Sylwia
Kazimierczak

Why NTU…

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I chose NTU over other universities because of the focus on the student rather than just on their performance. For me it was important to choose a university that would support me mentally as well as academically.

Could you describe your experience of being an NTU student?

Being an NTU student to means being part of a community with my peers but also the lecturers who you get to know throughout the years. Even though my time at NTU has been hindered due to COVID, my  overall experience has been extremely positive.

How would you describe the support from your tutors, university staff and student services?

The support offered at NTU is extremely plentiful. Whether that be  from your tutor or lecturers, everyone I have come across is always  willing to go above and beyond to help or direct you to a service  which will be useful.

On Placement…

Have you completed any work placements on your course? If so, tell us about your experience – where did you go, what did you do, what skills have you gained and what have you enjoyed the most?

I completed a 30-hour placement in my second year in which  I worked alongside 4 other students at a business offering flowers  for workspaces to boost mental health. During the placement,  we had to research and present a report on the benefits of flowers  for productivity and mental health. I enjoyed working alongside the  owner of the business as it was a new experience for me, also  I had to work alongside people who I did not know which mimicked  a work environment.

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

As my placement took place over Teams it was not as enjoyable  as I imagine it would be if it took place in person. However, I  appreciated the opportunity to experience working with  an independent business as I now know what to expect in  the future and it seems less daunting.

Do you have any advice for future students going on placement?

Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your placement supervisor  or your personal tutor! Also, enjoy the experience and try to learn  new skills as placements are a great opportunity to experience and  gauge the type of work you would want to do beyond university.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre…

What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

• Multicultural
• Lively
• Independent

Where is a good place to eat, drink or visit in the city

• Penny Lane
• Magic Garden
• Pepper Rocks
• Bunk
• Juice Bar
• Be at One
• 400 Rabbits

• No Homers Deli
• Blind Rabbit
• Braze
• Pho
• Cured
• Coco Tang

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

Yes, in seminars and so many different  societies. It is extremely easy to make friends at NTU. Also, the NTSU hosts events and club nights which provide opportunities to meet other students.

The Next Steps…

Has the employability team helped you plan for life beyond NTU?

The employability team is constantly holding events and  workshops to aid in making the steps beyond university appear  less daunting and even exciting. As I plan to continue my journey at NTU with a masters, I have not utilised all the employability services but it is reassuring to know they are always there.

What would you say to someone who is thinking of applying to NTU?

Do it! From the variety of courses to choose from to the constant  support throughout your time at university, NTU really is a great  choice if you are looking to have fun and excel academically.

What is one thing you wish you knew before starting at NTU?

To not be so anxious and afraid, everyone is in the same boat and  no one knows what they are doing. I wish I knew not to be afraid to  ask for help more as this would have saved me a lot of stress. Also, I wish I knew earlier how beneficial it is to get out of my  comfort zone and try new things, especially through societies.