What appealed to you about Northumbria University?
I’m a student from Xi’an Physical Education University. My University has an exchange agreement with Northumbria and I’m the first student to take part in the exchange.
What was it about the course that particularly appealed?
I was studying Sports Administration at my University in China and this was a similar course.
How did you feel during your first week at Northumbria?
I thought everything looked so modern, I thought I’d never be able to use everything! When I arrived I took an English language course for five weeks which helped me settle in before I started my academic course. I went on some organised trips to places like Durham and South Shields on the coast.
What do you like most about the course?
I like that it looks ahead to future developments. It’s a very new kind of course, not just for the UK but for China and the world too. I enjoy the lectures and seminars, they’re quite different to how we’re taught in China. The seminars aren’t just a place to discuss topics, they’re a good place to make friends too.
How do you get on with your tutors?
They’re very kind, and patient. The tutors help me with work but also with making life easier, and help with homesickness. All of the tutors take care of international students.
What do you do when you’re not studying?
I like going to the gym. I play the piano and there are practice rooms and instruments which are available to book.
What’s your accommodation like?
I live in Lovaine Flats, it’s warm in winter. My own room is very private but I live with six other people from different countries. We’re all really good friends, we’re just like a family.
What would you like to do when you graduate?
I want to travel round Europe in the summer after I graduate, then I’d like to do a Masters. Eventually I’d like to work for an international NGO.
Do you have any advice for anyone applying for your course, or for university in general?
Practice your English, it’s really important.
What’s your favourite thing about Newcastle?
It combines modern and traditional. It’s very safe.
