Hannah Chemical Engineering MEng (Honours)
Why did you choose Newcastle University?
I chose Newcastle because both the University and city have a friendly atmosphere. The University has a great reputation for both the University itself and in particular Chemical Engineering. My course also has good links with industry and excellent job prospects.
What do you think of your course so far?
I enjoy most parts of the course such as fluid mechanics and maths. There is quite a lot of work for Chemical Engineering but if you stay on top of it throughout the year it is much easier to revise for the exams. There is also a great social side to my course. It has an excellent student run society which organises a variety of events throughout the year such as many nights out and an annual ball.
Is there anything that has surprised you about either the course or University, which you didn’t know about before you came here?
Nothing has particularly surprised me about University although the style of teaching is quite different to the type teaching at school as there is a larger influence on independent learning. It is up to you to get the notes or ask for help if you need it.
What are the facilities in your school like?
The facilities in the Chemical Engineering school are very good. They include two large computer clusters as well as a design suite for 3rd and 4th year students to work on and present their design projects. There is also a Millennium undergraduate laboratory which is specially designed and equipped with bench top experimental equipments.
Tell us about any field trips or project work you have taken part in
In the second semester of my first year there was a trip to the nearby Nestle factory. We had a tour around the factory during which the different processes involved in making the sweets and chocolate was explained to us. After the tour we had talks from several people who worked on the plant about their specific roles. And of course we were given a bag of goodies at the end!
How would you describe the city?
Newcastle is a friendly and lively city with a dynamic night life. It contains everything you need (such as a large range of shops and places to eat) but it is also very compact which means it is easy to get everywhere and you are never far from where you need to be.
Do you have any tips for living in student accommodation?
Use the first year of living in accommodation to get to know lots of the other students.
Where do you live and what is it like?
I currently live in Heaton. Although it is close to a bus route and has many shops nearby I still find it is a too far out from the University and other friends.
How do you spend your spare time?
I spend most of my free time with friends usually shopping around town or eating. I also enjoy swimming and running to keep fit.
What is the best thing about being at Newcastle University?
The best thing about Newcastle University is all the fantastic people you meet and all the social activities that are provided.