Jemma Graham

Communication and Public Relations

Where are you from?

York

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I had heard that it was a good University and a lot of my friends were already there and loved it. A lot of people recommended Northumbria when I was applying to univeristies.

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

I love Newcastle because there are so many things to do! It's close to beaches that are easily accessible, there are plenty of things to do in the city centre and the Metrocentre is close which is brilliant too.

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

I loved that in first year everything is just on your door step: your halls, the university itself, city centre and the station are all nearby so it's good for you to get around to the places you need to.

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

Yes it was. I think the Welcome Week team are a very vital part of making the Freshers feel welcome. There are always older students in halls making you feel welcome and answering any questions which is a big help.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

I have enjoyed how everyone is so friendly and approachable - both students and staff. I feel like there are a lot of people I could talk to if I needed to.

What is your favourite place on campus?

My favourite place is Habita. It's a great place to socialize whether it's during the day or the evening. I often go there for the quiz and karaoke.

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

I am on the Volunteer Northumbria committee and I am going to be on it next year too. I love it because I have made lots of new friends and I have got a lot more skills to add to my CV now!

What is the best thing about your course?

I like that my course is very broad. It's quite creative, so for some modules I'm doing design and creative work and for others it's essays. I don't have any exams which I definitely prefer.

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

I have learnt to spread assignments out and not leave work til the last minute. But if you do that, the library is open 24/7 which is very helpful!

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 don't know what exactly I want to do in future but I know that I have learnt and developed lots of skills by working on the Volunteering committee and from my course.

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 the London RAG Raid in February. It was raising money for Dementia UK, there were 16 of us that went down and it was a brilliant experience and I will definitely want to do it again next year!

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

Northumbria is a fantastic place to come and study. Everyone is very friendly, there are loads of opportunities to get involved with. I am so glad that I came here and couldn't imagine being at another university. I feel lucky to be part of Northumbria University.

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

I have definitely grown in confidence since coming to Northumbria because I have been involved with a lot of extra curricular activities and made a lot of friends that way.