Loyola Student Stories
Our students are highly engaged, open-minded individuals. Hear about their experiences below.
Liz, Spring 2023
What was your favourite thing to do in your free time?
Walk around the city with a North Shore coffee in hand.
What surprised you the most about living and studying in Newcastle?
How at ease I felt when I first arrived. The adjustment was the thing that scared me the most but I acclimatised to Newcastle so well and so quickly – it simply felt like home.
Did you, at any point, experience 'culture shock' or a difficult transition? How did you overcome it?
University was definitely a culture shock. The way they split up the courses into lectures and seminars [...] was not something I was used to. However, all of my lecture and seminar leaders were absolutely wonderful and welcomed me with open arms. They were always happy to explain anything a little further and give me a helping hand.
.jpg)
Cristina, Fall 2023
What was your favourite thing to do in your free time?
Get coffee from Anyone Coffee, walk around City Centre and watch NUFC games at the pub with friends!
What surprised you the most about living and studying in Newcastle?
I was pleasantly surprised by how walkable the city was. It was very nice to be able to get to a lot of places simply by walking because it helped me fully experience Newcastle. I was also surprised by how independent our coursework was – very different from school at Loyola. It helped me learn what my studying style was.
What is your one piece of advice for future Loyola students studying at Newcastle University?
Explore the city any chance you get and do not be afraid to meet new people!
Alex, Spring 2024
What was your favourite thing to do in your free time?
I spent most of my free time wandering around Newcastle. You have the main street, which has almost everything you could need. I found that just wandering the city itself gave me plenty of opportunities to connect with the locals, as well as the ability to find small spots that you wouldn't normally see at first glance.
How did the Loyola Center add value to your experience?
Both of the coordinators put an immense amount of time and effort into everything we did. Not only were the activities and trips amazing, the weekly recommendations and reminders of things happening around Newcastle helped with my acclimatisation. They are also the kindest people I have ever met and were always there to help you in your need.
What is your one piece of advice for future Loyola students studying at Newcastle University?
Do everything, no matter how big or small, with or without your friends. Take advantage of your time here and experience everything. Try the food at restaurants that you wouldn't normally go to. Explore parks or enjoy the sights around the city.
Lyra, Full Year 2023-24
What surprised you the most about living and studying in Newcastle?
I was surprised at how many friendships I formed with people from all over the UK! I have so many friends who have come overseas to visit me here in the states and who I’ve travelled back to the UK to see!
How did the Loyola Center add value to your experience?
They are fantastic! They helped with the transition and planned tons of fun trips for us. This really helped us bond as a Loyola group and experience more of the new culture.
What is your one piece of advice for future Loyola students studying at Newcastle University?
Take every opportunity and don’t be afraid to do your own thing. You will meet the most amazing people who will change you and your life in so many incredible ways.
I can not emphasise enough how important it is to step outside the Loyola bubble while you’re here. Of course, do the Loyola things and spend time with Loyola people, but you’re there for something new, so say hi to your flatmates, go to a pub quiz. Do everything and step outside your comfort zone. You won’t regret it!
.jpg)
Lauren, Spring 2024
How did the Loyola Center add value to your experience?
By planning so many trips around the UK that I would have never thought to explore independently and overall being a supportive team to all of us.
What is your one piece of advice for future Loyola students studying at Newcastle University?
Get a head start on getting settled in to Newcastle life! Go out and explore, find grocery shops you like, take advantage of free events to meet new people and try new things, and just take everything head on!
Anything else you want to share about your experience?
Take advantage of coming to Newcastle in the Spring for a month long spring break so you can travel across Europe.
