Harriet
Argyle

Why NTU?

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

"After completing my BA in Sociology at Nottingham Trent University, I knew I wanted to know more; more about the world of sociology outside the theoretical, beyond the journal articles and research papers. I had already seen a glimpse of it in some of my modules in undergrad, but I knew there was more out there. When looking at the prospectus for the MA course I knew I had found what I was looking for, I was beyond excited when I did."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?

"I loved the dedication NTU has made to public sociology; to creating those links between communities and universities and to making real active change through our research, instead of just researching for research’s sake.

I had also lived in Nottingham for three years at this point and I am beyond in love with this city and this university I knew I didn’t want to leave."

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

"One thing that was wonderful about the postgrad course was everyone’s commitment to working together and supporting one another, building on each other's strengths and different experiences. All anyone needed to do was ask and there was always someone who was willing to help.

I also got to be a course rep this year, which was a first for me as an NTU student. Seeing the other side of how decisions on how to make the course work best for both the staff and the students made me really appreciate the commitment being made to hear students' voices and make sure their problems are resolved. No problem was too small."

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

"The service learning module gave us the opportunity to perform public sociology; to work with a non-profit organisation in Nottingham to complete some research or create a resource to aid in their goals. This action-based research helped solidify everything we discussed in the other modules and really opened my eyes to some of the realities of real public sociological research. Honestly, it made it clear to me that this is what I want to do with my life."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"The Social Sciences to me mean looking beyond the curtain of ‘common sense’ to ask why things are the way they are. It is a brave and never-ending study that should be more respected in my opinion. I also think it should be much more accessible and integrated into other courses such as computing, business, politics and law; areas that both impact one another but very rarely communicate.

To make the world a better place, you must understand it, I would argue that the social sciences is a key to that understanding."

Support

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

"As Course Rep, I got to see a side of NTU that I hadn’t seen before, but that I never doubted. I always felt supported by the staff; their passion for the topic and genuine dedication to seeing us succeed have always been clear to me."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"Universities like NTU always have a wonderful sense of acceptance, that there is a place for everyone to find themselves and find friends both on their course and beyond. I was lucky to be part of some amazing societies that are full of friendly, supportive people.

As I said, I love Nottingham and NTU. This year I was so fortunate to not only continue and grow established friendships but to make more, new amazing friendships that I can’t wait to take with me after university finishes."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"I want to do something that will make a difference, whether through a PhD or working for an organisation like Framework. Anything that will make a real change in people’s lives, either in a small or big way, is the ultimate goal."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"The employability Team and the support of my tutors have really helped me solidify the paths I want to take. They have opened my eyes to new possibilities and career potentials I hadn’t considered before and opened doors for me in ways I will always be grateful for."

Has the employability team helped you plan for life beyond NTU as a postgraduate student?

"Absolutely, I contacted them asking for more information about the PhD application process and they were beyond helpful sending me resources and clear instructions on how the process works."