Where are you from?
Ellington, Northumberland
Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?
The University is geographically closest, I have a husband and children, so it was the easiest to travel to. I was also impressed with the quality of the programme offered and its accreditation. I have family members including my husband who have attended Northumbria and they have all had positive experiences.
What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?
I love visiting National Trust properties, walking in the countryside and of course shopping!
What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?
The amount of traffic in the mornings is quite amazing at times. But the area is so friendly and beautiful.
Did you find Northumbria University welcoming? Was it easy to fit in?
Yes, it was very easy to fit in and the information provided in the early seminars/lectures was of value. The environment is very open and friendly, there's always somebody to ask if you're not sure of anything.
What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?
The academic staff are fantastic, they have very impressive work backgrounds and a wealth of knowledge to share, I feel privileged to be taught by them. The facilities are also excellent, providing a great learning environment.
Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?
Help is everywhere. We have been encouraged to socially network with our cohort which helps, as we can ask each other and support those who need it. The librarians are extremely helpful. All staff that I have had contact with have been approachable and very knowledgeable.
Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?
The academic staff. The amount of experience and the varied areas that they have worked in shows how far you can go and what it is possible to achieve. Not only are they highly qualified practitioners but have amazing academic achievements too.
What is your favourite place on campus?
The clinical skills department is fantastic. I also like the students union.
Have you joined any sports teams, clubs or been involved in any volunteer projects? Tells us about the highlights?
I used the fayre to join the Royal College of Nursing, which is a fantastic resource and support. I also joined the NUS, great discounts.
What is the best thing about your course?
The way the course is structured, we get a lot of hands on experience and placements too as well as academic study. I like to be able to put the theory into practice. The staff are fantastic and incredibly knowledgeable. My cohort is becoming a good team and very supportive.
What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?
Ask questions! Be open and honest. No question is a stupid question. Keep your patient and yourself safe.
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?
Become a registered nurse. Following registration and a couple of years experience, I'm hoping my placements will show me which area I'd like to specialise in and hopefully work towards becoming a nurse practitioner.
Have you worked on any projects with businesses or been on a placement? What were your most memorable experiences?
My placements begin on the 7th of July.
If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?
Do it! The University is a brilliant place to study in a supportive environment.
How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle (e.g. confidence)?
My confidence is slowly growing and I feel fine now navigating the different areas and where to find things. I feel that my opinion is valued in discussions. I am very proud to be a student at Northumbria, I love telling people what am doing.
If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?
Educational, Understanding, Welcoming
Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?
Definitely!
