Sian Classics BA Honours
Why did you choose Newcastle?
I chose Newcastle because I visited it for two Classics sixth form days and discovered the bustling and exciting city that is Newcastle. The city was perfect for me as it is relatively small, but still with plenty of interesting things to do.
The Roman history of the city had a big impact on me with my grounding in Latin already and seemed an ideal place to be learning about it.
What do you like most about your course?
There are two different ability classes for Latin and Greek, which are compulsory for BA Honours Classics, but you have a choice over your third module which can be anything from the Classical Studies, Ancient History and other Historical studies courses. This works well as you are mixed with a range of different people that you might not normally meet.
The teaching staff are excellent, especially as the teaching groups for Latin and Greek are generally quite small (there are only 2 of us in Greek!) so each student is given a lot of attention when needed, and the teaching staff are often available for help in their offices in the Armstrong Building. The course also offers regular trips (often at least one a week) to local historic sites which are also available to other students.
The teaching at Newcastle is of a very high quality, especially in the Classics course where you are encouraged to join in group discussions in small groups and to work together.
The small classes mean that it is a very relaxed atmosphere and you can get to know one another quite well. The variety in the module choice is also a nice advantage as there is a huge range of different subjects to suit every interest.
How would you describe Newcastle?
Newcastle is a lively city, with plenty of nightlife, from pubs and bars to clubs so there's always something for everyone. Transport is also easy around the city, with regular buses and Metros. It's also good that the city is so near the sea because it means you can take a Metro straight to the seaside.
The University is very central, at the end of the main shopping street. The shopping itself is excellent, with a new area just opened in the main shopping centre, Eldon Square, with all the major high street shops, and many others.
What do you think about the University's clubs and societies?
There are so many different societies to choose from that you couldn't possibly join all you wanted at one time! I am a member of the Gilbert and Sullivan society which has regular rehearsals every week for the plays that are put on twice a year. There are many different societies, ranging from sports to theatre to Disney! They are a great way to meet new people with similar interests to you.
