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Ellis

Why did you choose NTU, NBS and your course?

I wanted to study International Business at University and recognised NTU as one of the top universities in the country for this course. I visited NTU on an open day and was impressed with the facilities and immediate support provided by staff from the business school.

What has stood out about NTU and Nottingham Business School?

The standard of teaching in the Nottingham Business School (NBS) has been exceptional. The teaching staff have consistently provided advice and support to help me achieve the best possible grades and get the most out of my course. The support from NBS has also stood out as they hold numerous events to help prepare students for the future for example, the Mock Assessment Centres which have been very beneficial.

How would you rate the course facilities and why?

Nottingham Business School provides students with a wide range of facilities which enable you to develop your knowledge and understanding of the subject no matter what your learning style. I have benefitted the most from the recorded lectures which enable me to refresh my knowledge of previously taught subjects in the year whilst completing revision during the exam period. The business school also provides several study areas which are accessible the majority of the time – even during COVID-19.

What is your favourite thing about your course?

My favourite thing about studying International Business at NTU is the number of opportunities that are provided. My course enables numerous employability opportunities such as placements, exchange programmes, volunteering, assessment centres, employer talks, and CPD.

Have you been involved in the CERT Mentoring Scheme? If yes, what has this role involved? What did you enjoy about it and how has it benefited you?

I have been a CERT student mentor during my second year at university, in which I provided advice and support to a group of first-year students. I thoroughly enjoyed this role as I was able to help my mentees with their transition to university which can be a stressful time for new students. It has benefitted me as I have been able to make new friendships and develop my interpersonal skills.

Have you had the option to personalise your course and experience at Nottingham Business School? How has this benefitted your studies?

My course at NBS allows me to personalise my degree, for example I was given the option to choose a language to study in my first year. I have further personalised my course in the second year by choosing to study Management Accounting as my optional module. These options have benefitted me as I have been able to modify my course to suit my career aspirations.

Have you had the opportunity to get involved in any volunteering projects? If so, what did this involve and how did you benefit from getting involved in this?

I was given the opportunity by my academic mentor to volunteer as a Language Buddy at the beginning of my second year. In this role, I supported two Spanish exchange students with their transition into NBS. This experience benefitted me as I was able to improve my language skills and develop my understanding of Spanish culture.

Did you gain any work experience during your course? If so, can you tell us whether it was a placement year, internship or other opportunity? What have you enjoyed about this and what the benefits have been?

My second of studying encourages the completion of work experience through certain modules, for example during my Employment and Enterprise module I completed 20 hours of work shadowing in a multinational company. I have enjoyed this experience as it has given me an insight into working life and what to expect in my placement year.

Have you used the services of the employability team during your time at NTU? If so, what help did they provide and how have you benefitted from it?

I have utilised the employability services at NTU by attending meetings with some of the staff where I have been advised on my applications for placement opportunities. I have also had support on where to find internships and how to tailor my applications to meet the specific recruitments of a job role.

What do you think of the support available at NBS and NTU? 

The support I have received from teaching staff, student mentors, and employability members is always available when requested and has been beneficial in my development.

What’s next for you after NTU?

After NTU I am hoping to put the skills and knowledge I have gained from my studies into practice. Ideally, I would like to work for a company with international links where I will be able to utilise the language skills I have developed.

Has the employability team helped you plan for life beyond NTU?

The employability team has given me the information and tools I need to search out the best opportunities available. They have also shown me how to articulate my skills in line with the requirements of a job specification. The support provided has given me lifelong skills which will help me throughout my career.