Hannah English Language and Literature
Course Dates: 2009 - 2012
Choosing Newcastle
I knew I wanted to study here pretty much as soon as I arrived. The city is beautiful and driving over the Tyne when I first got here blew me away. The university itself is well respected, compact and easy to get around, the course looked great and its right in the centre of the city so you get the best of both worlds: a campus set-up right across the road from the centre of town.
Studying at Newcastle
I've loved my course. The best thing is that after your first year you get to pick and choose modules so you're always studying something that you enjoy. I also think, especially in your second and final years the teaching is excellent. The seminar and study groups allow for close analysis and discussion of texts and the lecturers are always encouraging us drop by if we are having any difficulties.
I'm in my final year and instead of doing a dissertation I'm writing a collection of poetry and reflective commentary as a 'File of Original Work' project. I've found this hugely enjoyable and rewarding and the support you get is great. There is so much opportunity at Newcastle University to tailor your course to fit your interests.
Living in Newcastle
The city is small and friendly but very vibrant and exciting at the same time. It's so quick and easy to get around and is full of galleries, cafés, bars, clubs, parks that suit every taste. Newcastle is also really close to the Northumberland countryside and the coast and with the metro links it is really easy to have a day out of the city.
I live in Jesmond which is about a half an hour walk from the university and a 5 minute metro ride. Jesmond is a lovely place to live, it's small and has everything you need on hand. There is a Tesco Metro around the corner from my flat and the Osborne Road bars and restaurants. Also, especially in the Spring and Summer it's nice to go for a walk in Jesmond Dene Park to get away from the stresses of essays or relax with friends.
Accommodation Tip - Whether you live in Jesmond, Heaton, Gosforth or wherever you might choose the standard of student accommodation in Newcastle is definitely better than a lot of what I have seen of friends at other universities. I would say don't leave it too late, go for an upstairs flat which tend to be a bit quieter and warmer and check for signs of mould and dampness.
Socialising at Newcastle
If I have a few days off from assignments and lectures I tend to go and relax with my friends in one of the parks or go to Tynemouth beach for the day. At night I love going to gigs when I can afford it or for a few drinks or a night out in Digital, WHQ or Head of Steam. A couple of my friends and I sometimes like to go along to the NCLA events when we're feeling a bit more cultured!
Best Thing about Newcastle...
The people. The friends you make and the lecturers who are always willing to help you. Also you can't beat the city centre location.
