Flying Start Student Ambassador Profile
Name: Sai-Seema Rehan
Home City: Newcastle
A level subjects: Maths, Chemistry and Physics
Interests: Piano and music
Why Newcastle?
When it came to applying to university I always knew I wanted to stay local but little did I know that such a fantastic course was available. My decision was influenced by the fact that this prestigious course at Newcastle is internationally recognised and respected why would I need to look further?! Many student ambassadors from the university had given talks at my school and I knew from listening to and interacting with them that Newcastle felt right for me. Also being from Newcastle, I knew the city was a brilliant place to not only to learn but to also socialise.
Open/ Assessment day
Before arriving, all the information required was given prior to the day such as a timetable of the day and the location of all the events so it was just a case of showing up on the day. As my interview was in the afternoon I was quite anxious in the morning but when I arrived, I felt at ease and sometimes I even forgot it was an assessment!! It especially helped me listening to the students who were already on the course and their experience; it set the tone of the day and the course in general.
How are you finding the course so far?
One word amazing! Before starting I was apprehensive and worrying about what if this isn’t the course for me but as soon as we started learning I now know it is! Others have done more relevant subjects such as business studies or economics but in my opinion it doesn’t make a difference as the learning starts from a basic level so all you need to have is an ambition to succeed and determination! It is such a fantastic course and experience!
Hints and Tips
The main tip I would give you is to remain calm and positive. I know it is hard to in an interview process but it really does help.
Other tips I would give is to interact with your team beforehand as there is a group assessment. This is what it implies so knowing your team helps make the process seem less daunting than what it is.
Finally, I would say just think before you speak and come with questions as this is also a chance for you to learn more about the course aswell. Good luck!
