Ryan Parker

Where are you from?

York  

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

It provided me with the best opportunities for my course, offering several links to huge global companies. 

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

Great city, everything is within a 15 minute walk from the Northumbria student halls. 

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

Very easy to find lots of other students with similar interests to yourself, takes no time at all to fit in with a completely new set of friends. 

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

The staff are very friendly, the university offers complete access at very flexible times, making it a lot easier to make deadlines without problems. 

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?    

Lecturers are very helpful with any problems you may have. Simply send them an email and they'll get back to you within hours with the answer. 

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

Hearing the success stories of previous students really puts everything into perspective. It could be me next with a little extra work! 

What is your favourite place on campus?

Habita (the main bar of the Students Union). Great prices, great atmosphere, great place to socialise between or after lectures. 

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

I have taken part in residential trips organised by the university. Gave me the chance to take part in various activities such as canoeing and rock climbing, all free of charge. Also just gives you a nice break from the normal university routine. 

What is the best thing about your course?

Being part of the Business School gives me literally hundreds of opportunities to meet potential employers from multi national companies. Really gives you a head start over other students from different universities. 

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

Take a good look in the City Campus Library from day one! It took me until after Christmas to realise just how much they have to offer you and to help you with any assignment or exam. It is completely underrated! 

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 am in the process of starting my own business, and will look to get it up and running whilst at university, and expand it in the future. Resources at the Business School really can help with this, as well as the lecturers. 

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

Many opportunities have been provided, but I am yet to experience them fully. 

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

Residential for three days in Kielder forest. Was a activity holiday where I got to meet new people with similar interests and got to experience some unbelievable activities such as rock climbing, archery and clay pigeon shooting! 

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

Don't think about studying here, it is a must, no thoughts needed! Great university, great facilities, great city. Come to Northumbria! #teamnorthumbria 

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

I have gained a lot of confidence in new situations, as well as independence through having to live away from home. 

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

Memorable, exciting, unbelievable!

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?     

100% yes!