Olivia Mathematics BSc
Choosing Newcastle
I was originally planning on going to Edinburgh University, but when I came to look round Newcastle, I decided that I would prefer to come here. It's also a good distance from home. I loved the studenty vibe of the city and lots of people had said what an amazing city it was to live in.
Course so far
It's quite good. It's sufficiently challenging and it's good that there aren't big reading lists. All material is provided and all lectures are in the same place which is handy.
I do wish that there was an opportunity to do a year in industry as this is something I now realise I'd be greatly interested in.
Surprises
No not really. The only thing if anything is I'd say that the modules are all pretty much at least 80% exam based, so you have to be happy to be mainly assessed via exams.
Facilities
The facilities are good, especially the computer cluster. Also most lecturers have good office hours and even if you visit outside the office hours, if they are free they are more than willing to help.
City
It's a great city for students as there are so many from Newcastle and Northumbria. During the week, Newcastle is really run around the students. I like the fact that we are almost like a campus university in that the entire campus is in the same place as opposed to dotted around a city, yet we are still inner city and no buses/ transport are required to get around.
Where I live
I live in Jesmond, where most people in second/ third year tend to live. I live in a student flat with five girls and it's amazing! We have the best time, living with your best friends all the time. It's really close to lots of other people on my course/ from my old halls, so it's great to see everybody all the time.
Accommodation tips
Just be open-minded before moving in; you will live with people completely different from yourself but these may turn out to be your closest friends. You also definitely do not need en-suite! go for basic and cheapest as this is where you will have the most fun.
Spare time
I tend to spend my spare time with friends. I enjoy socialising in bars and restaurants and going out into Newcastle at night. I also enjoy reading and swimming/ the gym. I am also a Student Ambassador for the University so I spend a fair amount of time doing different sorts of things within the University. I also have a part time job as a waitress.
Best thing
The best thing about Newcastle University is the people who go there. I've made friends for life.
