Jane Chinese/Japanese and Cultural Studies BA
Course Dates: 2011-2015
Your course
The course is interesting. The teachers are very committed and they have a lot of time to answer our questions. I also find that the personal tutor system works well for me. The Japanese element is super difficult but that is what I expected when I signed up to the course. As the course is combined with a Cultural Studies element, I take modules from other schools in the University, but try to choose those that are related to Japan and Japanese culture so that it links in with the linguistic element of the course.
Why Newcastle?
I wanted to study abroad in a country where I spoke the language and also that was affordable. Newcastle was the only University that does the specific course I am currently studying and the city seemed the right size - I looked everything up before applying here and felt I would like it.
Facilities
The library is good and is open 24 hours as I like to study at night as do many students. Generally it has everything I need. I use the Students' Union to study and to shop and of course to go to Subway. I really like the new building. It is a good modern facility which is in contrast to its attractive and less modern exterior. I am a member of many societies such as AIESEC, the International Development Society, the Modern Languages Society and the Anglo-Japanese Society. In the International Development Society, we are organising our own conference in February and have received good support from the University. Societies are good ways of making friends - most of the friends I have here I met in the societies. I have also joined the Ultimate Frisbee club and the Athletics club but I am going to wait until the weather gets a bit better in spring before I play these games.
Accommodation
I live in private accommodation with other international students in the Sandyford area of the city. I chose to do this as it is cheaper. Sandyford is a good place to live and is close to the University which is a plus point.
The city
Newcastle is a cheap city to live in and there are good shopping facilities. I like the fact that it is so close to so many amazing places such as the coast at Tynemouth, Edinburgh and the countryside itself. There are loads of things to do outside of the city. In my spare time I go to church at the Jesmond Parish Church. I attend the Globe Cafe they put on there twice a week. It's a good way of making friends with other international students.
Advice for future students
I would advise future students to get involved with as many activities as they possibly can to make friends. Don't be afraid to speak up here if there is a problem. Use the services that the University has to offer to help you.
