Veronica de Gongora

BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Marketing

Where are you from?

Madrid, Spain

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I loved the city for a start, the facilities really impressed me and encouraged me to want to study here and also It’s one of the few fashion degrees in the country that offer a full year in industry which I think will benefit any student who does it in their future.

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

It’s a beautiful city with very friendly people, there is a great nightlife and lots to do! Favourite thing to do on a weekend is probably visiting Tynemouth and going for fish and chips by the beach

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

It doesn’t rain as much as I thought it would!

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

I felt at home and made very good friends quickly, everyone is open minded and it’s easy to find a close group of friends and fit in.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

I have met great people who I know will be friends for life.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

Our tutors are very helpful and understanding in terms of studies and this really helps when you’re stressing out over deadlines, specially when you are so far away from home.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

As a design student I think that a lot of inspiration comes from your course mates, I love having a look at what other people are doing and what their different takes on a project are.

What is your favourite place on campus?

Probably the 4th floor in the Design Building, it’s a great place to work, I love how much light there is!

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

First year ive been trying to not get involved in too many things and just try to settle down. I have to balance my uni work, with a part time job. But I have joined the gym!

What is the best thing about your course?

It’s very individual, tutors don’t tell you what to do or how to do things in specific ways, they let you find your own way and style. I think that’s how you truly learn and improve.

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

Making mistakes isn’t a bad thing! You learn from them

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?

At the moment the future seems quite far, so I’m focusing on getting good grades on my final projects, putting together a good portfolio and hopefully get a good placement next year!

Have you worked on any projects with businesses or been on a placement? What were your most memorable experiences?

Not yet, we will go on placement next year Jan 2016 until Decemeber 2016

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

There is a London and Paris trip in a few weeks which im very excited about as it will be during Paris Fashion Week. I can’t wait!

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

I have become more sociable, meeting different types of people and learning to not stick to one group of friends. It’s much more interesting to meet those people who are different to you, you learn so much!