Meet Bernardo
Law PhD
Hi, I’m Bernardo, a full-time PhD Law student. I came to the UK from Brazil because I believed studying abroad would enrich my academic experience. I applied to other universities but realised Newcastle offered the best opportunities.
Newcastle is a much smaller city than Rio de Janeiro, but both share a welcoming atmosphere. What stands out to me about Newcastle is how walkable it is - you can get almost anywhere on foot in a short amount of time. This makes day-to-day life easier and more enjoyable.
After I finish my PhD, I’d love to stay in academia and teach. Getting my PhD alongside the training and experiences at Newcastle, I feel that I’m closer to realising this goal.
A friendly environment
The Language Resource Centre (LRC) is one of my favourite things about Newcastle University. The LRC emphasises the importance of multilingualism and provides a supportive and friendly environment.
Through the LRC, I’ve had the privilege of working as a Student Language Ambassador (SLA). This role has allowed me to refine my presentation and communication skills and provided a fulfilling way to engage with the local community, boosting my overall wellbeing.
The staff are incredibly approachable and supportive. They work tirelessly to ensure that every student feels valued and empowered, both academically and socially.
Creating an inclusive community
I’m part of the Postgraduate Research Community, a student society run by the Students’ Union. As the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) Officer, I organise and participate in events including discussion groups.
We address the unique challenges faced by postgraduate researchers. I love facilitating these discussions because they help postgraduate research students feel heard and supported, improving their overall university experience. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see participants connect, share insights, and foster a sense of community.
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