Emma Newman

Where are you from?

Carlisle, Cumbria

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I've always wanted to go to northumbria because I love newcastle as a city and the Uni has a really good reputation for its nursing degree, along with great facilities.

What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?

I love Newcastle because it's not too far away from home if I need some home comforts but it's also far enough to be independent. The nightlife and shops are an added bonus. I have friends and family over here which is really good for the social side. I would say my favourite things to do are taking my labrador to Tynemouth beach, being on the quayside and going out with the girls. 

What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?

I have been to newcastle many times so there wasn't any real surprises, except finding silver link 5 minutes from my house which was great. The people are so friendly here.

Did you find Northumbria University welcoming? Was it easy to fit in?

Yes very, really easy to make friends with day 1. I think a lot of nurse students have similar personalities which probably helped a lot to fit in too.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

Meeting new lifelong friends (I hope) and having a really close bond with them all as we're all going through the same scary experiences at the same time.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

Most of the lecturers inspire me because they just have so much knowledge and experience that I want them to pass on to me :)

What is your favourite place on campus?

I'd say in the summer probably just outside reception because it's a little sun trap and everyone gathers there with friends, and in the winter the cafe near the library because it's nice and open, modern and warm and a nice area to chat

What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?

Reflect on everything you do (nursing degree drums this into you from the start) because you can learn from it and stand up for what you know isn't the right way to do things.

What do you want to do in the future? What skills have you learned/improved that you think will be of most use in your future career?

I'd love to go on to do a top up degree in learning disability nursing because I enjoy working with that sector of people and find it incredibly rewarding. Again reflect and improve, listen and enjoy which I think I can take into anything I do in the future.

Have you worked on any projects with businesses or been on a placement? What were your most memorable experiences?

I have only been on one placement so far, about to start my community placement soon which I'm really looking forward to because I have enjoyed working in the community in the past as I find everyday is different and meet new people.

Have you taken up any opportunities to travel with your current course/undertake field trips? If so, please tell us about them.

I have applied to do part of my placement abroad in third year which isn't until 2016 so I've got a while to wait but nursing students don't really get the opportunity to go on field trips which is a shame. I'm not sure where we could go really though.

If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?

I would say most definitely go for it, the support is fantastic, the lecturers are so knowledgable in what they do and newcastle as a city will give you a fab student experience.

How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle (e.g. confidence)?

I would say the more knowledge I'm getting, the more confident I'm becoming in my nursing student self, but as a person I think I've become a lot more independent and understanding.

If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?

Friends for life.

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

Yes and in fact I have. My friend is starting her PGCE this September.