Abbie
Cooper

Why NTU?

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree in Psychology?

"Initially, I chose to study this postgraduate degree to gain the BPS accreditation that I needed. However, as I did more research, I quickly learnt that there would be so many more opportunities to broaden my academic and research skills, which could transfer into my life as a student and life afterwards."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?

"I completed my undergraduate degree on the Clifton Campus at NTU, and I always felt supported yet challenged by staff and my fellow peers. As well as this, lecturers and other staff were always dedicated, easy to talk to and knew up-to-date research in their field. This meant I knew that the content I learn would be tailored to ensure I understood its real-life applications. This community and feelings of safety at NTU fostered my growth and increased my confidence, which allowed me to believe in myself. So, I wanted to continue my academic journey here with different staff that had the same morals and principles – to help their students do their best."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?

"Despite this course being challenging at times, I have enjoyed stepping out of my comfort zone with new content. The course provides countless opportunities to interact with your lecturers and other staff regarding essay ideas, career goals and student life. Staff also go above and beyond to ensure that you feel prepared for your assignments and exams. For example, they put up additional readings and useful resources (like Padlets which accumulate group ideas) and do support/revision sessions outside of university timetabling. As well as this, the course understands that people have different interests within psychology and tailor assignments to allow for this individuality."

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

"I have been the Secretary of NTU Trampolining’s committee. This has allowed me to do something I enjoy, whilst learning how to manage my time and transfer my skills from my university course into a leadership role. As well as this, I completed an observation, in a primary school, for research that NTU staff were conducting. This opportunity allowed me to have first-hand experience of research in the real world, improved my confidence in my abilities and improved my teamwork in a different environment."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"To me, Social Sciences is being able to study the world we live in to make effective changes that give people the support, safety, and equal opportunities that we all deserve."

Support

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

"Support at NTU is all around, no matter what for and no matter where on campus. Staff and tutors are friendly, open, and easily accessible which makes all the difference when you have a burning question about an assignment or worry.  The information provided is always up-to-date and in your best interest. Staff can provide direct support regarding enquiries whilst also shedding light on different outlooks and opportunities."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"Despite being at NTU prior to this course, I was able to make new friends. My tutor group ensured that I had a safe place to share concerns and ideas, which helped me make new friends in lectures too. The encouragement of group work and discussions also allowed me to talk to people I did not know before and find people with a shared interest. The overall feeling of safety on campus made it easy to settle, especially when I felt homesick, as I knew I wasn’t alone."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"I hope to travel and transfer my academic and life skills to real-world issues (for example, I hope to volunteer in schools in Africa). As well as this, I hope to do external training that will further help my career working with children, young people, and their families. Eventually, I hope to train to become a Play Therapist."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"NTU is providing me with the current research that is being conducted in my areas of interest. As well as this, the module content allows me to see how areas of Psychology and Social Sciences work together which will help me in multi-agency work. As well as this, the course gives many opportunities to reflect on what interests us and to take these ideas to discussions where you can research initial and outside-the-box opportunities."