Jessica Biomedical Sciences (Integrated Masters) MSci
Why did you choose Newcastle University?
I chose Newcastle for its reputation as a research intensive University. The academic staff are all experts in their chosen field and teach you about current science and what they are conducting research into.
What do you think of your course so far?
So far, I have really enjoyed the course. In first year there is so much variety in what you are taught so you develop interests in subjects that you may not have previously considered. You also move away from the structure of a school curriculum and learn about lots of different things.
Is there anything that has surprised you about either the course or University, which you didn’t know about before you came here?
Before starting my course I didn’t expect there to be so many practical classes as the year group is fairly large. Each of the 6 modules has at least 3 practical classes so you become confident using new equipment in preparation for individual projects later on in your degree. Also, each student is assigned a personal tutor who you can arrange to meet whenever you want to have a chat about any aspect of your time at University.
What are the facilities in your School like?
The facilities in our School are fantastic. The University has clearly spent a lot of money on updating lecture theatres and equipping the laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment. We also have our own Undergraduate common room to spend time in between lectures and at lunchtime. The School also has its own library, so you don’t have to walk across campus to get books or journals or have access to a computer. One of our computer facilities is open 24 hours!
Tell us about any field trips or project work you have taken part in
In first year we haven’t had the opportunity for any field trips but we are encouraged to get work experience wherever we can. I managed to arrange some visits with local hospitals and found this a valuable experience. In seminars, we have been assigned group work which is a good way to make friends and share the project between a few people.
Have you taken a year abroad? Tell us about this
I haven’t taken a year abroad but in between second and third year I hope to get an industrial placement in a pharmaceutical company to get some experience in preparation for leaving university so I can appear more employable to graduate employers.
How would you describe the city?
I have always lived in Newcastle, so I might sound biased but it really is a fantastic place to live and study. The campus and halls of residence are right in the city centre, so there is always something to do and the night-life is really good any night of the week.
Do you have any tips for living in student accommodation?
Although I lived at home during my first year, I have moved into private rented accommodation with people that I met on my course. Going to supermarkets just outside the city centre are a lot cheaper than those on the main shopping streets, or share online delivery charges so you don’t have to even leave the house! Also, have plenty of pasta in your cupboard, it is the easiest meal to make if you’re hungry/don’t want to go shopping.
Where do you live and what is it like?
I live in West Jesmond, a popular area for Newcastle students to live in after their first year in halls. The rent can be quite expensive here but if you look around you can get some good houses for the same price as those in other student areas. There are 4 people in my flat, 2 girls and 2 boys. We only have one bathroom, but the living room and kitchen are really big so perfect for socialising. Jesmond itself as a place is very suited for students, with lots of little bars, cafes and shops amongst the residential streets.
How do you spend your spare time?
During term-time I play netball in the intra-mural league for my course team. This is a less competitive way of getting involved in university sport and is good for meeting people from all stages of your degree course. Away from university, I have a few other hobbies so it’s important that you manage to balance your university work with these activities, but still have fun!
What is the best thing about being at Newcastle University?
The best thing about being at Newcastle University is the wide range of people that you meet. People come not only from all over the UK but all over the world, proving that the University really is a top-class place to study.