Rosie Linguistics BA Honours
Course dates: 2009-2012
Choosing Newcastle
I chose to come to Newcastle University as I was really impressed with the course and facilities when I came for an open day. Also, as a local student I felt really lucky that I could come to a University that is ranked so highly on the University league tables and still live at home.
Studying at Newcastle
I have really enjoyed the course. There are so many modules that you can choose to take, you can go down a lot of specific routes while your studying, or just have a really varied experience. The staff are so supportive and no concern is too big or small for them. There really is a friendly, comfortable environment which I think all the students can feel.
The facilities are really good. The Percy Building (English building) has it's own little computer cluster and student common room which are really handy if you need somewhere to go during a break between lectures. I also love how the Percy Building is so central on campus, so you don't have to walk far at all to get to it. The Robinson Library is brilliant and is so vast that you'll always find somewhere to study even at the busiest of times.
As part of one of my modules I had the opportunity to visit ESOL Centres in Newcastle and Middlesbrough where I observed people who were learning English as their second language. It opened my eyes to a whole new level of studying Linguistics and also to the possibility of pursuing this as a career.
Living in Newcastle
I love Newcastle! It's got the right amount of everything. It has so many shops, restaurants, museums and art galleries. The nightlife is always raved about and it always feels safe. All the local Geordies are some of the friendliest people you will meet, all you need to worry about is understanding their accent!
In my first two years at university, I lived at home in Washington. Now I live in Gateshead, next to Gateshead Stadium, and it is brilliant to commute into town everyday via the Metro service. It only takes me ten minutes to get from my house to university campus. Shop around for accommodation. Also, it would be good to just travel around Heaton, Jesmond and Sandyford areas to see what you like and dislike about the areas. Also, don't disregard living in Gateshead. Most people think it's far away as it's not Newcastle, but if you find a place near a Metro line you will get into Newcastle so quickly. It's also cheaper on the Gateshead side of the river Tyne!
Socialising at Newcastle
In my spare time I write for The Courier - the Student Newspaper. I recommend that you do it, as its fun and it looks great on your CV. You can either write just the one-off pieces of become a regular contributor. I also love eating out at restaurants, and although I am a Newcastle local I still haven't dined at most of the restaurants in Newcastle as there is so much choice.
Best thing about Newcastle
I love how settled and comfortable I feel at university.I love all the opportunities that are available to help us gain work/life experience and grow and develop as a person.
