John Marine Engineering BEng
Course Dates: 2009 - 2011
Your course
It is a very good course and I have had a good experience studying in the Marine Science and Technology Department. The lecturers and staff there are very helpful and are always happy to help the students with coursework and during lab work. There is a clear learning process in place and the connection between the lecturers and the students is very good. The course has a rich content. We learn a lot of things which are usually reserved for more experienced marine engineers. I've made a lot of friends on the course, both from the UK and the wider international community.
Choosing Newcastle
A friend of mine studied here and advised that I choose to study in Newcastle. I did some more resarch on things such as finance, the facilities and what it was like to live in Newcastle and was impressed with it. I also noticed that the content of the course included twin tank cavatation tunnels which is what I am particularly interested in. I am pleased I made the decision to come here.
University facilities
The Robinson Library has a lot of good books. When I was searching for books to do my assignments, the staff were very helpful and helped me find the right materials. I can also use the computer clusters 24 hours a day which I like. The School of Marine Science and Technology also has the correct software installed on its computers that I can use to do my assignments.
I use the sports facilities in my first year which are of a very high standard. They are also affordable to students.
Students' Union
I am President of the Nigerian Society. We organise Nigerian students at Newcastle. This can involve us organising their activities within the local community as well helping new Nigerian students settle in when they arrive in Newcastle. We help them integrate into the University and 'Geordie' community. There are 35 members in the Society but often many more attend our social events. We were fortunate enough that the Vice-Chancellor and a local MP were able to join us at one of our most recent parties designed to celebrate Nigeria's indepedence. Being President of the Nigerian society takes up a lot of spare time but it is enjoyable. I enjoy working in the community and providing a service for my fellow students.
Accommodation
In my first year I lived in Victoria Hall. It is one of the best halls for students with good facilities such as flat screen TVs in the communal areas. It is nicely furnished and is only five minutes walk from the campus. I now live in Fenham with my Nigerian friend. Fenham has a very international community and I have met many people from different countries and cultures.
The city
The people in Newcastle are very friendly and very accommodating. I was lucky enough to visit the Lord Mayor of Newcastle and he showed me around the Council Chambers and told me the history of Newcastle. He taught me things I would never have learnt in the classroom. Newcastle is a growing, cosmopolitan city. It's like a home away from home for me. There is a low level of crime and I find it a very safe place to live. The cost of living is manageable and relatively low compared to other cities.
Scholarships
When I first arrived in Newcastle, I received the International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship which was very helpful and I used the money to buy books and other material I required for my course.
Future plans
In the future, I would like to gain some industrial experience and ultimately do a PhD in the UK. To do it in Newcastle would be great.
Advice for future students
My advice to future students coming from Nigeria would be: Choose Newcastle. You will not be disappointed, not only from a learning point of view but also from a community and social aspect too.