Why did you choose Newcastle University to study your degree?
I chose Newcastle University for its fantastic academic and sporting reputation, and its location in a major city with great student and social opportunities. With the campus situated in the city centre made getting around very easy.
What were the best aspects of your degree programme?
The combination of both maths and economics complemented each other greatly over the three years. The course also equipped me with key problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as the necessary research skills developed through the economics side of my course.
What did you enjoy most about life at Newcastle University?
The social life outside of the course was a huge aspect to university. With Newcastle consistently being listed as one of the top sporting institutions in the country, along with the hundreds of clubs and societies on offer filled the whole experience.
Did you make good friends at the university, did it take long for you to form these friendships and are you in touch with these people now?
It took hardly any time to meet people and make friends, due to living and working together every day. I'm still in touch with people now that I met during Freshers' Week.
Were you a member of a club or society, what sort of activities did that involve?
I played in the men's hockey 1st XI for three years which required a huge amount of commitment training three times a week and often travelling as far as Liverpool and Manchester up to twice a week. The social aspect was also a large part with big organised events most Wednesday nights.
If you could give any good advice or tips to new students about financing yourself through university what would it be?
Definitely budget your money and work during the holidays when you can. Having a part-time job may be necessary; however it may impact course and/or social life. Also the majority of people are in the same position and are just as short on money, so just keep a close eye on your finances
What jobs have you had since leaving university?
During the time between finishing exams and graduating I worked at a local restaurant in Jesmond part-time. After graduation however I spent the summer applying and interviewing for full-time graduate positions for September.
How has your degree helped you to get these jobs?
My current full-time job would not have been possible without a degree. Also the skills and knowledge developed over the three years greatly improved my chances and employability.
What job/course are you currently doing or pursuing?
I currently work in London for a software technology company called Autonomy. I began my training in October 09 in a professional sales role, which involves business-to-business sales and account management. It took a while to adjust to the working life, however I have thoroughly enjoyed my time so far.
If you had to recommend Newcastle to a student trying to choose a university what would you say to them?
Newcastle is a top-rated student city with an excellent academic, sporting and social reputation. The campus location is right in the city centre, with student areas close by. The nightlife is fantastic, with hundreds of bars and clubs. The University offers a full package for a great undergraduate experience.
Finally what is your favourite memory of your whole student experience?
It would easily be the Stan Calvert sporting competition between Newcastle and Northumbria in my final year. As 1st XI captain of the hockey club, we beat Northumbria for the first time in that competition for four years, which was then capped off by an overall win by Newcastle University. That was a night to remember...