Yi Lim

What appealed to you about Northumbria University / studying in Newcastle?

I got to know about Northumbria University from the University Placement Office in INTI University College at Malaysia. Northumbria is one of the INTI’s partner universities, where we can complete our final year of study. Besides, the education exhibition in INTI also provided me with more information about the university. Northumbria was also recommended to me as an excellent university and I decided to come over here to finish my final year of study.

What was it about the course / subject area that particularly appealed?

The opportunity to get involved in the final year research project drew my attention. The laboratory facilities with advanced technologies and equipment could improve my practical skills. The ways to carry out a research project might be useful for me in the future.

How did you feel during your first week at Northumbria?

During the first week, I hadn’t adapted to the new environment over here. Thus, I started to explore the university, as well as attending the induction which helped give more information and I found that Northumbria is really a great campus.

What do you like most about the course?

The biology system of living organisms - how they survive, how they replicate and the various mechanisms, metabolisms or others distinct pathways that are needed, made me curious and I wanted to know about it. In this advanced technology era, some modification and research can help to improve human life.

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

My final year research project is the cloning of the foldase protein PrsA from Streptococcus pyogenes into E.coli and how this is subsequently characterised. I am proud because I have this opportunity to gain lots of practical skills which might be useful in my future. The university facilities in the laboratory are great and advanced. By using these facilities, I am able to conduct my project in a nice and good condition.

What do you do when you’re not studying?

During my free time, I like to watch a drama series or movie, listen to music and also do cooking. Sometimes, I followed the One Planet to visit other places in UK such as Durham. I did work as a waitress in a Japanese teppanyaki restaurant in the city during my semester break. There was a Skiing and Fun Day, organised by BAAC that filled up my free time too.

What’s your accommodation like?

I am staying in University accommodation,  Lovaine Flats. I am sharing the flats with another six students. We all come from different countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, China, Thailand and Nigeria. I have a great time living here and also find out about the different cultures of their countries.

What do you like/dislike about Newcastle?

I love Newcastle very much. It is well situated. The University is very close to the city. It is very convenient for us to buy anything in the town or go out for a meal. The transportation is convenient as well and we can travel to other places easily, either by bus, metro or even taxi. There are a variety of shops located in Northumberland Street.

What would you like to do when you graduate?

It would be great if I was able to get a job over here. I’m still deciding about my future, either working or furthering my study in a Master’s degree. I would like to be a nutritionist later on. During the free time prior to the graduation, I will travel around the UK and Europe.

How do you get on with your tutors?

They are friendly, excellent and nice. When I was facing problems in my studies, research project or the assignments, they provided me with a lot of useful information and advice. Listening to this advice always brought me back on track.

Do you have any advice for anyone applying for your course, or for university in general?

Northumbria University is really a nice campus that can colour your university life with lots of fun and experience. The facilities in the campus are wonderful such as the 24 hour library, students’ union and also the wonderful sports centre. I’m sure that everyone would enjoy their studies over here.