Briony Dawson

Where are you from?

Buckinghamshire

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

Loved the city and the local people and wanted a different experience to the South. When I viewed the city and campus it just felt 'right'.

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

Absolutely love the place, think it is the best city. The North has so much to offer - it is vibrant and full of energy and culture. Most of all the people are full of acceptance, fun and have a great attitude to life. Enjoy a good night out, of course, and a wonder down the Quayside or Jesmond Dene. Ouseburn is also lovely for something a bit different.

What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?

I am now a converted Northerner! Way prefer it to the South, so much that I would settle long-term here. What has impressed me the most would be how much of a different culture there is between the North and South.

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

Yes, very. Everyone is so friendly and down to earth, There is a good community feel amongst students and people look out for one another.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

The entire experience - the whole university experience is so varied, What stands out for me would be when I was in a sports team and the culture and community that comes with that - just brilliant. I have some great memories from the socials!

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

Local people - they have a knowledge of the city which you can only have from living here for a long time. They inform you of day to day things and 'ways' of local people and the region that you would not be aware of otherwise.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

The lecturers - when you find out how much they have accomplished in their careers it inspires you especially the ones who started out at Northumbria as an undergraduate.

What is your favourite place on campus?

Sports Central - it is so modern and has fantastic facilities. It is also a very sociable, I would often see people I knew.

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

Rowing team - socials and the team community. I have volunteered on welcome week and open days - it is great to be able to pass on your experience and knowledge of Northumbria to others.

What is the best thing about your course?

The small class size - everyone knows each other's name and on a personal level, so you can be sat with anyone in the class and it has a friendly and close-knit feel.

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

University is a tough and testing experience. it is not all highs as you may think. There will be lows as well, but it is an enriching and character building experience.

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 have a good all-rounded skills set as a result of my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, I hope to work in employee selection and work my way up to consultancy, with a view to having my own business.

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

You will love Newcastle, especially if you aren't from the North-East and will have a truly enriching experience at such a fun university.

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

I have developed and grown as an individual. I am far more rounded and complete in myself than before university.

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

Unforgettable, brilliant, unique.

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

Yes.