Srijayee
Biswas

Can you tell us why you chose to study in the UK and why you chose NTU?

“As I studied English Literature in my undergraduate degree, I was fascinated by the English culture. Also, the UK is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. When I was researching universities in the UK that offered journalism courses, NTU was recurrent in my search. Not many universities have segregated modules for different aspects of journalism like NTU. Here, I found a course designed to make me proficient in a specific area of journalism.”

What route did you take into postgraduate study?

“I worked as a content strategist and copywriter before pursuing my Masters in magazine journalism.”

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

“My course is very up to date with the latest trends in the magazine industry. The modules are designed to meet current industry demands, and equip students with the necessary skills required to land their dream job.”

When choosing a course for postgraduate study what did you consider it important to have?

“Accreditation and vocational learning were the two most important factors for me; a scholarship is certainly an added bonus. The journalism course at NTU is NCTJ accredited and the modules are industry specific.”

What modules / projects have you particularly enjoyed or found useful?

“I found the Magazine Journalism Skills and Digital Production module to be most interesting; it covered all the skills required for a Magazine Journalist including story writing, interviewing, sub-editing, video making, Indesign and Photoshop training. We were required to submit three portfolios, which included different pieces of journalism.”

How does the way you study at NTU differ from your previous experience of studying?

“Studying at NTU has been a great experience. I studied English Literature at my previous university, which was very theoretical, but my course at NTU has been a practical one with ample hands-on experience. We have had industry professionals give us really useful advice about the job market. The vocational learning method has been a huge help to supporting my understanding of the requirements of the industry.”

Have you completed any internships or work placements in the UK?

“I did two internships, one with the NHS through the Grads4Nottm scheme, and another with an independent lifestyle magazine called Phoenix. Both my employers were very supportive, guiding me through every step of the way.”

What has been your greatest achievement as an NTU postgraduate student?

“There have been many, but if I have to choose one, it would be my internship with the NHS through the Grads4Nottm scheme. It was a two-week paid internship where I got the opportunity to learn about the Queen’s Medical Centre, the Nottingham City Hospital, and the nurses who work there.

“I was required to prepare a routine for the mental and physical wellbeing of the staff. It was a great experience working with a team who were as enthusiastic about health as I am. Our supervisors guided us every step of the way, and our final presentation went really well.”

Have your career plans changed as a result of your postgraduate study?

“I always wanted to work for a magazine and with my Masters degree, I am confident that I am ready for the job hunt, and dream job is just a few steps away.”

What are your plans for the future?

“I plan on working in a lifestyle magazine as a feature writer.”

How have you found the postgraduate community in Nottingham?

“I often used to hang out at the Global Lounge, which is a great place to meet new people from different parts of the world. The postgraduate community is very friendly, and I made new friends very quickly. In this great mix of people, you are bound to find someone like you.”

What advice would you give to fellow international students?

“NTU is a great place to study and broaden your horizons by experiencing new things and meeting new people. The staff and teachers are always ready to help you and make sure you have the best year. Nottingham is an exciting and energetic place with numerous events happening every now and then.”