Sarah Economics

Choosing Newcastle

I chose Newcastle University because it had a great reputation for Economics and the modules sounded interesting. It offers so many opportunities academically, and with sports and societies. What really attracted me to the University was Newcastle itself. It's such an amazing city with so much to do and great for students.

Course So Far

First year was pretty easy as I'd already done Maths and Economics at A-Level, so it wasn't much of a step up for me. This was good though as it meant I could concentrate on settling in to University life without the added stress of a difficult course. Second year is getting more challenging and interesting though.

Facilities at Newcastle

As the Business school has just been built  (2012), there are lots of brand new facilities. A Starbucks has recently opened downstairs for coffee or to grab a snack for lunch. The building also has a number of computer clusters for work, and a 'quick print zone' which is handy for printing off lecture slides before the lecture. It also has an undergraduate social area to hang out in during free periods.

Field Trips/Projects

In first year and second year we have done statistics projects in groups, as well as a group report on a current Economic issue (mine was on migration). We also get about three essays a year on different modules.

Living in Newcastle

Newcastle is easily the best student city! There is so much to do during the day; shopping in town or at the Metrocentre, going down to the Quayside, getting a metro to the beach, bowling, cinema... But what really sets Newcastle apart is its amazing nightlife. I've visited friends in Sheffield, Edinburgh, Leeds etc and Newcastle is easily the best.

Where I Live

In my first year I lived in Windsor Terrace. I absolutely loved there! It was small enough that everyone knew everyone, but big enough that there was always something going on. The location was perfect, it was on campus so I could easily walk to lectures in 5mins and into the centre in 10. I now live in Sandyford. With it being close to Jesmond I can easily walk on to Osbourne Road where most of the Students hang out, but get the cheaper rent for not having the Jesmond postcode. It takes me about half an hour to walk to the business school, but I know many people get the Metro.

Accommodation Tips

Get on with your housemates as best as you can, even if you don't become friends it just makes it easier and nicer to live there. Just have fun and try and meet as many new people as possible, especially during the first week. It might be scary, but make the effort to go knock on other flats doors and introduce yourself and invite everyone round for pre drinks.

Spare time

As Newcastle city has so much to do, you can never be bored. The University itself also has a ridiculous amount of sports clubs and societies.I am part of badminton, Economics and Poker society. there are also plenty of others ranging from the usual football, rugby, swimming, netball, to the more unusual water polo, Disney society and Ultimate Frisbee. I am part of badminton, Economics and Poker society.

Best thing about Newcastle

I couldn't decide on one thing that is best thing about being at Newcastle, it's the entire package! A fantastic city, friendly locals, a reputable University and a great course!