Newcastle University

Student Profile

Emma

History BA Honours

I heard about the PARTNERS programme through school, when a representative of the University came to do a talk. I thought it would be useful to get to know the University before I came here, and the prospect of a lower offer was also appealing!

I had previously taken part in Student Shadowing in year 12, as well as the University Survival Guide. On both events I got to see the University in more depth than on an open day. I also got to know a lot of people.

I think the Assessed Summer School (ASS) was extremely useful; and it was a great taster of university life and meant I had a better idea of what to expect. I met a lot of new people, some of whom I am still good friends with now. It also meant I was more confident. I would definitely recommend the PARTNERS programme to anyone as it allows you to experience so much of university life before you get here.

I live in St Mary’s college, which is university accommodation. It is in a lovely area and is spacious but it is a little more out of the way compared to other accommodation. As a local student you can’t expect to get university accommodation straight away.

The transition into uni life was quite easy due to the support of the PARTNERS and academic staff. My course has been a lot more varied than I expected it to be, I am really enjoying the independence university life provides.

I work part-time but I also received Government grants and bursaries. I tried to budget at the beginning of term which really helped.