Student Testimonial - Maisie Nicholls - BA Primary Education

Why did you apply to Durham University?

I knew I wanted to do a primary education course but wasn’t particularly sure which university I wanted to go to. I looked at league tables and Durham was very high up, so I went for an open day. On the open day, I fell in love with the city, and I was impressed by the facilities. So, I applied, and I was fortunate enough to gain a place.

If you attended an Open day did the experience help in your decision?

Open days are a great opportunity to get a feel for the university, but also the course. Open days are a great opportunity to explore the city which is almost as important as course information. At the end of the day this is the place you will be living for 3 years. We went to a session which introduced the course to us, which was very helpful. I loved the way the course was taught, with a balance of theory but also “practical learning” with the block placements. The open day was beneficial in my decision to apply to Durham. I would recommend them to everyone. 

If you attended a Post Offer visit day, did the experience help in your decision?

I had my heart set on going to Durham ever since the open day. However, I still attended the post offer visit day to make sure I was making the right decision for me. It was great to have a refresher about the course as the open day was so long ago. Along with another visit to the city centre, the post offer visit day confirmed that Durham would be my firm choice.

What was your interview experience like (compared to others you may have had without naming them) and did it influence your decision to accept your offer?

The Durham interview was the best interview experience I had. Before the interview we were given a tour of the campus, and we had time to socialise with people who would potentially be on our course. During the interview I was very nervous as most of my interviews had been online via zoom, however the interviewer gave me time to take deep breaths to calm my nerves. She kept on reassuring me that I was doing great, which really helped. I am forever grateful for her patience with me that day, I hadn’t had that experience in any other interview before.  

How do you feel about your decision now that you are on the course?

Applying to Durham was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’m finding the course interesting and I’m excited for what the future holds.