Phillip Croft

What course did you study for your undergraduate degree and why? 

I studied Business and Management as an undergraduate. I chose this degree at 18 and did so largely because I thought it would be versatile enough to ensure I would have some appropriate experience and skills, in a generic field. Once I had decided what my passions would be later in life.

Which postgraduate course have you chosen to study at Northumbria and why?

International Relations, Conflict and Security

I chose this course, as in my undergraduate degree I had developed a passion for politics. This course seemed able to actualise these aspirations.

Furthermore, this course combined a worthwhile degree of theoretical knowledge that I would find interesting, as well as a level of practical content that could help me learn new skills for future employment. Such as writing policy reports and analysing current events critically.

What were your reasons for changing direction? 

During the second year of my undergraduate studies, I realised Business Studies was not a passion of mine and I lost interest in my degree.

However, upon completion of said undergraduate, I did wish to continue elements of my degree that I did enjoy. Such as discussions, critically analysing institutions and creating new policies that could help make a better world.

What advice would you give somebody who is thinking of studying an entirely new subject for postgraduate study?

Go for it, there is nothing worse than regretting not doing something. Especially if you find a newfound passion that you believe a postgraduate course can contribute to the fulfilment of. Since starting my postgraduate degree, I have become more fulfilled and more confident in finding purpose in future prospects.

How is your current course helping to prepare you for employment? 

My current course has combined theoretical knowledge that has helped me understand the history of this field of study, with contemporary events that have allowed me to interpret this knowledge and apply it in critical ways.

Furthermore, I have been taught how to apply a number of more practical skills that I can expect to perform in future employment. Such as writing policy papers and debating with peers. Finally, my course has introduced me to various experts in several fields of study, allowing me to network in the hopes of improving my future employment prospects.

Describe Northumbria in 3 words

Welcoming, Encouraging and promising.