Nadiah Lim

Psychology

Where are you from?

Singapore

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I’ve always wanted to study abroad – especially within the European continent so the UK was an obvious choice. I chose to study Psychology at Northumbria because it was accredited by the BPS and the modules and options offered were all interesting and very much what I am interested in. Furthermore, previous students have given really good feedback about the course.

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

Newcastle is my home away from home. I’ve been to many cities but Newcastle is my favourite. It’s compact so you’re able to walk or cycle everywhere and there are many activities to fill up your time with. I enjoy café hopping within Heaton and the city center. The multicultural district of Fenham has an amazing array of food places as well.

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

The affordable cost of living and the renowned friendliness of the Geordies! The North East of England is such a gem – the coast, the sights of Northumberland, the rich history and architecture, castles, beautiful countryside… I could go on forever.

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

It’s a welcoming university but it doesn’t mean that it was easy to fit in. I’m tee-total and Newcastle has a lively nightlife that I’m just not keen on so I had to find other ways to make friends. The wide selection of sports clubs and societies within Northumbria has certainly provided that.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

I love that there are so many international students at Northumbria and you get to meet people from various walks of life. It’s such an eye opener – had I studied in Singapore, I would have missed out on such experiences.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

Probably my friend Dale. I was having some trouble settling in and he’s the first local friend I’ve made at uni and he even invited me to spend Christmas with his family in 2013. Dale’s hospitality has helped me through a difficult first semester.

What is your favourite place on campus?

Probably Habita for a quick cuppa in between lectures or the Student’s Union for a power nap!

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

I’ve joined MMA and the Public Speaking Society. PSS may sound a tad unappealing but that’s where I’ve met many of my closest friends and you will not find a more welcoming bunch of people anywhere else. MMA is brilliant – it challenges every aspect of mind and body and I always feel like I could handle anything after a training session.

What is the best thing about your course?

The lecturers are very engaging, approachable and they definitely know their stuff.

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

I’ve learnt that you can’t expect yourself to fit in or have loads of friends right away - sometimes you just need to get past your own self-consciousness and make the effort to get out of your comfort zone. It’s tough but so worth it.

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 hope to eventually be a clinical psychologist or conduct research within that area of interest. Research is a big part of psychology so the course has made sure that those research skills has been instilled in us. Knowledge of statistics and research makes you more aware and critical of all the scientific claims that you hear on the media or from people. I’ve also improved my scientific writing.

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

They should come with an open mind and heart, and the courage to step out of their comfort zone. I highly recommend joining a club or society within the university.