Kennisha Gilbert

What appealed to you about Northumbria University / studying in Newcastle?

It was a chance to experience something new away from my comfort zone. I wanted to challenge myself and I was right, Northumbria is a great place to challenge yourself. Intellectual challenge in such a beautiful city. Northumbria and Newcastle. Who could resist?

What was it about the course / subject area that particularly appealed?

The sciences have always been a source of fascination for me; and fortunately I’m good at them. My interest in science has led me to pursue the study of medicine. I have always hoped that I would find a profession that I would enjoy and I think I am going to find that with medicine.

What qualifications did you have?

I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania in the United States.

How did you feel during your first week at Northumbria?

I was a bit homesick at first but everyone was so friendly and helpful that it really helped to calm my nerves and before I knew it I had new friends and was so comfortable that I forgot to be homesick.

What do you like most about the course?

The thing I like most about my course is firstly that I enjoy it immensely; secondly this course takes me closer to finally be able to practice medicine, and that is my ultimate goal.

Can you give an example of a piece of work you’ve been involved with recently and what it involves?

The course has been really hard so far. It takes a lot of time, effort and dedication but all of that is much easier to do if you enjoy it or at least learn to enjoy it. There are great people and facilities here at Northumbria to help every student earn the best possible grade, make sure you use them.

What do you do when you’re not studying?

Spare time is a scarcity but when I have free time I usually head out shopping in Newcastle City during the day. In the evenings especially on weekends I sometimes catch a movie at the Empire Cinema at The Gate.

What’s your accommodation like?

I live at Kirkley Lodge in Gosforth. It is a student lodge and there are both two bedroom and three bedroom flats. The flats are well kept and maintained by weekly cleaning service; and since we are all students at the flat we know how to study and how to party.

What would you like to do when you graduate?

Upon graduation I intend to begin the second year of my Basic Science course at St. George’s University in Grenada; ultimately I intend to become an Obstetrician.

Any advice for fellow international students travelling to the UK?

Travelling to the UK can be hassle free if you remember a few things. Keep all travel and immigration documents with you at all times and make sure you have all required documents. You are probably going to be crossing time zones so try and get rest before, during and after your travels it is really hard to concentrate in class when you are jet lagged. If you do not know ask, most people are friendly and will try to help. Keep an open mind there may be things that are done differently in the UK than what you are accustomed to. Try to make new friends when you get here. Ask for help when you need it.

Do you have any advice for anyone applying for your course, or for university in general?

Northumbria University is a great place to study. Their partnership with St. George’s University to offer the Diploma in Medical Sciences has enormous potential for the students enrolled in the course. Before you choose a course make sure it is something you will enjoy. It is really hard to stay motivated in a course that isn’t enjoyable. Good Luck!