Name: Anna Pacak
Degree: English and Media Cultures
Home University: Nice Sophia Antipolis University, France
When did you study at Northumbria University?
I studied at Northumbria University during the academic year 2017/2018 as the third and the last year of my degree
What subject did you study at Northumbria?
I had a chance to take subjects from different areas like: Understanding English Grammar, US History, Literature and my absolute favourites Media Cultures, Everyday Media and Sport Media and Society
Why did you decide to do Study Abroad?
I like to travel and face new challenges. I always wanted to study at one of UK’s universities, experience the different campus life and studying culture. Plus I am a football fanatic so living in football’s motherland for a year was the dream!
Why did you decide to come to Northumbria University?
Northumbria was recommended to me by my Home Institution so I gave it a try!
What is your favourite memory of being at Northumbria?
I am not sure if I can pick one… I really enjoyed every class of Media Cultures and Sport Media. I also loved Boxing training and everything about the library. I would spend half of my time in Newcastle there. In general the approach to students was very student-friendly and it seemed like everyone was trying to make our experience easier (which is not always the case in France).
Did you find living in Newcastle expensive?
Not really. I realise it’s different depending on the home country but comparing to France, life in Newcastle was very affordable. I found amazing and very cheap accommodation so that cut half of the usual costs. Groceries and clothes had average price but things like takeaway food or cinema was crazy cheap, especially for students!
How will you use your experience of Studying Abroad at Northumbria in the future?
It actually helped me find my path to the future degree of Administration and Management of Professional Sports Clubs which is something I always wanted to do! The Sport, Media and Society module gave me a good idea of what the sport/football community is and how to approach it from the Media and PR perspective.
What advice would you give to a student who is thinking of coming to Northumbria to Study Abroad?
Do it now. Do not stress over organisational or academic matters. Literally everyone at Northumbria is always happy to help you with anything. The University has some of the best facilities I’ve seen and some of the best professors I’ve ever met. Also, the variety and quality of sport classes is pretty great too!
I will never not recommend studying abroad to someone. It helps you understand other cultures, opens your mind to new perspectives in life and develops your creativity. Plus you can meet the best people!
