Catherine
Hall

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study your subject?

"As a mature student, I wanted to study something broad, as I knew this would help me to explore different avenues of interest which would then (hopefully) enable me to focus on something that I found particularly interesting."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"I chose NTU because, at the time of application, I was a mum to a young son who needed my full attention. He is now a little older but continues to have my full attention. I needed to be able to study and be a parent without any problems and with me living in Nottingham NTU was my first choice. I chose Health and Social Care because I like working with people, learning about their life stories, and helping them if they should need it."

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

"I have enjoyed getting out there again and socialising with people from all levels of society. I wanted to show my son that even as a parent you can still chase your dreams! In my first year of my degree, I worked very closely with the homeless and marginalised in Mansfield, this was a real revelation and I have come away from this with a new outlook on life! After completing my placement I was nominated for The Jamie Marshall Award which I won last year- for my work within my placement."

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

"I worked with the homeless at a food bank and with young people aged 11-25 who had a range of mental health problems, trauma and other additional needs."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Working with people to help them, support them, and listen to them."

On Placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course?

"As above…although I feel that I have come away with a passion for working with people who are at their most vulnerable. I worked at The Beacon Project in Mansfield I was put into situations that I never thought that I would experience, from class A drug users to service users on bail/ remand, to people with life experience like no other!"

Support

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

"The support at NTU is like nothing I have ever experienced, the staff I cannot falter, I have had a few personal things happen to me while doing my studies and the staff were so supportive. Full-time education as a parent is difficult but the staff are always on hand should you need them."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"Yes, I found it very easy even though there isn’t always a common ground that brings you together it highlights how vast the diversity is within the university."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"A graduate scheme."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"Support networks, are always on hand should you need any additional support, guest lecturers, or communication."