Abigail Sykes 1

Law

Where are you from?

Washington, Sunderland

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I wanted to be independent but still be able to be at home within an hour. As well as the extra year for the same cost they offer with my degree (the BPTC). The support that the University have in place also beats the other local universities.

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

I think that the North East is under-rated in it's beauty, some of the sights are amazing despite the cold. I love going around the different bars and restaurants trying new foods and drinks as there is so many different ones to choose from. I also loving going to the shops and having walks around Jesmond.

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

Personally I was really nervous about coming to University and moving out all in the same week but when you get here you realise that you're not the only one. The Welcome Team were super, they helped me carry all of my stuff into my halls despite being in the furthest block away and being on the top floor. It's so easy to fit in because everyone just wants to get to know each other and you will all have something in common without a doubt.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

I have enjoyed the chance to better myself and my future. The University is always holding guest lectures or having an activity whether it's degree related or not to take part in. Meeting my flatmates and making course friends is another thing I have enjoyed the most, you get to know people so well in such little time and now I couldn't imagine being without them.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

My lecturers that both teach at university and are part-time barristers, despite the stress levels it must cause.

What is your favourite place on campus?

Probably the seats outside the Law School as it is without a doubt the most beautiful building on campus and you must look at it to realise it's true beauty.

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

I go swimming roughly six times a week and enjoy the chance to just reflect on my week and get healthy when doing it.

What is the best thing about your course?

All of the guest lectures that I am able to attend and the side projects that I can be a part of.

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

That despite telling yourself you won't get where you want you have to try otherwise you will always wonder what if. As well as this washing machines don't put the soap powder in themselves and there's no man that comes and does it for you, you have to do it yourself (much to my surprise when I moved out).

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 want to be a commercial barrister without a doubt. I have always been a slightly shy person but coming to university has helped me grow and realise that if I want something I just have to work for it and I need to be comfortable in my own skin in order to do that.

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

Not yet although I have recently applied to volunteer with the Citizens Advice Bureau and applied to help with a new Law School Academy which is being set up.

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

I have had to go on court visits in order to do assignments. It is actually great fun regardless if you are a law student or not just watching what people have done and how they are dealt with by the governmental system.

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

Don't limit your options, look around first and really take an interest. It's a really big decision that might scare you so it's best to be prepared as you can be. Don't worry about not knowing anyone or anything as everyone is so friendly you just have to walk up to them (most of the time you don't even need to walk up to them they look at your face and just know your new).