Patrick International Business Management BA Honours
Course dates: 2010 - 2014
Choosing Newcastle
I chose Newcastle University primarily because I wanted to study in England at a good University, in terms of its rating compared to other Universities. When I took a look at the University during the summer before even knowing if I was accepted at Newcastle University, I immediately noticed the amount of resources that were available to students, not only in terms of academics but also in terms of social life such as sports or nightlife. This made my decision very easy. In addition I choose Newcastle University because it offered courses I was interested in.
Studying at Newcastle
The first year of my course was quite theoretical, providing me with basic knowledge of management theory. In a way I did not always find this very useful, however, once getting to second year, most lecturers refer to these theories therefore making it essential to learn about them. My second year courses are more demanding but also more fun. Rather than pure theory, a lot of the teaching can be applied when working, making it very interesting to learn. Additionally, I am currently in the phase of finding a placement for my year abroad, making university life very exciting.
In regards to surprises, before I came here I did not know about the resources of careers service that were available to me. Once being here I got involved in things such as the Rise up entrepreneur programme, which added valuable experience to my CV and to my overall University experience so far.
As for facilities, Newcastle University has just opened the new business school this year. Although still being under progress, it looks promising. Students of the business school have many resources available to them, including a large array of textbooks, journals and other academic sources in the library.
Living in Newcastle
Newcastle is a student city. There is a reason why Newcastle University student experience has been ranked number one in the country for the past few years. If you like shopping, large shopping malls are situated in the middle of town. The high street in Newcastle is always busy, full of students, making it a nice place to be at. Nightlife in Newcastle is the big one everyone talks about. Every night thousands of students hit the bars and clubs. If you want to get involved on the other side of these nights, organising nights, promotions etc. is possible as well. If in general you want to work in Newcastle, a lot of jobs are available, offered both locally and by the University.
As a second year student, most students move to Jesmond, including me. Living in Jesmond is a dream. Students everywhere, and a lot of places to go for food or drinks. The atmosphere is amazing because even though it is a residential area, it is pretty much populated by students only. Additionally, Jesmond is very close to town, making it easy to walk into town, University, the sports centre, pretty much anywhere.
Accommodation Tip - In my first year I stayed at the so called "Ricky road" (Richardson road). Social life in student accommodation is simply amazing and every student should look forward to staying at halls. The amount of people you meet is incredible. Also halls are normally close to University making things easier.
Social life at Newcastle
When not at University I play for one of Newcastle University's many sports teams. Personally I play American Football, having played intra-mural football (soccer) in my first year. Also I like going out with my friends, as mentioned social life is incredible in Newcastle.
Best thing about Newcastle
It is the combination of getting a very good education but at the same time being able to have a fulfilling social life, if it is in terms of academics or sports, or going out with your friends.
