Sam Walton

Clinical Exercise Physiology

Where are you from?

Newcastle upon Tyne

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I recognise the experience of the staff and reputation of Northumbria University in the field of sport science, being one of the original providers of sport science degrees in the UK and provider of sport-related support to numerous professional sports clubs. It is with this experience that I recognise that there are multiple benefits on offer. I am also aware that there are excellent facilities at Northumbria, including a new 30 million sports central building with state of the art equipment for physiology testing and specialised sport laboratories.

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

I love Newcastle, I particularly enjoy watching Newcastle United football club play and eating at the restaurants along grey street and the quayside, in particular, Sabatini.

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

The biggest surprise is the reasonable cost of most things in the city, be it a drink at a bar or something to eat in the town centre. What is most impressive is the diversity and culture of the city.

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

I found Northumbria to be most welcoming, there is always an event on in the campus which is targeted to all students. The student helpers are key to the welcome, they're very good.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

I have enjoyed being able to work in the amazing facilities and also there is a good atmosphere around campus which is most welcoming.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

The careers and advice centre have been brilliant. It always quiet which is strange but there advice is very valuable with regards to job applications, CV's and cover letters.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

The lecturers, their level of knowledge in the field is definitely inspiring.

What is your favourite place on campus?

Sports Central, it is a fantastic place to take part in sport or to use their outstanding gym equipment.

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

I played a couple games of rugby for Northumbria rugby, the set up is brilliant. They have all the up to date kit and the training sessions are very well structured.

What is the best thing about your course?

The hands on experience in the labs. I learned numerous clinical competencies such as spirometry, ECG lead placement etc. This was most interesting for me.

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

Most valuable lesson to date as a student at Northumbria is getting the correct balance between study, work, sport and other activities. Work load can be heavy so it's important not to over do it.

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 begin a career in the NHS as a respiratory physiologist and perhaps do this for a few years and then develop my knowledge further by perhaps doing a PHD in the future. Maybe at Northumbria. The practical skills i developed on the course will be most useful as a pursue a career.

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

I have undertaken a work placement at the freeman hospital in the pre-assessment clinic thanks to the help of my senior lecturer. It is really challenging and i am learning a lot about the daily schedule of the hospital staff. I particuarly enjoy meeting the patients old and young, they always have interesting stories.

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

I would say to get involved in sport and extra activities. They have amazing facillities and the sports teams in particular are very organised and welcoming.