Bridget Harris

What's it like to study at Northumbria? 

Studying at Northumbria has been a really positive experience for me. One of the things I've appreciated most is the amount of support that's available when you're struggling, whether that's academically or personally. There are always people willing to help, and I've found that the university genuinely wants students to succeed. Knowing that support is there when you need it makes a huge difference and creates a welcoming environment to learn in. 

Best thing about studying Sport and Exercise Science 

The best thing about my course is the passion that the lecturers have for the subject. Their enthusiasm is obvious in every lecture and practical session, and it motivates you to engage with the content and get involved. Seeing how passionate they are about Sport and Exercise Science has helped maintain my own passion for the subject and encouraged me to push myself further. 

Favourite thing to do on campus / community 

One of my favourite things to do on campus is watching the Six Nations at Habita with friends. It's a great atmosphere and a good way to relax outside of studying. In terms of feeling part of a wider university community, I haven't been as involved as I could have been because I have a lot of commitments in and outside of university, and I'm usually quite busy. Most of the time, I'm on campus for classes and then heading elsewhere, but whenever I have been involved in events or activities, everyone has been welcoming and friendly. 

Course & career goals / industry links 

The course provides opportunities to gain valuable real-world experience through placements, which is incredibly beneficial for future career development. What I particularly like is that we're given the flexibility to choose placements that align with our own interests and career aspirations. The course also has strong links with industry, helping students build professional experience, make connections and develop skills that are directly relevant to employment after graduation. 

A time you realised you were capable of more 

I realised I was capable of more than I initially thought once I started submitting assessments and receiving feedback. Before starting university, I wasn't sure how well I would adapt to being back in education. However, as I progressed through the course, I found that I really enjoyed learning again and was achieving results that exceeded my expectations. That experience gave me a lot more confidence in my abilities and showed me that I was capable of more than I had given myself credit for. 

Support that boosted confidence / ambition 

The support available through Ask4Help, my personal tutor and module leaders has made the biggest difference to my confidence. Knowing exactly where to go when I needed advice or support was incredibly reassuring. Throughout my time at Northumbria, these people have consistently encouraged me, helped me overcome challenges and pushed me to believe in my own abilities. Their support has played a huge role in helping me grow both academically and personally. 

Advice for someone considering Northumbria 

I'd say go for it. It's better to try something and learn from the experience than wonder what might have happened if you hadn't. Northumbria is a great university with excellent courses and so many opportunities available to students. 

My biggest piece of advice would be to get involved wherever you can, make connections, network with people and take advantage of everything that's on offer. The relationships and experiences you gain can have a real impact on your future career and personal development. 

You're only young once, and university is one of the few times in life where you can try new things, meet people from all kinds of backgrounds and push yourself outside your comfort zone. When else are you going to be young enough to do the silly things, take chances and make memories you'll look back on years later? Make the most of it while you can.