledge with practical teaching experience to create accessible, high-quality language education for learners around the world.

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

NTU is giving me the theoretical foundation, teaching skills, and professional confidence I need. The course encourages independent thinking, academic rigour, and real-world application — all essential for someone who wants to teach and eventually run an educational project. The careers service and academic staff also offer guidance that helps me plan my next steps.

Advice...

What top tips would you give anyone thinking about studying your course at NTU?

1. Be curious — linguistics is full of surprising discoveries.
2. Engage with your tutors; they’re incredibly supportive.
3. Don’t be afraid of the academic challenge — the course will grow your confidence.
4. Take advantage of workshops, events, and extra opportunities.
5. Enjoy it — it’s a degree that changes how you see language and people.

As an International Student…

Why did you want to study in the UK?

I chose to study in the UK because it’s one of the best places in the world for international education. The UK has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, especially in subjects like English Language and Linguistics, and I knew that studying here would give me access to high-quality teaching, diverse perspectives, and globally recognised qualifications.

For someone who wants to understand the English language deeply and eventually teach it professionally, there’s no better environment than the country where the language originates. The multicultural atmosphere also makes the UK an inspiring place to learn, grow, and build connections with people from all over the world.

What experiences have you had as an international student at NTU?

My experience has been positive and supportive. NTU provides excellent resources for international students, from welcome events to academic support. I’ve met people from all over the world, learned about different cultures, and felt part of a diverse community.

What advice would you give to help new international students get settled in at university?

*Don’t be afraid to ask for help — NTU staff are incredibly supportive.
*Join societies or events to meet people quickly.
*Give yourself time to adjust; it’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first.
*Embrace the experience — studying abroad is a unique opportunity for growth.