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Why NTU…

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I chose to study architecture because my dad is an architect and I have watched him work my whole life and wanted to do the same thing. Additionally, I saw the dilapidated state my country’s infrastructure is in and I knew that I wanted to make it better. NTU was also a great choice for me because of the diversity of culture and experiences that the school offers.

What do you think about the course staff? How do they support your learning and university experience?

I think that the course staff are very helpful with my learning experience. They are all willing to provide the support I need whether that be with one-to-one pastoral support or giving me extra feedback and encouragement when I’m stressed and unsure of myself. It is really helpful when my teachers are willing to have conversations with me about my university work but also about life outside university and having a good work life balance. The course staff are wonderful.

Have you been involved in any live projects of briefs on your course and if so, can you talk a bit about one you really enjoyed?

Yes, I have been involved in one live project and another semi-live brief. The first live project I did, was at the beginning of the year and it was a project that first and second years did together.

It was nice to work with the first years on their very first project. However, I enjoyed the second project more. The brief was to create a hybrid-housing scheme set within a town nearby. I really liked coming up with the proposal and having the opportunity to showcase my work at a local art exhibition to help inspire the city on how to move forward with developing that area.

Does the “real” NTU match what you’d imagined? How does it compare with your friends’ experience at other universities?

So, I honestly came to university with no expectations because I had no idea what it would be like. With that in mind, I have genuinely enjoyed my experience at NTU so far. My favourite thing has been getting to know my tutors more and also working as a student mentor. It has been really great getting to know my first-year mentees and it is one experience I will cherish.

In comparison to some of my friends’ experiences at other universities, I feel that I am lucky because I am given so much support and I know that if I ever need help in anyway the university offers many different avenues to access it. I have heard from friends at other universities that they are not given as much support, and that is unfortunate.

How would you promote NTU to potential students in 10 words or fewer?

Great place to learn that provides a wonderful support system.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre…

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

Honestly, not particularly. I’m not very social, so it was difficult to meet new people who share similar experiences and values. I did meet some people in my course that have become excellent friends, but it was over our shared bond of the torture that is architecture. ;)

The Next Steps…

What’s next for you after NTU?

I haven’t thought too deeply about life after NTU because I am just trying to get through what is directly ahead of me. However, I would like to go on to earn a master’s degree and eventually become certified as an architect.

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

In first-year the employability team provided a few opportunities to learn about life after NTU and how to get summer placements because Architecture is not a sandwich course.

In Second year, there have been more opportunities and more hands-on advice about how to take charge and start preparing for my future beyond NTU. For example, during an employability team workshop, I was given direct advice on how to set up and utilise a LinkedIn account for networking and finding job opportunities.

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

NTU is providing me with tools and resources to help me start building up my CV to make myself a valuable addition to the workforce. There are so many work experience opportunities within the university and there are many tools, such as the Employability Hub in Newton, that I can utilise to plan for and achieve my goals.

Advice...

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

I would definitely suggest that they research extracurricular activities to take part in within the university because it is a great way to meet new people and ensure a good work/life balance. Architecture demanding course and student within this field often get overwhelmed, so to have a beneficial way to release stress would be great.

I would also suggest that you try to attend all the timetabled lecture and seminar sessions because they are invaluable to the learning process and they help keep you on track.

As an International Student…

Why did you want to study in the UK?

I wanted to study in the UK to learn in a new environment and live within a new culture. Another strong determining factor for me was that the architecture certification in this country is recognised globally, so it would ultimately give me more opportunities. Lastly, my friends and I from Nigeria wanted to go to university together and we all got into NTU together, so it was really nice to have a community from home with me as I embarked on a new adventure.

What experiences have you had as an international student at NTU?

NTU is a very diverse university, so it has been really nice to encounter people from so many different cultures. There are always people that have made me feel welcome and helped me feel like this can be a home away from home.

What advice would you give to help new international students get settled in at university?

Just be yourself and be comfortable and everything will work itself out. You will make friends and you will set up that bank account. You will miss home, but you’ll also learn a great deal and meet wonderful people that make a home away from home.