Lilly Hoyland

What appealed to you about studying in Newcastle?

I used to work with a Geordie back in Sheffield and he used to sing the praises of Newcastle’s culture, lifestyle, locals, nightlife, passion, and so I decided from the moment I opened the UCAS list that Newcastle was definitely the area for me!

What was it about the subject area that attracted you?

After undertaking my Year 10 work experience with the National Blood Service, I decided that this was the avenue I wanted to follow. I loved the idea that I could find out what was wrong with people, without even meeting them!

What do you like most about the course?

I like the fact that it offers a nice equal balance between lab work and theory and I also like the fact that there is the offer of an applied version of my course, which offers invaluable experience in the hospital setting.

Can you give an example of a piece of work you’ve been involved in?

Currently, I am working on my final year dissertation project, which involves the neuroscience surrounding incontinence. It involves researching past studies into this area, and eventually I hope to use immunocytochemistry to demonstrate the presence (or lack of) certain receptors in the spinal cord. This is not an easy course, but if you are willing to put the effort in, the rewards are phenomenal.

How did you feel during your first week at Northumbria?

I must admit I was utterly petrified, but once I’d settled into my halls, and got the guts up to go to ‘Get Ya’Skates On’ at the Students’ Union, I found the Welcome team really helpful and patient and they made me feel at home straight away!

What would you like to do when you graduate?

I hope to do a Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing, to add yet another string to my bow!