Ryan Martin

Where are you from?

Northern Ireland 

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I chose Northumbria as it has a very well established business school with very high graduate job rates. 

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

I think that Newcastle is a wonderful city with lots to do. It is relatively small like Belfast but has everything you need from eateries to the overall shopping experience. I think that the Metro system that Newcastle operates is an excellent way to travel about the city and has been particularly helpful when I have to go to Bank Foot to attend rugby. 

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

How friendly every one in Newcastle really is. It is a very enjoyable city to live and study in. 

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

It was particularly easy to settle in with Freshers Week and a variety of welcome lectures to meet course mates. 

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

Everything! It's been the best experience of my life to date. 

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

My brother who is in the year above me. He has helped me settle in and showed me around the campus to familiarise myself with the university. 

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

I think the most inspiring person would have to be myself to achieve the highest possible discipline in my degree. 

What is your favourite place on campus?

The Business School - it's 24 hour and has a variety of places you can either work or chill. They have various bean bags which makes group work not only fun but comfortable! 

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

I have been on a sports scholarships for the past two years. Playing rugby has enabled me to meet a range of new friends. As well as playing the rugby matches on a Wednesday, the social afterwards always tends to be great. 

What is the best thing about your course?

How helpful all the programme leaders have been when I have had a question or query. 

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

Always to give yourself enough time to do assignments as the workload catches up quick as the deadline looms. This will allow you to maintain a healthy work and leisure balance. 

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 have improved my analytical and presentational skills which I think will benefit me in my career life. These skills will be applied in scenarios such as sales and marketing which is my passion. 

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

I chose not to undertake a placement and it has been a massive regret. 

Have you taken up any opportunities to travel with your current course/undertake field trips? If so, please tell us about them.

No, but this has been one of my main regrets in my course there were no opportunities to explore how different cultures operate. This would be the only improvement I would make to my course at Northumbria. 

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

Definitely do a placement as I think that three years at university is not enough and it goes too quick. I believe that the experience you gain through placements will differentiate you from the crowd when applying for jobs. 

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

I think that I have grown in every aspect since joining. Northumbria throw you in at the deep end to help you prepare for life on the outside of learning. These tasks such as presentations have greatly improved my leadership and public speaking skills which can be applied to future job roles. 

If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?

Interactive, enjoyable, friendly! 

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

Yes, definitely and I already have!