Lexie
Dettmar

Why NTU...

What inspired you to study your subject?

I’d never studied sociology before coming to university. I felt inspired by the changing world around me and wanted to research this further. I liked the broad scope of careers, which can also come from studying sociology.

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

I liked how the course had contemporary modules which other universities did not offer. I liked the concept of being able to pick my modules and tailor them more specifically to the career I desire. The course is also ever-changing for example, in my third year, we were able to complete an assessment working alongside AI and critiquing its strengths and weaknesses. This has helped massively when interviewing for grad roles, as AI training is greatly sought after.

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

The course has been great; the lecturers are super willing to help and definitely want to see you doing well. I always find seminars particularly engaging as lecturers often tailor what we’re discussing to contemporary issues and can give real life examples, so everything makes sense.

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

I took part in a trip down to London to see the Wellcome museum, this was super insightful and helped with the modules I was studying at the time. It also allowed me to spend good quality time with my course mates, which we didn’t always get to do during the term time.

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

Social science means understanding personal experiences shaped by wider social structures, and the space to question things which may be “common sense’ with great criticality.

On Placement...

Have you completed any work placements on your course? 

Yes, I completed a placement year in Edinburgh doing recruitment, HR and business development for a global company called Randstad. My role was as a fulfilment consultant. I developed professional skills and built great connections in the professional world.

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

I was nominated as placement student of the year within my first six months for constantly excelling in my personal targets and actively contributing to team KPI’s.

Support...

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

Amazing, all the staff are so willing to help, and all want to see you doing well.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre...

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

Yes, the friends I’ve made in my first year have all stuck and we’ve now lived together for three years.

The Next Steps...

What’s next for you after NTU?

I’m looking to move to Manchester and I’m deciding between whether to go into business development and further my skills I developed on placement, or start a new journey into personal relations.

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

NTU is helping by actively tailoring coursework to skills employers want to see e.g. AI training.

Advice...

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

As long as you’re open minded and okay with having your thoughts and opinions critiqued then the course is so interesting. Definitely go for it!