Tahnee Holtom

Spanish with Business

Where are you from?

Huddersfield

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I wanted to be in a city, preferably in the North. After attending the Open Day and meeting with the teaching staff, I knew this would be a well suited course for me.

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

I love living in Newcastle and I am going o miss it so much when I graduate. This city has so much to offer with a wide variety of activities that are easily accessible and affordable. I enjoy going to the beach just fifteen minutes away and the nightlife is pretty awesome too!

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

I think I was surprised by how well I fitted in here, everyone in Newcastle is really friendly and I have never felt in danger here. Newcastle is a friendly and safe environment.

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

For me, yes!! My course is quite small so we got to know each other and the staff really quickly. Everyone was in the same boat which made introducing ourselves and make friends much easier, I have met some of my best friends for life here.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

I would say the people I have met, the support I have been given along the way and what I have achieved both personally and academically.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

My Tutor, Carlos, has been excellent, he is always there to give advice and help when we are feeling stressed. And student finance have been a massive help too!

What is your favourite place on campus?

My favorite place on campus is the library, I have spend most of my final year in there. The resources are excellent and without that place I wouldn't be passing my degree! I also love that in practically every building there is a discounted Starbucks!

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

I played for Team Northumbria Netball Team and my highlight was wining back the Stan Calvert Cup in my final year without a doubt!

What is the best thing about your course?

I like the fact my course is small, it means I know everybody and the classes can be interactive which has allowed my confidence to grow.

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

The most valuable thing I have learnt is to never give up, despite how hard things seem I have always come through the other side. I also learnt that anything can be done with proper time management and planning, no matter how big.

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 am hoping to become a buyer within the Fast Moving Consumer Goods industry, I think the knowledge I have gained from the business side of my degree has helped build a great foundation for me to build on in the working world!

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

I spent my whole third year abroad in Spain, it was an excellent opportunity and unforgettable. I had the chance to work, learn and travel and I visited some amazing places in Spain.

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

DO IT!!! University isn't for everyone, but if you are willing to put the effort in then you will reap the rewards and personally I could think of a better place to study. Northumbria is modern, central and can give you the support and resources you need.

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

I have changed considerably since I started here in 2010. I am now a resilient, confident, focused and driven person. My CV and career prospect are excellent and I am proud of myself and what I have achieved.