Catherine Medicine and Surgery MB BS Honours
Course dates: 2007 - 2012
Choosing Newcastle
I chose Newcastle because I loved the city; it's relatively small with plenty to do. The people are really friendly, the cost of living is a lot cheaper than most other cities and the fact that the countryside and coast are very close makes it very unique. There are also loads of clubs and societies to join which makes for a very hectic social life, but I wouldn't change it for the world.
Studying
There are approximately 300 students in my year so there are plenty of opportunities to make friends. My course is quite intense but very enjoyable. It's a good combination of lectures, seminars and practical experience, which is especially important in the first two years. Now I'm in third year I spend most of my time in hospitals, which is a great opportunity to meet patients and experience what medicine is all about.
Facilities
The facilities are great. The libraries are full of all the books you need and the 24-hour computer clusters prove invaluable when deadlines are looming. The Sports Centre is really good - lots of fitness machines, weights and classes if the gym isn't your thing. The students' Union is great for a lunchtime snack or a cheap drink after work!
Living
Newcastle is simply fantastic. From clubs to concerts and shops to sports, there is so much to do - you couldn't possibly get bored. Transport is good, with trains, an airport and the Metro to taking you almost anywhere you want to go. Living in the city has proved inexpensive, leaving plenty of student loan spare for fun and games!
Spare time
Spare time is something I don't really have a lot of, but when I do I spend a lot of time shopping either in the city or at the MetroCentre. I love going to the beach, which is about nine miles from the city, or going for walks in Northumberland. I use the University gym quite a lot to keep in tip top condition. Following all of that, a few drinks on Osborne Road are often in order.
Your future
Being a medical student, I think my career is pretty much sorted. I will probably work in the North East after qualifying as there are lots of job opportunities and I'm certainly not ready to leave Newcastle yet.
Anything else
I don't know anyone who regrets choosing Newcastle University and until you live here you will never know the true delights that the city has to offer.