We went to Highfields on Monday afternoon, a public green space / park set in the University of Nottingham grounds. When we go for a walk to Highfields we always have a walk through the university campus as it has a nice vibe and some great buildings too. As we walked towards the Students Union building, we noticed a big marquee on the car park.
Outside the marquee I spoke to a young student, Matt, inside the marquee was a Nottingham Christian Union event, the event had two different speakers on the topic of “true fulfilment”. “What really is it? Can I be truly fulfilled? And can I find fulfilment in Jesus?”
Matt told me that the event was not restricted to students, members of the public could attend. Attendees could have a free buffet lunch too. Matt is a first year Economics student. I asked him about his job prospects when he graduated, Matt thought that he should be OK, but hadn’t made any plans yet regarding his career choices. I asked Matt where he came from and he replied Watford.
I asked if he was a Watford FC supporter and Matt enthusiastically said “Yes”. We then had a nice football chat, I told him I’d been to Vicarage Road (the home of Watford FC) many years ago watching my team, Bolton Wanderers. Matt knew about the Wanderers from when we were a top Premier League side, “Jay Jay Okocha ...so good they named him twice” he said. I was impressed he knew that as when Jay Jay was in his prime, I doubt Matt was born !
Matt is in halls of residences, I asked him if he had sorted out his year 2 accommodation yet. Matt told me he was moving into Lenton. I told him he’d be OK in Lenton, it’s a nice urban community and has a sizeable student population.
Matt was finishing his stint as a welcome host for the event. I asked him if he was off to lectures. He only had one lecture on a Monday ! 16.00 to 17.00 at the end of the day. “I’m not getting my money’s worth today” joked Matt. “One lecture” I said “It was full on all day when I was a student 40 something years ago” !
When I told Matt I’d photographed over 400 strangers, he asked if he was the first Watford FC stranger. I told him I think he was. He pumped the air in celebration (like a footballer does). We shook hands and I wished him good luck with his degree and career.
What a fabulous narrative and a super portrait. He looks so happy on the inside and the outside, if you see what I mean! His smile lights up his eyes. Wishing him every good thing too. Love the last paragraph! Clearly loves Watford FC!
@casablanca thanks Casa' Matt had a lovely smile and I had a great chat with him . I see what you mean . My wife said "he seems like a nice lad" . He was :)
Fairly certain I recognise Matt!!The church we go to is right by the uni and we have lots of students come - 150+ of them so I don't know them all but there is a good chance he comes especially as he looks familiar to me and hubby. He has a lovely smile.
@newbank awww that's nice newbank . Say hello to Matt if you see him . We didn't exchange social media details , so it will be nice to show him the photo 📷😊
@marlboromaam thanks Mags, that's a lovely comment from you