Where are you from?
Wakefield
Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?
I really liked the atmosphere at the university and the course was perfect for me.
What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?
Newcastle has a great feel to it and is generally a really friendly city. I especially love the social life that comes with the city. It always has somewhere to relax with friends such as lots of coffee shops and bars that I really enjoy going to.
What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?
I have been most impressed with the convenience of living in Newcastle. I was really surprised at the fact that finding somewhere to live that was of a nice standard was really easy.
Did you find Northumbria University welcoming? Was it easy to fit in?
Northumbria University could not have been more welcoming. The staff and students on my course made it really easy to fit in and the lecturers are always at hand to help, no matter what the issue is.
What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?
Being given the opportunity to have a year abroad has been the highlight of my experience at Northumbria, as well as meeting the friends and the lecturers that I have got to know so well.
Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?
The lecturers have been a great help, Florence Potot especially has been extremely supportive and has helped me so much throughout any problems I have experienced throughout the past few years.
Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?
Ariane Bogain has been my main inspiration. She has a way of teaching that makes you share her passion for the subjects she teaches, and for that reason, I have enjoyed subjects that I would otherwise not have been interested in.
What is your favourite place on campus?
My favourite place is Squires building as it has a nice atmosphere to it and it is where the majority of my lectures take place.
Have you joined any sports teams, clubs or been involved in any volunteer projects? Tells us about the highlights?
I briefly played for one of the volleyball teams and I really enjoyed it. Playing away matches was a highlight because everyone was pumped to win.
What is the best thing about your course?
I love how suited the course is to me and the subjects covered, especially in French. The French and cultural modules apply to current affairs which I particularly enjoy as it has helped me to understand the world around me.
What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?
I have learnt so much about myself after starting university. I used to be very shy and hardly ever spoke up. Now, I know how to communicate properly and my self confidence has improved so much.
What do you want to do in the future? What skills have you learned/improved that you think will be of most use in your future career?
I would like to maintain my language skills by developing my translation skills further as I have learnt that I have a passion for it that I did not know existed. I would also like to develop my marketing skills in a business environment, especially in a creative way.
Have you worked on any projects with businesses or been on a placement? What were your most memorable experiences?
My business course included working on a real-life project which was really enjoyable as I realised where my strengths lie such as in creative strategies. I also completed a year abroad as a teaching assistant in the suburbs of Paris which was challenging but incredibly rewarding and I will never forget any of it.
Have you taken up any opportunities to travel with your current course/undertake field trips? If so, please tell us about them.
On my year abroad I put myself forward to go on field trips which helped me absorb the French culture even more. One trip included going to a book fair in Paris which allowed me to watch a professional interpreter in action which inspired me a lot.
If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?
I would say that if you want a really well rounded university experience where the course is challenging yet enjoyable with a great social life and support system, then Northumbria University is for you.
How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle (e.g. confidence)?
I have gained so much more confidence and independence from coming to Northumbria. I now know how to express myself properly which was always a massive hindrance for me.
If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?
Challenging, rewarding, unforgettable.
Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?
Absolutely.
For more information about me, visit:
Twitter: @clare_m_austin
