Rian Politics and Sociology BA Honours
Choosing Newcastle
I chose Newcastle University because out of all the open days I attended, Newcastle stood out for me. Not only was the University very appealing for its reputation, but the city of Newcastle was great too. Its not too big or too small and its nightlife along with other things is incredible.
Studying at Newcastle
I am in third year now and so far I have really enjoyed it. It's a degree that depends heavily on you going out and doing your own work and independent research and I like the feeling of being able to pick a wide range of topics each year.
The facilities are really good. The office is very easy to find and everyone is very helpful.
The biggest project that I have done is my dissertation which I am currently doing. It's tough and frustrating at times as I am trying to get an interview with a local newspaper to no avail but I know I will be happy to complete it and look back on it with a sense of achievement.
Living in Newcastle
The city is perfect for students. The campus is right in the city centre making it very accessible. The nightlife here can only be described as incredible as there are so many bars and clubs with very affordable drinks and if that isn't your kind of thing then there are plenty of other things to do, with the art galleries, plenty of great restaurants or even go to see a football match at the very impressive stadium.
I live in Sandyford, an area that is right beside the city centre which is great because nothing is outside of a walking distance. I'm living with three of my mates which is a great part of the uni experience, but I do wish the house was kept a bit tidier!
Accommodation Tip - Make friends! Everyone is in the same boat at the start and knocking on your flatmates door and inviting them to check out the place or go to the pub to get to know each other helps you settle in nicely. There's that, and taking a note of when the fire alarm test is due to go off each week to avoid embarrassingly running outside in your dressing gown at 8 in the morning.
Socialising at Newcastle
A lot of my spare time is taken up by rugby. I play for a local team in Newcastle which is mostly full of students with matches on a Saturday and have made some good friends and had good times on and off the pitch.
Best thing about Newcastle
The best thing about being at Newcastle University is that the nightlife here is incomparable to anywhere else I have ever been. It is really easy to meet new people and find somewhere to go and I would recommend it to any student.
