Rosie McDairmant

What appealed to you about Northumbria University?

I am originally from Carlisle, which is about an hour and a half train journey from Newcastle. Newcastle is a much bigger place than my hometown and the nightlife and shops are a lot better. When I came to the open day I knew straight away I wanted to come to Northumbria.

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

During school I really enjoyed biology so I wanted to do a course that involved this. I looked at both Human Biosciences and Biomedical sciences, these are similar degrees but I preferred the outline of Human Biosciences, as there is more flexibility surrounding the choice of modules and also it includes a nutrition module, which I thought would be interesting.

What qualifications did you have?

I applied through UCAS with three A-levels in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology.

How did you feel during your first week at Northumbria?

At first I was nervous but the University has a very welcoming atmosphere and in the first week you meet lots of new people and there is so much going that my nerves quickly disappeared.

What do you like most about the course?

I like the variety of subjects that are covered and also the lab work is interesting and it’s nice to do something different from lectures.

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

One piece of work I completed recently was a write up for a lab. I carried out a practical looking at blood alcohol levels using a spectrophotometer. After the lab I had to analyse the results and use them to answer a number of questions.

How do you get on with your tutors?

The tutors are very approachable and willing to give any help they can. Everyone is given a guidance tutor at the beginning of first year who you can talk to about any problems you’re having, which is good.

Do you have the opportunity for any work placements during your course?

Yes, my course is a sandwich degree so there is an option to do a year in an NHS or industrial laboratory in third year.

What do you do when you’re not studying?

I enjoy spending time with my friends going to the cinema, going for food or taking advantage of the many shops in Newcastle!

What’s your accommodation like?

I live in a shared house in Sandyford, which is only a short walk from campus.

What would you like to do when you graduate?

I’m not sure what I want to do when I graduate but I feel that my course is a good basis for further study.

Have you used Student Services during your course?

I haven’t needed to use student services so far in my study but in my final year it would be useful to discuss further education or career options.

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

In general I would say try to be organised and not to leave work to the last minute. Also don’t be too nervous everyone is in the same position so just try and enjoy yourself.

What three words would you use to describe your time at Northumbria?

Challenging, enjoyable and interesting.