Alumni

Lucy Gardiner

Career Path: Masters Student, Glasgow University
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

After leaving Northumbria I began a Masters degree at the University of Glasgow in Transnational Crime, Justice and Security. I decided to study this to further pursue my Criminologist interests and continue building my knowledge for beginning a career associated with National security.

What are you doing now?

I graduated with a Masters degree a few weeks ago and currently have a part time retail job while I attempt to pursue a career involved in national security.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

I decided to study at Northumbria because the course was comprehensive and offered opportunities for placements with professionals working within criminal justice, and the University was situated perfectly, within my hone town - Newcastle. Additionally, due to personal circumstances I did worse than my potential in my A-levels but Northumbria’s admittance in Ucas allowed the necessary points to be counted from 4, rather than 3 A-level courses. This allowed me the flexibility to be admitted to the course and thrive once there.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

Across my degree, classes were split into lectures occurring first and informing students on a topic, and then seminars relying upon independent study to consolidate and build upon lecture knowledge and the opportunity to discuss these understandings among a group of students.

How connected was your course with industry?

I completed a placement module associated with completing my dissertation. The criminology department helped to to get a a placement with Northumbria Police where I was given the opportunity of participating in section visits, but predominantly the placement with two IOM police officers at a local probation centre for the academic year.

If you took on a placement during your course how did you feel this helped you in your career/ with your studies?

Throughout my placement I was able to conduct qualitative research and gain personal experience into the topic of my dissertation- the role of an IOM police officer. Additionally, my placement supervisors went beyond and connected me with two other regional IOM police officers (of which there are very few).

What was the best thing about your course?

I would definitely say the placement opportunities were the best part of my course.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

Northumbria served to consolidate my interest in crime and my goal to pursue a career in public service and in support of national security. My placement in particular consolidated this.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

During my time at Northumbria University I was able to grow in confidence and it taught me self responsibility and drive for my academic achievement outside of high school. This opportunity and difference is something that I really value and am very grateful for.