Amelia Hellawell

Where are you from?

Huddersfield

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I chose Northumbria University as they offered me the best modules in my course, English Language Studies and this would help me for the future and with possible job opportunities. I also really like the University, as it is warm and welcoming and the people are keen to help you. The city was also a contributing factor, as it is a lively city with plenty of things to do.

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

Newcastle, as a city, is amazing. It offers everything that you look for in a city. There are a wide variety of shops and restaurants and many other places where you can visit which suits you as a person. Everything is in close reach of each other so everywhere is accessible. And of course, the nights out are amazing and they never disappoint. 

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

It has surprised me how I haven't got home sick, as everyone here is lovely and comforting. And the centre of Newcastle has impressed me, as there so many things you can do and places to visit, on a day and a night.

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

I found it reasonably easy to fit in, as I was welcomed into the university with open arms. And the staff were very encouraging and engaging.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

The thing I have enjoyed the most is my course. You get given so many opportunities in order to succeed within yourself, as they want you to do well. For example, I was given the opportunity to be the course representative so I can give back all the help that was given to me. 

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

My course leader, both Mimi Huang and Amanda Patten have been amazing and very supportive. They have helped me through my time at Northumbria and have always been there for me and given me opportunities that I have always wished for. 

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

My course leader, Amanda Patten, inspires me as I can look up to her and want to have a career like her in the future. She is very helpful and a great lecturer and course leader.

What is your favourite place on campus?

I spend most of my time in Lipman building as that is where my classes are located which has a cafe social area and computers which you can do work. Also, the library is a nice environment to be in, both the social areas and the quiet zones and the environment encourages you to learn. The student union is a lovely place to be as they are events there and also is a nice surrounding. 

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

I volunteer for the role of course representative and I enjoy this as I get to meet different members of staff and try to make the course even better for the current and upcoming students. I have also done welcome week, where I welcomed, moved in and gave tours of the University to the new students. I like doing this as it was very nice being welcomed in myself when I first came into university. It made the settling in so much easier. I have also done the applicant visit days where I represented English Language, and I loved doing this as I enjoy sharing my passion to other students who would also being doing the same course and helping them if they have any enquiries about the course. 

What is the best thing about your course?

I love the variety of modules available, which widens the scope of what I am studying. It also directs me into different directions which I could take for a future job. 

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

That no matter what there is always someone there to help and listen to you.

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 want to be a teacher and from being course rep I have had a lot of responsibility in helping others and resolving situations which will help me in a teacher role for the future. Also I now volunteer as a teaching assistant in a German class, which I love as I can start doing the thing I love. 

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

The first semester of my second year, I went on an ERASMUS exchange to Germany, where I carried on with my course, experienced the culture and carried on with my German language skills and I also gained a lot of independency and skills. 

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

If you look at the course and think that that’s what you want to do, then you'll definitely enjoy studying it at Northumbria University, as it has the whole package. 

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

I think I have become a lot more mature and independent with learning and thinking for myself and also by living on my own. I am a lot more confident with speaking in front of people from presentations and from my role as course rep. 

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

Interesting, enjoyable and friendly!

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

Yes, definitely!