Where are you from?
As far away from Newcastle as you could get - Salisbury!
Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?
I enjoyed the option of a placement year within my course, and that my course was based on city campus, as being a country girl I wanted a change to live in a big city.
What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?
Newcastle and the region is a great place to live in, with a great young person and student feel. Not only is the nightlife great, but there are always new things to see and do. Even over the four years I have been living here I have seen so many things change and develop and I'm sure this will continue for years to come.
What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?
I love living in Newcastle because the people here are so friendly!
Did you find Northumbria University welcoming? Was it easy to fit in?
It was very easy to fit into Northumbria University with the large range of social activities and socities to join.
What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?
Not only was it the furthest place from home, it also meant I had to make a massive step into the world of independence, which in hindsight was the best thing to do!
Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?
All lecturers have been very helpful during my four years at university. In my final year my point of contact was Dr Nikos Mavroudis, who was my dissertation tutor. I was probably in his office about 3 times a week, but he still managed to keep patient with all my questions and worries!
Have you joined any sports teams, clubs or been involved in any volunteer projects? Tells us about the highlights?
I joined the dance society in my second year of university and have taken part in dance socials, shows and competitions. This year I was voted in as a competition organiser within the dance committee, in which I organised a team of 30 dancers. We visited different cities around the country, competing and winning trophies.
What is the best thing about your course?
The practical aspect mixed with the tutorials makes it a very hands-on course, which therefore makes the learning environment more enjoyable.
What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?
Be organised! Make sure you are on top of deadlines, as there can be times where everything comes at once.
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 currently in the process of applying for PhDs at other universities around the country, focusing on Food Science. During my time here I really enjoyed working in the laboraties, and I also enjoyed the more science based modules and aspect of the course. Furthermore during my final year writing my dissertation I realised I enjoyed the responsibility of having my own project and trying to tackle problems.
Have you worked on any projects with businesses or been on a placement? What were your most memorable experiences?
I was on placement for my third year, based in Leicester for a food company called Samworth Brothers. During this placement I got to work in two separate companies with two different job roles. This gave me a broad range of skills and cemented in my mind the area of work I would like to go into in the future. I would suggest to everyone to do a placement year, as you learn so much from it, making yourself not only very employable, but also finding what you do and don't enjoy doing.
If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?
Make the most of it! In my first year I didn't join any societies as I thought I didn't have enough time! Looking back now in my final year I had plenty of time. I regret not joining up to something in my first year, as well as not joining more than one society.
How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle (e.g. confidence)?
My confidence is one of the main things that has changed since coming to university. At college I was a very quiet individual, however coming to university has helped me come out of my shell and not be afraid to question things. My organisation has also increased, and I am constantly making lists to ensure everything is done not only in university life, but also at home with bills etc.
If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?
Informative, enjoyable, advancing.
Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?
Yes.
