Name: Joy Burge
Course: BSc (Hons) Real Estate
Scholarship: CBRE Real Estate
What was it about Northumbria University that made you want to study here?
I wanted to study here because I was inspired by a good friend of mine who had studied here a few years ago, she has had nothing but a lot of good things to say about the university that was convincing enough for me to consider Northumbria over Newcastle University, as I got offers in both universities. Secondly, Newcastle is home to me as I am based here, so it was the best option to attend here. Lastly, I was thrilled to find out that they offered a course that I was interested in, so I had to delve in.
What do you like about studying at Northumbria?
So far it has been brilliant, there’s ample resources for students to learn and develop their skills and knowledge, there’s lots of support systems in place within the campus such as Ask4Help among others. There are also other support groups that checks on student every so often to find out how they’re coping with Uni life etc.. so overall it has been a good experience.
My favourite part of my course is the fact that I get to visit a number of historical places, buildings and sites, learn about them and how they have come to be as well as how they have integrated into the modern-day architecture an example is ‘Facadism’ which integrating old listed buildings with new structures so that the new building is sustainable and meets modern standards yet retaining a part of history. I think it is simply amazing.
What benefits has the scholarship provided?
Definitely confident boost as well as one to one opportunity, as an adult student, I have a lot on my plate and so being able to get extra support that I needed because of how very busy my life can be with private life is really rewarding to me as it enables me to catch up in my learning, look back on my feedbacks and make progress from it. So, it has really benefited me.
Has your course or the scholarship influenced your future goals?
My future goals are to hopefully complete my APC to enable me to become chartered in my career and so I can work with different organisations without limiting my opportunities as becoming a chartered surveyor will create more job opportunities. Also, the scholarship has definitely played a part, I believe that I achieve anything I put my mind to because I don’t have that financial worry while studying.
If you could give advice to somebody considering university, what would it be?
I would say DO IT!. Never hesitate if you have the opportunity and never delay. Start now and never let anything stop you. If you are worried about anything, I’m sure most universities have a lot of support mechanisms available to students that will help put your mind at ease and you know the best part?.. it goes super-fast, before you know it, you’ve finished and graduated. So, I strongly recommend that you go for it, and you’ll never regret it.
