Max Giles

Where are you from?

Sheffield

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I wanted to move away from home for University and I loved the city and University when I came to visit on an Open Day.

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

The buildings and history of the town is incredible and I love all the modern touches like the sage, the millennium bridge, all the activities to do in newcastle and how both historic and modern culture come together in this city.

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

The size of the city centre and the large number of clubs, bars and restaurants available. I didn't fully realise the scale of everything that Newcastle has to offer.

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

Yes, I believe that Northumbria University accommodation was the best way to meet new friends potentially for life.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

Meeting my friends and living away from home and gaining more independence.

What is your favourite place on campus?

The Business School. I think its a fantastic looking building with all the facilities i need and its a happy workplace environment.

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

Not this year, but next year I want to join the Snowsports Society because after joining them on certain events i found it to be really fun and enjoyable. I also love to snowboard.

What is the best thing about your course?

It involves a lot of group work which is essential for a good work ethic and is the best way to get to know people on your course better, as well as ensuring more available support if ever you need it.

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

Don't judge people on a first meet and make sure you get to know people properly before accepting or dismissing them as friends. Also, put more effort into your friends and your relationships will come off better for it.

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?

Some kind of design and building with property development. Social skills will be the most useful as people will always need support in their pursuits.

Have you taken up any opportunities to travel with your current course/undertake field trips? If so, please tell us about them.

No, although I have been out and met up with a few course friends to relax and enjoy their company.

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

Definitely choose northumbria, but also keep in mind that you are going to be at university, so make sure that the course you will enrol on is actually something you want to do and think you will enjoy doing before you jump to the conclusion that you just want to move out and live in Newcastle.

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

More confident definitely, and much more independent.

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

Finishes too quickly.

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

Definitely!