Rebecca Taylor

Sports Development with Coaching

What appealed to you about Northumbria University / studying in Newcastle?

I am originally from Blackpool so Newcastle’s nightlife is definitely not one to say no too as a student, but more than anything it was the friendliness of the City and how convenient everything was. The University offered everything I was looking for and the staff were so helpful and welcoming on the open days that I knew as soon as I got here that I wanted to stay.

What was it about the course that particularly appealed?

The relevance of the course in today’s society appealed most to me, along with the structure of assessments and the application of the theory to the real world. I am interested in a career in Sports Marketing so having a solid knowledge of the industry and important policies is something that I find fascinating.

What qualifications did you have?

I applied through UCAS and found the system easy to follow. I did a BTEC at college so the points tariff was understandable and clear.

How did you feel during your first week at Northumbria?

The first week is inevitably one of the biggest weeks of your life, many move to a new area away from family and friends so it is scary. The best thing about the first week was how much was going on, there are so many organised nights out and events that you can do as little or as much as you want. I felt overwhelmed but once the course starts and you get used to everything you settle in and will enjoy every minute.

What do you like most about the course?

My favourite thing about the course is how well you get to know the tutors and how much they are willing to help, providing you put in the effort. There is always someone there to speak to if you are struggling with anything and the course itself is so up-to-date that the material you learn will always be useful and relevant.

Can you give an example of a piece of work you’ve been involved with recently?

I have recently just got back off a teamwork and leadership field trip in the lake-district, which involved relating how you performed in a group to the theory learned in lectures. The way assessments are structured is so diverse that even though the work is challenging it is never boring. The support is always available through e-mail, discussion boards and guidance meetings, so you never feel like something is impossible.

How do you get on with your tutors?

The tutors on the course are brilliant and always helpful. They treat you as a person not just a number and get to know your strengths in order to get the best from you. They are always ready to give advice where possible and don’t judge you if you don’t quite understand something.

Do you have the opportunity for any work placements during your course?

There is an opportunity for work placement in the second year for six weeks. This gives you the chance to really feel what working in the industry can be like. I am hoping to work in a marketing department for a sports company and am excited about the challenges and seeing if it is something I would like to do as a career after finishing university.

What do you do when you’re not studying?

I have a part time job working as a Publicity and Promotions Assistant for the Marketing Department of the Students' Union which I will be starting in September. This is such a good opportunity for students to get involved with as there are many positions available such as Bar Staff and Welcome Desk Staff. This will give me the chance to help make everyone aware of what events are on offer.

What’s your accommodation like?

I really like my accommodation because there are always people around so it feels safe and homely. It is so good to come back after a day of lectures and just sit with my flat mate having a brew and a chat. The rooms are a good size and as soon as you have unpacked it feels like home.

What would you like to do when you graduate?

I started the course wanting to be a teacher of P.E but as the course progressed and I saw the range of career opportunities I have changed my mind and would like a role in marketing or events management. The Sports Industry module has shown me how influential sports are to society which has made me want more of an active role in shaping the development of sports for the future.

Do you have any advice for anyone applying for your course, or for university in general?

One thing I would advise for potential students is to sort out finance and accommodation as soon as you can, to avoid any last minute stresses. I would also say ask as many questions as you need, don’t be afraid to ask because someone will always be there to help.