Otto
BSc Earth Science.
Choosing Newcastle
When I came to visit Newcastle on an open day, I loved the city and the campus. I felt it was what I imagined my ideal university to be like.
It is a well-sized city and the campus is in the centre of it rather than outside of town as it is with many universities. It’s a short walk from the campus to Quayside, which is very scenic and the beach is only a short distance away.
The University has a wide range of facilities. The modern and extensive sports centre was very important to me.
Studying at Newcastle
I did not study A level chemistry or geology, so was apprehensive that I may struggle at the start. But the lecturers are very engaging.
They explain things thoroughly and are happy to help you if you are struggling with any concepts.
Our tutorials always feature other staff with the lecturer. It means you always have plenty of help throughout.
We also have meetings throughout the year with our personal tutor. They're happy to help with any other questions you have by appointment, drop-in or email.
Studying Earth Science
The thing I enjoy most about my course is how hands-on it is.
We have tutorials most weeks where we get to apply the theories we learn in lectures. This can be microscope practicals or working in the labs.
We also spend a lot of time in the field, conducting experiments and mapping. Over Easter, we went on a five-day fieldwork trip to Grange-over-Sands. We applied many of the skills we’d learnt over the year.
This was one of the highlights of my year. I left the fieldwork with a much more in-depth understanding of what I had learnt in classes.
It was a chance to get to know the other people on the course and the lecturers a lot better.
Recommending Newcastle
I would recommend Earth Science at Newcastle to any student interested in geosciences. It is a broad and challenging course.
The modules cover a wide range of skills which challenge you in many fields. They are vital to employability after university.
Living in Newcastle
Newcastle is a beautiful city and the locals are really friendly.
Coming from London, I have really enjoyed living somewhere that is quite a bit smaller. It's still incredibly diverse and interesting.
So many things are all within walking distance. The University is in the centre of town, meaning you are always in the heart of the city.
The nightlife is fantastic with many different clubs, bars and restaurants. You are also only a short Metro ride away from Tynemouth beach, which is another bonus.”
Being social
There are hundreds of clubs and societies on offer on the NUSU website. There are sports teams at both a competitive and recreational level.
If there is a club or society you would like that isn’t offered, you also have the option to start it yourself. They are a great place to meet new people outside of the people on your course or in your halls.
Most sports teams and societies run regular socials. The activities fair at the start of term is a great opportunity to meet the committees and ask questions.
Student accommodation
I lived in Turner Court in my first year, which is an en-suite, self-catered hall. Living in halls is fun, as everyone around you is also a student.
The people in your halls are some of the first people you meet. Everyone is always really friendly and social.
Managing your money
One of my main tips for budgeting is work out as early as possible how much you think you will spend in a week. Look at it in relation to how much you are going to spend in the year in total.
When I received my loan each term, I transferred it all to a different account. Then I moved some of it to my current account each week. It’s really easy to lose track of your spending, especially on a card.
I also have a part-time job with very flexible hours just to make a bit of extra money. I don't have to commit to too many hours as sometimes coursework can pile up and you need to prioritise that.
Future plans
After I complete my course, I would like to do an MSc in Petroleum Geochemistry. I am then hoping to work in oil and gas exploration.
Sporting success
The sports centre at Newcastle is very modern and has an excellent gym. Membership can be either silver or gold level depending on which facilities you want to use. The gold membership is reasonably priced for what you get.
There are sports on offer to all abilities. Sponsorship is available to high performance athletes.
There are some sports where the University doesn’t have the facilities on campus. But they are still offered at rented sites around Newcastle. The gymnastics club runs from a local gymnasium in Walkergate.