Alumni

Nela Hoskovcova

Career Path: Food and Health Officer - Nutritionist at North Tyneside Council.
Location: United Kingdon

After finishing my BSc Hons, I continued studies to do my MSc at Ulster University in Food and Nutrition. Nutrition and health have always been a passion of mine, so have sport and exercise. That is why I went on to also do my level 3 personal trainer and gym instructor certificate. After finishing my MSc, I got a job as a senior fitness instructor and personal trainer at Durham University gym and after a few months working there full time, I got a job as a Food and Health Officer - Nutritionist at the North Tyneside Council, where I work full time now delivering nutrition sessions, weight management programmes and developing nutrition resources. I still work part time in the gym, because I genuinely enjoy it. The learning does not stop at university, it is a lifelong process but for me a really enjoyable one!

What are you doing now?

Everything nutrition around the borough of North Tyneside and wider. I deliver face to face sessions about food and nutrition, deliver weight management programmes, develop easy to use nutrition resources and keep up to date with nutrition research.

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

It was the course modules that sounded great and I had been told Newcastle was a nice place. I was not disappointed about Northumbria, I loved my time there. The staff were absolutely amazing and helpful, content delivered in just the right way, great facilities.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

It was a mixture of lectures, seminars, team projects, placement. The lecturers and other staff were simply wonderful, so helpful and always happy to give that little extra support. Feedback was constructive and the assessments fair. If you are eager to learn, you will learn a lot.

How connected was your course with industry?

I had a placement in my third year, which was a fantastic experience and I was able to use it when applying for a job.

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

Massively, it was the first real industry experience. I did a placement as a nutritionist at Sunderland Football Academy, so I was able to refer to this experience when applying for jobs and beyond.

What was the best thing about your course?

The staff. The support and willingness to have a deeper discussion about the industry outside of the lectures or seminars were invaluable. Always felt at ease, supported and happy to learn.

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

It introduced me to the industry and the big world out there. I would not be where I am now if I did not go to Northumbria, no doubt.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

All the crucial nutrition knowledge. Independence, writing, not being afraid to ask questions and make myself heard.

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

Genuinely the learning part. I love the topic I studied so I loved learning all the ins and outs. The facilities were great too.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

Go for it and immerse yourself into the studies. Do that extra reading, find your passion for your field and have conversations with your lecturers about it. Use it as a starting point to your career. You will love it and feel prepared to tackle the world after.