Rachel Patton

Where are you from?

Carlisle

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

It was far enough away from home yet close enough for when I got homesick! Two of my brothers also studied here so it was a little bit of a family tradition.

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

It's such a great University City, there's so much to do! I enjoy visiting the quayside market and exploring Ouseburn, an up and coming area just outside the city centre.

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

It surprised me how easy it is to find my way around. There is always public transport to use to get to the beach or to the countryside. I studied at Coach Lane and it was great to be able to catch a free bus or use one of the local bus services to get to University. The thing that impressed me the most was that the shops in the city centre are open until 8pm!

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

Absolutely. I started off studying for a Design degree and realised it wasn't for me. Northumbria made it easy for me to change courses after my first year and I am very thankful for that.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

The independence that you can have and the ability that halls gives you to make new friends and be close to city campus. I was in Knoll Court and loved being able to walk to the city centre, the quayside and the library, all within 10 minutes walk.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

My friends on the design course, we're going to be graduating at the same time and I have so much admiration for the hard work that they put in every day!

Have you joined any sports teams, clubs or been involved in any volunteer projects? Tells us about the highlights?

I have been part of a campus netball team which was fun and I got to meet new people who I would have never known otherwise. We got to use the facilities in Sports Central for free and it was a good way to keep active!

What is the best thing about your course?

Having a variety of lecturers from a diverse range of backgrounds. The course makes you think about societal issues in ways you would never have thought of before.

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

Take lots and lots of notes in lectures!

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'm hoping to work in the inclusive design sector and become a access auditor. The variety of mediums that I was assessed by at uni will help me with this, I had to write reports, essays and take part in debates and presentations. All good skills for the future!

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

I made some contacts in local schools and in second year I completed the Students into Schools module where I went to a local secondary school and was a mentor for three students. Most memorable experience was finding out they had improved their overall grade with my help!

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

Wherever you go, make the most of it and explore the city you're in. You might only be here for three years so have a go, go down a street you're not sure where it leads, you might find a hidden gem!

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

I've definitely become more independent and can see myself living anywhere in the country now, I know I can go to a city and make new friends, I've done it!

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

Opportunistic, exciting journey

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

Yes