Camrynn
Dueck

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?

"I’ve always had an interest in crime, the justice process, and different approaches to crime prevention and response. However, I was most intrigued by what drove people to commit criminal acts, and the psychological reasoning behind their actions. Growing up I was a bit of a true crime junkie, but I always felt the need to dig deeper into cases I heard about, finding more details than were shared on the podcasts or documentaries. I was intrigued when I first realised that I could complete a degree in this field and get the chance work within the sphere of criminology. When I realised that I had the chance to seize this opportunity, I was single minded in my goal to get into this programme and study Psychology with Criminology."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?

"I chose my course because it seemed like it best suited my interests and hopes for my future career. I knew I wanted to study Criminology, but the fact that I could do a combined course with Psychology was what really drew me to this specific course. The course alone made NTU one of my top choices, but the more I investigated NTU, the more interested I became in studying here. Specifically, I chose it for its high ratings of student satisfaction, it’s high rank in terms of employability, and reports of good student life. Additionally, the support I received from the university throughout the application process confirmed my decision that studying at NTU was the best fit for me."

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

"So far, my course has been engaging in terms of taught material and additional study outside of classes. I appreciate the way that you can apply and interact with information you learn in the lectures during the workshops, which has helped me better understand the course material. One highlight of my course has been the guest speakers that have come in for lectures. While the lecturers are clearly knowledgeable and invested, it lends a different weight to hear about specific incidents from people who are still heavily involved in the fields that directly connect to my degree. These lecturers have been an incredible experience and helped reframe my mindset when approaching the field of criminology."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Social Sciences means to me the chance to work with and help vulnerable people in our society. There are so many ways within the sphere of Social Science that you can engage with and give back to the community, from working to empower citizens and encouraging civic engagement, to helping individuals at risk and developing mental health initiatives. I am so excited I get this opportunity to continue my journey in this incredible field of service."

Can you tell us about the Scholarship you’ve been awarded and how that will help you in your studies?

"I am beyond grateful to have received this generous scholarship from NTU. I have wanted to study in the UK since I toured some of its universities when I was 13, however there was always a question of cost when it came to studying abroad. My application to NTU was resting on the hope that I would be able to be awarded a scholarship to supplement my personal savings for my studies. I was incredibly grateful to have received the Excellence Scholarship from NTU. It truly helped turn my dreams of studying at NTU into a reality."

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

"My biggest advice is to stay on top of all the homework reading and any assignments. It is definitely an intense course, but it is so interesting and rewarding when you get into it and begin to see how all the different aspects fit together. To that point, staying up to date with the coursework and readings is one of the best ways to gain an understanding of the material and avoid becoming overwhelmed."

Support…

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

"I really appreciate the support available from NTU. The support services offered by staff are an amazing tool, and it lends a lot of comfort to know there are a range of services available if I need them. I especially appreciate having a personal tutor to meet with once a week. It is helpful to have an allotted person who I can email if there are any pressing issues I am concerned about. Having that outlet has alleviated some stress I have about my course, marks, and settling into NTU in general."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre…

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

"I found it relatively easy to make friends through courses, socials, induction activities, and around my accommodation. I was nervous at first, but after realizing that everyone is in a similar situation (leaving behind their old friends and not really knowing anyone here) I felt more comfortable reaching out and interacting with my peers. I have made some amazing, close friends and they have helped me incredibly with settling into NTU and the country."

As an International Student…

Why did you want to study in the UK?

"I first visited the UK when I was 13, and I fell in love with the vast history and culture of the nation. I got the privilege to tour some of the universities around the country and since then, I haven’t been able to get the idea of studying here out of my head. As I got closer to graduation and I had to start seriously looking at post-secondary options, I was determined to at least try to study in the UK. The high quality, reputable education offered in post-secondary schools here cemented my decision further and I began to investigate universities best suited for me. NTU fit my needs almost perfectly, and now that I am studying here, I can’t imagine having gone anywhere else."

What experiences have you had as an international student at NTU?

"Outside of lectures and coursework, I have had the chance to engage with university society and job fairs, events, and (of course) clubbing nights and bar crawls. Whether I’m at the university studying, exploring the city, or out with my friends for the night, it is always interesting. Being at NTU has truly felt like being dropped in the quintessential, movie-style, university experience. I am so grateful for the experiences I have already had and am so excited for everything I have yet to do."

What advice would you give to help new international students get settled in at university?

"I would recommend getting out there and being as open to new experiences and people as possible. There are so many opportunities offered by the university to meet new people and make new friends. I found it very important to find your people, because your friends become your support system when you are living in an entirely new country. Also, do not be afraid to reach out to the university if you are struggling or have any questions. NTU has entire teams dedicated to helping students (and international students specifically) with whatever they are struggling with, and they are incredible at what they do. Besides that, have fun and enjoy the experience!"