Alfie
Ashton

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study your subject?

"My parents both worked industries that gave back to the community. When I was growing up, I always held what they did in such high regard. When I was finally ready to study, I knew my choice of course would reflect the values I was taught as a child and this course seemed like the perfect trajectory for me to accomplish that and prepare myself for a career based around caring for others around you."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"I chose NTU as after doing some research I felt like it would be a comfortable place where I would fit in. NTU does well to accommodate all the students that come through their doors and are very focused on treating you as an individual which I like. Also, I had family here which made the transition easier."

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

"My experience has honestly been fantastic, I feel like in first and second year the lecturers were very attentive to making sure that everyone understood the academic process thoroughly and instilling numerous life skills such as effective communication, empathy and leadership. In my final year I have been left to my own devices somewhat which has been nice as I feel the prior two years set me up well to work independently (this was a choice – if you want continued support, you will get it!). A personal highlight would be my placement work I did in second year where I worked at a charity based at Nottingham prison helping to source accommodation for people exiting the criminal justice system, although it was challenging at points I learnt so much there and it was very rewarding when the hard worked paid off."

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

"Not strictly through the university, but I have written a book of poetry that is a mixture of past reflections and social commentary. I am hoping to publish this and possibly do a creative writing master's to support my writing as it grows in style. The Creative writing department has agreed to discuss this possibility and have been helpful in guiding me to be able to do this."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"To me it's about understanding the intricacies of society and the over lapping nature of numerous aspects and how these shape individuals whether good or bad. Through studying social sciences, I feel I have gained new perspectives and learnt to look at situations through a more critical and balanced lens."

On Placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course?

"In my first year I did a placement with an alternative provision school. These specialist schools are equipped to work with students who do not fit into traditional school settings on a one-to-one basis. The school I worked at specialised on woodwork although I helped to teach English and Maths.

For my second-year placement I worked with a charity called Nacro. In this role I helped support individuals exiting the criminal justice system in gaining accommodation. I often worked at a hub attached to the side of the prison so would be a first point of contact, giving out essential resources such as clothes, non-perishable food and toiletries. I also led a project where I independently manged sourcing food donations for this service, collaborating with supermarkets and other local charities like food banks.

Through both placements I gained such valuable insight into the day-to-day workings in this sector and gained and improved on many skills such as communication, patience, empathy, understanding, ICT skills, independent working, organisation, collaborative work and effective and professional use of email in the workplace."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

"I think my first successful and independent case of helping a service user to gain access a bank account without a fixed abode (permanent address) will always stand out to me. I remember the service user being so grateful for my help and in that moment, I really felt like I had made a genuine difference to someone's life. A feeling everybody should get to experience at some point."

Support

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

"The support that I have been given while being on this course has been all round excellent. It is very tailored to you as a student and lecturers do very well to make you feel welcome and heard. Additional support services such as our department librarian are also easily accessible and helpful!"

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"As a mature student my experience has been somewhat different to what younger students would probably experience. But I would say as a city, Nottingham is very culturally diverse and rich in sub-cultures, you would be hard pressed not to find your people here."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"I would love to continue with my creative writing, and I am planning on writing a full-length novel which will be both a social commentary and a feminist empowerment piece. Additionally, I would also like to continue my pursuit of academic knowledge simultaneously. In my dissertation this year I have suggested a new theoretical framework for introducing AI into healthcare across England. Hopefully either the university or one of the academics in this field that I interviewed for this research would consider it valuable work for future practice (fingers crossed)."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"In our final year we have had lots of support from the employability team on planning our futures and been informed about lots of master's courses that might be suitable for further studies. Personally, although I have an idea of my desired trajectory, I am focussing on finishing up my final pieces for this year before I turn completely onto my future."

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

"Don’t stress yourself out too much about feeling like you might not be ready or suitable for this course, everything taught in first year is taken at a pace where everyone is able to get onto the same page and gain the skills, they will need complete this course."