Calam Nelson

Where are you from?

Ferryhill, County Durham

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

The Newcastle Business School at Northumbria is renowned for the quality of teaching and university life plus, I wanted to stay in the region so it was a perfect place to study.

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

Newcastle is an amazing city - there is so much to do whatever your hobby is. I love food and drink and Newcastle has an array of different bars and restaurants that serve a variety of different cuisines. Shopping is also a bonus especially with the proximity to the MetroCentre.

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

Everybody at the university is so friendly and are interested in getting to know you along with being academic tutors and fellow students. The atmosphere is always buzzing and the staff are on hand to help you with anything that you may have any issues with.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

The uniqueness of the EBM course is the most enjoyable part. I love being in the purpose built business space and being part of a relatively new course to the UK. Being able to set up my own business yet still have academic work is the perfect combination for me and I have had the privilege to meet some truly inspiring people.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

All of the coaches and staff that work within the EBM programme are all equally on hand to help you with anything. The staff are extremely supportive and even if they are not your designated coach, they will go out of their way to ensure that your needs are met. My coach, Lucy Hatt (Programme Leader), has helped nurture our team from the very start and will continue to help with the practical and theoretical approaches to business.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

All of the staff and alumni at the university are so inspirational as they come from many different backgrounds and have had such different experiences in life. Nina Jussila has already been through this form of study in Finland so she is incredibly inspirational to show us that we can create a profitable business whilst achieving high academic grades.

What is your favourite place on campus?

This has undoubtedly got to be the Northern Design Centre. Having the chance to work in purpose built offices and being the only undergraduate students there is unreal. We have amazing facilities and recreational areas to socialise with fellow students so we can work hard and play hard!

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?

Upon graduation, I intend to apply for a graduate scheme in leadership with British Airways. I am extremely passionate about the aviation sector and I believe that this form of study will truly show me what it is like to work within a team, highlighting strengths and weaknesses whilst identifying how to overcome these. My degree will shape my future and although the EBM programme promotes entrepreneurship, I hope to gain this traits and become and intrapreneur.

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

This is a great opportunity to have so make sure that you have personal motivation to be successful and to work hard!

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

Inspirational, successful and sociable!

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

Of course - I already have!