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Meet Nouhad

Communication and Language Sciences PhD

About Nouhad

I had always wanted to find a PhD programme that would answer my expectations and my scientific curiosity. I had completed my Masters degree in France in 2011 and I was working as a research assistant and a lecturer at St Joseph University of Beirut. But it didn’t feel enough. I’ve always wanted to study in the UK. Being multilingual has been a huge advantage for me. 


Settling into Newcastle

I was surprised to see how beautiful Newcastle is and how nice people are. I have made many friends (students and parents) who are very supportive and helpful. 


Academic support

I have accessed academic and research support services provided by the University, including training workshops and guidance related to research skills and professional development. I have also attended English language support classes, which have helped me strengthen my academic communication and confidence. These services have been very helpful in supporting my progress and development as a PhD student. 

What stood out most about this course was the professionalism, student supervision and support, as well as the quality of requirements, especially in terms of what we are expected to achieve and present as PhD students. Newcastle really stands out!


Advice for future students

Completing a PhD degree means diving deep into a topic that fascinates you while gaining multidisciplinary knowledge about several aspects of research.  

It can get hard, confusing, and lonely at times but it’s worth the effort, the time and the struggle. I can't imagine myself not being where I am right now. 


Future ambitions

The university and particularly my supervisors set the bar high for me, and I would never accept to work in any setting that would not match this standard. 

I’ve always wanted to do a PhD but I was worried about how it might affect my job, my family, and my social life. The decision to finally enrol onto the programme was a turning point for my life. I'm very happy with my progress and how Newcastle has helped me in so many ways: building resilience, courage, determination and reflexivity. 

This degree is for ambitious and hardworking students who want high quality education in an inclusive and supportive environment. 

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