Ria
Daniels

Ria Daniels was awarded the Stoneygate Award.

Why NTU...

How has the Stoneygate Award supported you and your studies?

"The Stoneygate Award has allowed me to fully focus on my education, without having work lots of extra hours on top of my studies. It has given me so much more freedom, and because of this I am able to give my complete dedication to my degree."

How did you find the application process?

"It was smooth and easy! I filled the application form out, and then I was contacted a few weeks later. I felt very supported."

Would you recommend the award to other people thinking about studying at NTU?

"Absolutely! It has made my first year experience so much better and I am so grateful. It is not a guaranteed award, so it is best to have another financial plan in place to support you until you find out if you have got the award! However, it will be a huge helping hand if awarded. It has changed my experience for the best, immensely!"

What inspired you to study your subject?

"I always enjoyed Sociology during A-Levels, and I had previously attended a different university undertaking a different course, which was really not for me. I took some time out, and decided to follow my dream of becoming a primary school teacher. I chose Sociology to help enhance my understanding of people, which I feel will make me a better, more empathetic teacher in the future."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"I chose my course because I wanted to do a subject I truly loved. I loved the selection of modules here at NTU, I am especially excited to study the sociology of education in my second year! I went through clearing with NTU, as I was 21 when I started my first year, and I felt it was the most supportive university I had spoken to. I was spoken to every step of the way. I also love the city, there is always something going on and you can walk everywhere!"

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

"I absolutely love my course. My favourite module is Foundations of Social Theory taught by Michael Rees, he is a super engaging lecturer. I feel confident in my workshops to discuss my opinions, and he really challenges me to think outside of the box."

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

"I have had the opportunity to be a paid student ambassador, where I will be helping on upcoming open days and events. This is a really great opportunity to connect with others, including students at NTU, lecturers and prospective students too! We also have an upcoming trip to the Stephen Lawrence research centre, where we are going to explore issues of race and social justice, which I am very excited about!"

Support...

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

"My tutors have been so supportive at NTU, I feel comfortable speaking to them about anything whether that is home life, or support needed for my assessments. Our cohort is close knit, and I feel a personal but professional relationship with the staff. I look forward to my lectures and workshops, and know I am always supported by them."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre...

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

"I was lucky enough to make a close friendship group within my course in the first few weeks. I did not expect it to be so easy to make friends, as I was 21 when I started, but my friendship group consists of individuals who are 18-26. I have made amazing friends at NTU, we attend our lectures together and now we also do things outside of our scheduled timetable together too. It was nerve-racking at first, but after a few weeks I settled well and I am super happy!"

Advice...

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

"If you are thinking of studying Sociology at NTU I would recommend reaching out to staff and student ambassadors who can answer any questions you have. Look through the modules, visit the city and get a feel for it. Everyone is very supportive, and don’t be nervous to get in touch!"

What advice would you give to anyone applying through clearing?

"Going through clearing can be daunting, but my advice would be to write down any questions you have no matter what they are, give the clearing hotline a call and ask them everything! There are no silly questions! The clearing staff were super helpful in explaining everything I needed to know about the process, they made me feel at ease. I called them multiple times during my application, and I felt very supported."