Ellie Stansfield

Law

Where are you from?

Masham, North Yorkshire

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I really liked the city, and the University Campus has a really great atmosphere to it that I didn't pick up at any other university.

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

I love Newcastle, it's such a busy and vibrant city with plenty to do! I enjoy the fact i can literally walk into town within minutes and have the choice of several shops to choose from including Eldon Square and the fact I can easily get a bus to the Metro Centre too! There are so many places to eat and drink too, that's a real treat especially when family and friends come up, a particular favourite is Gustos! I also love to run down the Quayside on an evening as it's such a scenic run - it really is unique. Of course nights out in Newcastle are one of a kind too.

What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?

What has surprised me most is how much I've come to love the city, I now call it my home, and can see my future life here which I never thought would happen considering how much of a home bird i was (note the was!!) Newcastle seems to impress me every week, when I'm walking around and figure out another street which connects to one I already knew and discovering various places such as the Grainger Market, a hidden gem and very kind to the pennies, which is most needed as a student.

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

I found Northumbria really welcoming, and I fit in so easy. You were treat like their students from day one, and making friends came much more natural than I thought. It really is lovely when someone likes you enough to ask you your name. Being in a small seminar group I really got to know my group well.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

I have enjoyed learning more aspects of law with regards to my course, but coming to Northumbria I have made friends for life and have had so many memorable days and nights, it really has been the best decision to come and move up here.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

Inspired is a difficult one because i have been inspired by many lecturers and guest speakers at Northumbria. Each and every individual has helped me in their own way, because little by little the things they say have helped to build my confidence and make me believe i can graduate on my course.

What is your favourite place on campus?

I enjoy the Student Union bar, it has a really great Northumbrian atmosphere and you really feel part of a team there (northumbria students unite!).

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

I haven't joined any clubs, I did attend the mock trial society once and really enjoyed that but just didn't find time to go again. I am interested in the volunteering projects so will look into them more for next year.

What is the best thing about your course?

The best thing about my course is the lecturers, some of them are so funny and make the standard presentations so much more entertaining!

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

That if you believe, you're half way there!

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 would like to become a solicitor. I feel that by obtaining work experience and improving my CV to the best standard these will benefit me most in the future for obtaining a training contract.

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

I have been on placement with a law firm, which was interesting and rather intense at times as there is so much going on with different clients and all the different files for them! It was memorable in the fact they appreciated all my help I did for them.

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

I haven't but this is something I would definitely be interested in. Last year, with my college I spent a month in Botswana and Zambia volunteering to the build mud huts for AIDS orphans so would be very much interested in doing something similar if the opportunity arises.

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

If you feel the atmosphere that I felt when I first looked round, don't hesitate, it's the place for you!

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

I feel Northumbria has really helped me to grow as a person, I am much more confident than I was when I first came and feel more happier having a whole new friend group at the university.