Isabella
van der Borgh

Why NTU?

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"When I came to the open day I was inspired to choose this university due to the wide range of module choices, the additional language options, and the lecturers who spoke at the event. Nottingham is also a great university city to live in."

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

"Being on the committee for the Politics and International Relations Society has been a great part of my time here. As well as having and learning from more responsibility, it has added more to my social life. It has also aided my work by having friends on the course."

On placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course?

"I worked for a Labour MP, conducting research on a sustainability project for their constituency. This helped me build on skills I already had and new ones. It was a valuable experience that I am certain will be useful for the next steps in my career."

Being part of a real project with an MP was fantastic, having my research used to optimise a project was extremely rewarding."

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

"The support for my course has been amazing. Most lecturers will always make time for the smallest of course concerns and are always willing to listen. I can’t fault the support from Politics & International Relations lecturers in my experience."  

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"It was difficult during the first year to branch out due to COVID. However, after the restrictions were lifted, the support from the course society and being able to go to university made it easy to make new friends."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"My time at NTU has inspired me to continue my education journey and do a masters in the future. Before this, I am applying for jobs within the project management and policy advisor areas. I am excited to apply the skills and knowledge I have learned at NTU."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"Different assessment types such as presentations, reports, and real work experience. These have enabled me to feel more equipped than I believe three years of essay writing would have."

Advice

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

"Ask questions, don’t hesitate to join societies, and take advantage of the range of different modules offered (including languages)."