Leah Stewart

Nursing

Where are you from?

Harrogate

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

Good distance from home in Yorkshire, but not too far. I was impressed with the Open Day and the Clinical Skills facilities at Coach Lane.

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

Friendly locals. Favourite thing is to wander round Jesmond Dene and Heaton Park on a summers evening. Also love to grab a pot of tea from Quillam Brothers in the town.

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

What has surprised me most in the willingness of locals to help. Doing a course that involves 50% placements, mentors have been so supportive -have picked me up/dropped me off at home if required, bought me lunch and just been so giving of their time and knowledge.

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

Yes. From the first day in halls and throughout Freshers Week, if you are friendly to others and take an interest, you will make friends no bother. Everyone is in the same boat so to speak and there are always people from the Univeristy nearby to assist you with any academic issues.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

University tutors at Coach Lane are always willing to help and will squeeze a 1 to 1 in with you even on their lunch break if it will help you academically.

What is your favourite place on campus?

At Coach Lane, I like the Clinical Skills Centre.

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

I have been involved in Welcome Week this year and it was the most fun I have ever had. Meeting new people and all being part of one big team was such an amazing experience. I've also been involved in the learning leaders programme at Coach Lane and have pushed myself out of my comfort zone and given speeches -something I never thought I'd do at University.

What is the best thing about your course?

The peer support and practical approach to learning nursing by doing on placement.

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

Learning to believe in yourself and take hold of every opportunity given to you as a learning experience. In nursing, throughout placement, I think the key lessons have been to be prepared, follow procedure and trust your instincts and always asking for help when you're out of your depth.

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 obviously want to work as a nurse, and possibly develop the career long term to become a specialist nurse or research nurse. The possibilties in nursing are endless.

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

I've been on many placements. Can't say too much about specific experiences as have to maintain confidentiality of patients. I think just been on the wards and interacting with patients day-to-day is memorable in itself, if you can make at least one patient smile you have a rewarding experience, knowing you have made that patients stay in hospital just a little better.

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

I would say go for it. Northumbria has excellent facilities, great opportunities such as volunteering to deepen and expand your university experience. There are a range of soctieties, that would cater to everyones needs. Newcastle itself is a great city, vibrant fun and rich and there's always something or somewhere new to try. The beach and the countryside are close by too!