Where are you from?
Thailand
Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?
Because Northumbria University is a revitalising, encouraging and inspirational place to study. It is a real eye-opener for me.
What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?
Firstly, I would like to learn about British culture and I have heard that there are several fascinating places in the UK, so I need to explore those places. Importantly, as going to be an English teacher in the future, I would like to master the English language.
What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?
British people are very nice to me. Wherever I go, I always hear they say 'thank you', 'please' and so on. These are very nice words, I really feel happy when hearing.
Did you find Northumbria University welcoming? Was it easy to fit in?
I feel that the University really extends a warm welcome to new students, as can be seen, every university staff is friendly, approachable and helpful. Whenever I go I find that they always smile at students. I really have a good time here. As a result, I find it easy to adapt myself to the university life.
What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?
As my priority is to learn British English, I enjoy learning the language both inside the classrooms and outside of the classroom.
Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?
I think, apart from TESOL teaching staff, any university staff whom I ask for help and advice.
Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?
TESOL Module tutors have inspired me most to learn the language in order to be a good language teacher in the near future.
What is your favourite place on campus?
Of course, it is the library where I can be able to read books, revise my study and do my assignments. Especially, it is opened 24/7 so, I can use it whenever I prefer.
What is the best thing about your course?
The best thing is that my course really teaches and prepares me to be a good language teacher when I go back to Thailand.
What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?
Being thousand miles away from my country, first and foremost I need to be is patient when I face any difficulties. Apart from being patient, I have got to be open-minded to learn new things that come to my life.
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?
As mentioned earlier, I would like to be an English teacher when going back to Thailand. So, the skills I have learned here are about how to be an effective English teacher.
Have you taken up any opportunities to travel with your current course/undertake field trips? If so, please tell us about them.
Yes, I took a trip when I was studying pre-sessional English course. At that time, my classmates and I went to Tynemouth beach. When I arrived, I found the beach in the UK is as nice as the beach in Thailand, but what the difference is the weather. Actually, we did several activities together there. It was the event that I would never forget in my life.
If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?
It would say that you need to be prepared for exploring the place where it will give you unforgettable and valuable lessons for the rest of your life.
How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle (e.g. confidence)?
Well, before coming here, I was a person who was not confidnet especially in speaking English native speakers of English. However, since I have been here for nearly first year, I feel much more confident in communciating with native speakers of English here. Furthermore, I would say I am more open-minded to learn new things.
If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?
Encouraging, Inspirational and Revitalising.
Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?
Absolutely, I would.
