Aimee
Kimpton

What inspired you to study your subject and what was your experience of studying your course at NTU?

“I wanted to study Politics and International Relations because I have always wanted to help people and make a difference in my community. I also had a particular interest in British politics and wanted to develop my understanding of how politics works and how decisions made at a national level can affect people's everyday lives.

I chose to study at NTU because I wanted to stay local in Nottingham, a city I have always loved. My time at NTU gave me the opportunity to expand my knowledge of politics. The course gave me a strong understanding of different political issues and encouraged me to look at them from a range of perspectives, which has been particularly valuable in my career since graduating."

Did you complete any work placements or other work-like experience on your course?

“Alongside my studies, I gained a range of practical experience which helped me understand how politics and public service work outside of the classroom.

I volunteered at a community centre during my time at university, which gave me experience of working directly with people from different backgrounds and understanding the issues that matter to local communities. During the summer before my final year, I also worked as an organiser on a General Election campaign. This gave me experience of working as part of a team in a fast-paced environment, communicating with a wide range of people, organising activities and responding quickly to changing circumstances.

During my final year at NTU, I began working for a Member of Parliament in Nottinghamshire. This experience allowed me to put the knowledge and skills I had developed through my degree into practice, while also giving me a much greater understanding of constituency work and the role of an MP in supporting local residents."

Tell us about your current job role.

“I have remained in my role working for a Member of Parliament for over two years, having started the position during my final year at NTU.

My role is varied and involves supporting constituents with a wide range of issues through casework, as well as managing the MP's constituency diary. I organise and coordinate constituency surgeries, visits, coffee mornings, and other community engagement activities, which gives me the opportunity to work closely with residents, community organisations, and local groups.

The experience I gained at NTU, alongside my work during university, helped me develop an understanding of politics that I could apply directly to my role. Starting work for an MP while I was still studying also gave me valuable practical experience and helped me build a career in an area that I had been interested in prior to university."

How does the knowledge and skills you developed at NTU support you in your current role?

“My time at NTU helped me develop a range of skills that I use in my current role every day. The course strengthened my communication and research skills, as well as my ability to analyse information and communicate complex issues clearly.

The degree also developed my organisation and problem-solving skills which I use on a daily basis in my current role. Managing a busy constituency diary alongside casework and community engagement requires me to prioritise competing demands, work to deadlines, and find practical solutions to a wide range of issues.

The teamwork and communication skills I developed at NTU have also been particularly valuable. My current role involves working with colleagues, constituents, community organisations, and a wide range of other people, often on sensitive or time-critical issues. My degree gave me the knowledge and confidence to work in this environment, while my experiences outside the classroom helped me develop the practical skills needed to support people effectively."