Katherine Hallam

Where are you from?

York

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I have always loved Newcastle since I moved away from the city when I was young. The University offered a sandwich course in an area of interest to me and I loved the feel of the campus when I went to look round.

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

I enjoy going to the coast and getting fish and chips. Visiting the Quayside on a sunny day with friends and getting a cocktail, and going to the petting zoo in Jesmond Dene like when I was a little girl. Newcastle is so friendly, fun and northern!!

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

It hasn't rained as much as I thought it would and I'm impressed by how many parks and green areas there are.

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

So welcoming! Really easy to fit in, I was so lucky with my housemates in first year we had such a fun time. The societies that we have given a go have been so great and all the staff go above and beyond to help.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

Meeting like minded people who I'll hopefully be friends with for a very long time and the social events that the University put on to bring students together

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

During my placement year, the placements office at NBS have been so helpful particularly as they have been going through significant organisational change. They have taken so much time out to help me with painful council tax issues.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

My HR tutor (Dorothy) is insightful and has a unique way of looking at things. I really enjoy hearing about her personal experiences at work and during her travels too, she inspired me to do more so I can develop myself and apply my learning in the real world.

What is your favourite place on campus?

Walking between the Ellison Buildings where there are statues and square trees reminds me of Fresher's Week, I love seeing the rabbits there too!

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

I was involved in Welcome Week in my second year which was so much fun. My highlights include the team building days, building towers and egg cable cars. Teaching the freshers the Northumbria chants was also great.

What is the best thing about your course?

The ability to apply your learning in a placement year and the help you receive building your CV and applications.

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

I am developing my resilience as I've come across many strong minded characters, especially on placement. Also I've learnt to prioritise my work more and not to get involved in too much!

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?

Im not entirely sure but I know I would like to help others learn and develop themselves. I have learnt that true team work and knowing how to engage and encourage others can be really crucial to the success of a project and also that models and theories CAN be applied and CAN be surprisingly interesting.

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

Look into the opportunities that the University and surrounding area has to offer and emerge yourself in a new activity.

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

I have become more accepting and aware of different people who I may not have normally spoken to. I have learnt to not judge someone by their appearance and I have changed my attitude towards growing up, I want to stay young forever and explore as many opportunities as possible whilst I still can.

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

Development, Variety, Hilarious!

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

Yes!