Sattam Alsalhabi

I chose Northumbria…

 because it was one of the best universities that I could choose to do my particular course. I came to the UK with my family a while ago as my wife is doing a PhD in Neuroscience. I realised that while I was here I could have the opportunity to study myself and I haven’t regretted it.

The University is great because...

 all levels of ability are catered for, and everyone is so friendly when they offer you help. I was expecting the course to be tough, and sure enough it was. I didn’t do a Foundation Programme before I started whereas some of my classmates did. I think they had a slight advantage over me to start with but with help I have overcome the challenges and we are all doing well now.

Newcastle is a great place…

 but the weather can be really cold sometimes! Having said that, the summer weather is great for getting out into the countryside and enjoying all of the outdoor activities that are available here. Some of the food is great… for example, I love fish and chips, and the fruit and vegetables here are so fresh. I’ve never tasted strawberries like the ones that I have had since I got here.

I like to explore the country…

 since I got here, especially by car. I love driving here and I have been to many different places with my family in the car. For example we have been to Leeds, and we went to Edinburgh and saw many exotic animals at the zoo there. I am looking forward to exploring more of the UK in the coming months and years, using Newcastle and Northumbria University as my base.