Poppy
Riley

Why NTU

What inspired you to study your subject?

"Growing up I was always inspired through the amazing support I was given at school from my teachers. This made me want to give the same guidance to other individuals during their educational journey to help them develop as an individual and feel included."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"I chose this course because NTU was rated high in the student awards and is also known for their education courses meaning for me, it felt like the best place to go. It also has a very accessible support system which made me feel more drawn to NTU as I would be part of a community, advocating for individual needs and extra support during my studies."

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

"My experience has been beyond words can describe. I was expecting it to feel much scarier, but this course has helped me grow as a person allowing me to make tonnes of new friends whilst studying something I love. One highlight would have to be the group tasks as it means working with other individuals, building relationships and all being passionate about the same subject making it such a fun experience."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Social Sciences to me means helping others and giving back resources you received, building positive environments, improving the well-being of individuals and yourself as you achieve a sense of self and determination to make significant benefits to other people’s daily lives."

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 have completed one two-week placement in which I worked in a preschool. It gave me the realisation of what my future holds supporting individuals and improving their well-being. I worked one-to-one with an individual with disabilities which was very rewarding as I gained skills in adaptation of the curriculum to suit this individuals needs, to help them flourish within their environment. Working with early years was very insightful as it showed me how I have the power and privilege to aid younger generations to grow and develop."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

"Working one-to-one with this individual and gaining the knowledge of the ways each individual alters was a memorable moment. This specific individual was non verbal and gained stimulation and interaction through sounds which made it very memorable for me forming a close bond with this child knowing how to act when they became overwhelmed and distressed. I would clap my hands or sing nursery rhymes to help the child self regulate and feel more comfortable in their surroundings. It made me feel lucky to be able to use my knowledge to improve this child’s experience."

Support

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

"I think the support at NTU is astonishing. There is always someone you can go to for help or advice even if it isn’t solely about the course but just your own issues you are struggling with. This is great as it makes you feel relieved and excited to go to lectures and study when you know you have all the support you need during your studies."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"I think solely I found friends on my course, however, it is easy to meet loads of new people at events and also your halls. Everyone is so friendly and feels the same way as you starting their new chapter in their life so you connect instantly and form bonds with many people."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"After NTU I would like to train to work in the mental health sector with young people to help improve their well-being. I’m not entirely sure but maybe work with SEN also. I haven’t fully decided yet of what my future holds but I want to help young people struggling within the education sector to reach their goals and feel included and supported during their educational journey."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"I think NTU is so supportive of career paths and helps by giving you the advice and options to achieve your career choice."

Advice

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

"It’s an amazing course! One tip I would give is to enjoy every second of it as first year went so fast!"