James Dinsley

What undergraduate course did you study and where?

BSc (Hons) Architecture and Environmental Design at Sheffield Hallam University.

Why did you decide to study a Masters? 

To find a new career.

Why did you choose Northumbria University? Why did you choose your specific course?

It's convenient for my daily commute, has a strong reputation on Real Estate courses and direct links to industry, and I was impressed by a taster lecture prior to starting my MSc.

What makes your course challenging/inspiring/different?  

The tutors are all very enthusiastic, which helps to drive my studies. Access to online resources helps me gather the best information to give my work more depth and greater detail.

What is it like studying at Northumbria? 

All lectures are followed by a seminar to put knowledge into practice. Frequent trips to sites/cities enhances student engagement with Real Estate. Guest lecturers have been from varied backgrounds, giving insight into vast areas of the subject and also suggesting the many career paths available to Real Estate students. Feedback is constructive, but more importantly opportunities to get further feedback are always available due to the 'open door policy'.

How connected is your course with industry? Do you have the opportunity of a placement, or work on projects?

Tutors have experience/connections with industry. RICS events are advertised to us and it is recommended we take part to begin networking.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

Their enthusiasm for the subject, paired with significant knowledge levels.

How accessible do you find our staff? 

Very accessible, the 'open door policy' being the driving factor.

As a postgraduate student, what aspects of university life are important to you?

Facilities, connection with tutors, campus services (parking, cafes etc.)

What doors do you think this course will open for you?

This course has directly influenced my ability to get on to a graduate scheme with a top Real Estate firm by giving me insight into the recruitment process, interview prep, and the knowledge and understanding to back my application.

Have you changed as a person?

I have become more aware of the Real Estate environment I live in, matured in my ability to connect and communicate with professionals and as a result gained more confidence.

How would you describe yourself in three words before coming to Northumbria? What are the three key skills and attributes you have gained since being here?

Lacking in ambition. I've gained focus, confidence and drive.

How would you describe Northumbria in three words?

Helpful, informative, modern.

Do you feel that your course has been a worthwhile investment in your future?

Very much so, it has allowed me to cross over from a career in Architecture which I was not interested in, to a broader career in the construction industry.