Student Profile

About me

Name: Aswathi
Course: MSc Environmental Engineering
Study mode: Full time
Where I’m from: India

Choosing Newcastle

Firstly I chose Newcastle because of the relevance of the course I wanted to pursue. Secondly Newcastle University is one of the 20 Russell Group universities in the UK and finally the cost of living and the environment.

Studying at Newcastle

I most enjoy laboratory sessions since I am able to gain hands-on experience. I would recommend this course to my friends because the modules are well structured and the lab facilities are really good.

I feel more responsible as a postgraduate because it is the foundation towards my career and future endeavours; I have to be focused on my career as a postgraduate as I will only get a good result if I work hard. The topics taught are familiar, but are taught with more depth and clarity. As a postgraduate you are given greater access to facilities and are given the opportunity to talk to many different people, it is an opportunity to study with multinationals and can be a platform to expand your networks and socialise with a wider variety of people.

Postgraduate community

I am utilising and have utilised the postgraduate resources as much as I can. I use the library and postgraduate computer clusters regularly. The staff and demonstrators are always helpful and very friendly and I often take the opportunity to talk with staff as well as with friends and course mates in group discussion.

Funding my studies

I received the India GREAT Scholarship which was worth £3000; this was through Newcastle University and the British Council. I am very delighted to be a scholarship holder. My parents provide additional finance for my studies.

Career aspirations

After the completion of my Master’s degree I would like to join environmental firms as a solution provider or work on environmental projects. Whilst studying in Newcastle I expect to gain a thorough knowledge in my subject area (Environmental Engineering). Undertaking a reputed degree from Newcastle opens up a world of opportunities to work with top employers in my sector.

Accommodation

I live in Kensington Terrace which is University accommodation. My friend lived here last year and she recommended Kensington Terrace as it is newly refurbished. I applied online and it was very easy. Though my room is small it is very cosy, cute and comfortable and has the essentials for a student. I am very happy with my room and with my housemates too.

Living in Newcastle

Newcastle is a very friendly place. I have felt safe and the people of the city are very friendly. It is a serene and beautiful historic city with modern facilities.

Remembering Newcastle

Though I am in the first few months of my postgraduate study I think the staff are very encouraging and the modules are well structured. As a university, Newcastle offers a wide range of resources for students to aid and develop skills. I have used the library facilities and the Careers Service, where I spoke to a CV adviser who was very helpful. The University also offers various social activities which are important during life as a student; one example is Welcome Week when I went to a movie night and bowling which was very fun. As a city Newcastle is very welcoming and pleasing with very good facilities.