Laura
Smethurst

"Nottingham Trent University was one of three in the UK which offered Forensic Mental health as a course. A friend of mine had already completed the course and therefore recommended it. In addition to this, it was the only one that offered a competitive scholarship opportunity.

"I knew that NTU was a well-respected university, with excellent facilities for psychology and social sciences in the centre of the city of Nottingham. This meant it was easily accessible and had everything I would need whilst at university.

"Receiving a scholarship has allowed me to complete the course in the first place; without the support from the University, I would have had to take a year out in order to earn the money to pay for the course. Also, it has allowed me to focus on my studies rather than having a full time job alongside the course.

"The combination of two of my favourite subjects attracted me to the course. The University is in a good location which has allowed me to commute from home, rather than renting an apartment.

"My greatest achievement so far has been receiving a distinction in a project proposal during semester one. I plan to have a year out next year to work and gain experience, and then plan to do a Clinical Doctorate in order to become a Clinical Psychologist."