Where are you from?
Cumbria
Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?
I always wanted to attend a University in a city, and have always loved Newcastle. The students and staff all made me feel extremely welcome on the Open Days, and everyone was really friendly! One of the main things that attracted me to this Univeristy was the success and academic achievements of the department I was going to be studying. It was made clear to me that there was always help and resources available, which I think is really important when starting University, as the transition can be really scary at first.
What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?
Newcastle is a vibrant City, full of plenty of friendly people and lots of things to do! There is never nothing to do, whether you prefer cultural experiences, Shopping or nights out with your friends. The city offers a great nightlife, with plenty of different clubs catering to different music scenes. Whatever you like to do, nothing is more than a Metro ride away.
Did you find Northumbria University welcoming? Was it easy to fit in?
Northumbria University was very welcoming! Plenty of staff and current students where on hand to help on moving in day, making the day much more comfortable. There was plenty of ways to meet people, you get through in at the deep end moving in to a house with people you have never met, but as well as this there are people on your course who will probably share the same interests as you, and Welcome Week! All of these helped me to fit in and make loads of new friends.
What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?
Definitely the independence. Living away from home has helped me in planning and managing my time. It has also made me realise how far money actually goes- I am now a lot more careful with my loans!
Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?
Probably my lecturers, they are always there to help you with any queries about the course you are studying and most will go the extra mile if I am unsure about any aspect of University life, to make sure I know what I am doing.
What is the best thing about your course?
The support that's available and the amount of help and resources available for students.
What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?
Organising my time. Not leaving assignments until last minute, because everyone has the same idea and the library is always full!
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?
In the future I would really like to teach English to speakers of other languages. Studying TESOL as part of my course has really helped me understand what's involved in teaching English, and how time consuming it can be.
If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?
Definitely come and see what the University has to offer. I was unsure about even attending Uni, but looking around Northumbria and seeing the facilities completely changed my mind.
How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle (e.g. confidence)?
I have always had issues with confidence, but coming to University and being in a situation where I had to make new friends has helped me become more confident in myself and around others, which I'm really happy about.
Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?
Definitely!
