Izzy
Barnes

Why NTU...

What inspired you to study your subject?

"When studying sociology at A-Level I became interested in how society is organised and how inequalities are reproduced and maintained in contemporary society. As a young woman growing up today, I became increasingly aware of how gender and class shape day to day experiences. Being able to understand these notions in depth is what truly inspired me to take my sociology studies further to a degree level, to be able to challenge social inequalities and utilise my own experiences in connection with social structures and institutions."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"After excelling at my A-Levels I decided to look at sociology courses around different UK universities as I knew this was what I wanted to do. I chose NTU due to their strong emphasis on independent learning and employability, I was also aware of the available support provided by NTU staff, on top of opportunities such as service-learning projects that provide work experience during the time here. It was a no brainer when it came to applying and accepting my place here, it is the ideal university to develop practical and academic skills."

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

"My experience of the Sociology course in my three years at NTU has been nothing but positive and supportive. I have developed strong relationships with my lecturers who are always approachable and encouraging with a commitment to student education as well as personal development. The course also has a strong social element; I have made many friends on my course as our seminars are inclusive and engaging where we can share our thoughts and opinions openly. A highlight for me would have to be the service-learning module in year 2, this allowed me to apply sociological theory to real-world issues. On top of this the wide range of modules each year have broadened my horizons and introduced me to new topics and new ways of thinking."

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

"Alongside my studies I have been involved in various extracurricular activities. NTU offer a wide range of societies, ensuring there is something for everyone and all interests. In my second year, I was part of the Help In The Community society, where I helped prepare and distribute meals to homeless people across Nottingham city centre. This experienced connected well with sociological themes I study such as inequality, exclusion, and welfare, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real world social issues."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"To me, social sciences is about understanding lived experiences and creating meaningful social change. It focuses on working with people, transforming lives by identifying inequalities as well as challenging them. Through studying sociology, I have developed my commitment to improving workplace experiences for women from all backgrounds and helping to bridge inequalities in regard to gender, race and class, bettering opportunities. Social sciences provide the tools to turn social awareness into social action and promote fairer and inclusive environments."

Support...

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

"The support throughout my time on this course has been excellent. I have built great relationships with my lectures, course leader, and dissertation supervisor, who are all approachable and genuinely invested in my success and my future. They have been supportive not only in my academic development but also during personal challenges I have experienced, further proving staff commitment to my wellbeing alongside my academic engagement. This level of support has made a significant difference to my confidence and my overall university experience at NTU."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre...

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

"I found it very easy to make friends and settle in at NTU. As a very social university, they were helpful when I was settling in and I quickly built strong friendships that have been a great support throughout the last three years. The welcoming and supportive staff at NTU played a massive role in helping me settle in, as well as helping me build confidence as a first-year student on my course."

The Next Steps...

What’s next for you after NTU?

"After graduating from NTU, I plan to spend some time travelling and immersing myself in other cultures, using my sociology degree to better understand people, social norms and global social structures. Following this, I am aiming to build a career in consulting or the corporate sector where I can apply my analytical and people-focused skills, that I have built throughout my degree. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to improving workplace experiences and promoting more inclusive corporate environments."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"NTU has played an incredibly important role in helping me work towards my career goals through the strong focus on employability. The course emphasises gaining practical experience, the service-learning project in year two allowed me to apply sociological knowledge to real-world contexts and gain hands on experience in project management. NTU also provides constant access to employability support from my first day right through to graduation, helping me build confidence, transferable skills and helping with my career projection."

Advice...

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

"My top tips for anyone thinking about studying Sociology at NTU would be to stay curious, and open minded, the course covers a wide range of topics that may be new to you as a student. Engage with your lecturers constantly especially when you first join as they are incredibly supportive and approachable. I would say to take advantage of all the opportunities here such as service-learning projects, societies etc. as they will enhance your overall university experiences as well as future career prospects."