Emma Collingwood

Where are you from?

Cramlington, Northumberland.

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I thought the course sounded interesting, relevant and practical. I also thought staff were approachable, informative and friendly when I attended the applicant open day.  I also wanted to stay in the North East and liked the location of the university.

What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?

I've lived in the North East all my life but have particularly enjoyed living in the centre of Newcastle as there are such a diverse range of things to do, whatever your interests. I particularly enjoy going to the cinema, eating out with friends and exploring Newcastle, as it's still really easy to find new places to visit and new things to do.

Did you find Northumbria University welcoming?  Was it easy to fit in?

I found it quite difficult to adjust to university life, for my first month at Northumbria but I feel this would have been the same regardless of the university I attended.  Northumbria Students' Union have a wide range of societies and when I joined the Writers' Society, I was able to find like-minded people with similar interests to me, helping me to fit in.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

I really appreciated the opportunity to take part in an Erasmus placement, in France and the support the staff gave to enable me to fully take part.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

The staff within the languages department have all been equally helpful and supportive throughout my time at university, both with academic and personal guidance.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

It's difficult to single anyone out but I've definitely met some amazing people and made some amazing friends.

What is your favourite place on campus?

I've really enjoyed living in halls of residence this year, as my flat is in a central location and gives me a level of independence, whilst being close to university.

Have you joined any sports teams, clubs or been involved in any volunteer projects?  Tells us about the highlights?

Throughout university, I have been involved in RAG week twice, as well as a variety of Volunteer Northumbria projects such as the Christmas Carolling Project. I have also been involved in the Writers' Society for four years and in my final year was elected president.

What is the best thing about your course?

I enjoy the fact that the class sizes are small, enabling us to have more guidance from lecturers, leading to a more personal and tailored degree.

What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?

If an opportunity is available, take it and make the most of it.

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 definitely would like to use my language skills in my future career.

Have you taken up any opportunities to travel with your current course/undertake field trips?  If so, please tell us about them.

I took part in my Erasmus placement, in my third year at the University of Burgundy in Dijon, France.  As a disabled student, I wasn't sure of the extent I would be able to take part in the placement but with the ongoing support of members of staff at Northumbria and in France, I was able to fully participate. I would strongly encourage other disabled students to consider doing an Erasmus placement.

If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?

Make the most of all aspects of your university experience and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle (e.g. confidence)?

I definitely feel that I have become more confident throughout my time at university, especially after taking part in my year abroad.  I also feel that I have become a more independent person.

If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?

Challenging, rewarding and eye-opening.

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

Yes, definitely.