Nicole Psychology BSc Honours
Choosing Newcastle
I chose Newcastle as it has a brilliant reputation for my psychology course, as well as a great reputation as a UK institution (being part of the Russell Group). The lecturers at Newcastle are leaders in their field and I knew it had a good record for graduate employment.
The Course So Far
The course is very interesting and enjoyable. The course brings together a variety of disciplines and I feel that I have gained a variety of valuable skills and knowledge to take away with me in future employment.
The course material is very up to date with lectures in eating disorders, evolutionary psychology, biological and developmental psychology. The course was a lot more scientific than I expected (as it is classed within medical sciences). However, during the three years I have greatly enjoyed the biological and research aspect of the course.
Facilities
The facilities in the school of psychology are all very up to date with the latest technology. Facilities like the Robinson Library and computer clusters make it easy to find all the relevant information and support. Psychology is also linked with the Institute of Neuroscience in the medical school which has brilliant resources for third year projects!
Field Trips Projects
My third year project (dissertation) involved testing the face perception of 6, 8 and 10 year olds in local primary schools, along with a group of local adults. I was able to conduct my own research with the guidance and support of a project tutor and this was brilliant work experience for my future PGCE (teacher training).
Living in Newcastle
I don't currently live in Newcastle but my friends live in a variety of places including Jesmond, Heaton and Sandyford. Jesmond has some great bars but is at the pricier end, whereas Heaton is only a short way from the University and offers accommodation for much cheaper rent. All have a great student atmosphere, are very close to campus (within 15 minutes) and feel very safe.
Newcastle is a great city to live and work in. It has an amazing nightlife with clubs and bars to suit everyone! My personal favourites include the Diamond Strip (Revolution, Koos, Floritas, Perdu), however there is nothing better than a cheap night round the Gate (including some very cheap trebles!).
Newcastle also has a great music scene with the Metro Radio Arena, the Sage Gateshead, the O2 Academy and smaller venues like the Cluny offering gigs almost every night of the week to suit every taste.
It also has various theatres and cinemas for those who want a more relaxing night(including the Tyneside Cinema which plays small 'indie' films). There is also a great selection of amazing restaurants so there is no excuse for having nothing to do!
Spare time
The social life at Newcastle is amazing. There's always something going on whether its quiet drinks and lunch after a lecture, or a big night out with the girls.
The Union offers a wide selection of societies and sports clubs to keep you entertained and this is a great way to meet loads of new people. However, Newcastle also has some amazing retail therapy! It has the largest shopping centre - the Metrocentre (which is all indoors) and also has Eldon Square (which has recently been extended to house some great new shops). Yet, Newcastle also has a wide variety of designer shops and boutiques if you want something special, including Vivienne Westwood, End Clothing, Cruise and Union.
Best Thing
The best thing about Newcastle has to be the people I have met! I've made some friends for life and have some great memories of the past three years. There are plenty of opportunities to meet new people and events like Fresher's Week have been some of my best times!