Published on 27 January 2019
Nathan Todd is determined to fly high in all aspects of his life.
The University of Sunderland student has fought tooth and nail to achieve his dreams of becoming an accountant.
But the 22-year-old has always known the importance of helping others.
Now, the Accounting and Finance student has been nominated for a new campaign – Rate Your Mate - which aims to shine a light on hard working students who go above and beyond in their studies, life and work while at the University.
Nathan has been nominated by Lauren Alexander, 20, who says she is continuously inspired by his determination to overcome every obstacle presented to him.
Lauren, a Sociology student, said: “Ever since I have known Nathan he has gone above and beyond what is expected, everything he sets out to do, he achieves.
“It’s inspiring to me to see someone go after what they want with such determination, while also finding time to think about others.”
Flying high in life is something Nathan, from Killingworth, has wanted to do from an early age.
“When I was younger I wanted to be a pilot; that was the dream.
“But, coming from a working class background, it wasn’t realistic to pay for the £150,000 worth of training that would be needed.”
Any student who would like to nominate their friend can email rate@sunderland.ac.uk and let us know what makes your mate amazing
But that hasn’t stopped Nathan pursuing his flying dream as a hobby, and he has even had his first flying lesson.
The former George Stephenson High School pupil is now working at Durham accountancy firm Mullen Stoker in between completing is fourth year of studies at the University.
“To be honest, I didn’t want to come to university back in 2015,” recalls Nathan. “I didn’t think I was good enough, I didn’t think I’d have the right qualifications.
“I’ve always seen myself as being more practical than academic and I do like to take risks.
“Then I came to Sunderland for a summer school and I ended up really enjoying it so decided to apply here.”
During his years at the University Nathan has kept himself busy. He has gained as much work experience as possible at different accountancy firms, while also carrying out charity work and volunteering.
Lauren said: “Nathan has also been an active and passionate student rep for his programme, as well as a student ambassador for the University. He was also briefly the treasurer for St Johns Ambulance.
“He’s not only a truly amazing student, but also an incredible individual, he is so hardworking, a real asset to the University of Sunderland.”
Don’t forget to Rate Your Mate at rate@sunderland.ac.uk and let us know what makes your pal brilliant.