Rafaella, Mathematics BSc Honours
Nationality: Cypriot “The student community is very friendly and supportive within my subject. I immediately made new friends through the lectures and problem classes where we all shared ideas about each topic.”
About Rafaella
Why did you choose to study your degree at Newcastle University?
I always enjoyed studying mathematics during my school years. I found the subject really fascinating because of how challenging it was. I believe that everything involves mathematics and in all jobs there will be something related to mathematics. I chose Newcastle University because of its well-earned reputation and the positive comments I heard from people in my hometown, who studied at Newcastle University. The city is well designed for students and that was a big motive behind my decision.
What was the support from the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics like when you first started?
In my first year of studying at Newcastle University I felt really supported by the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics. As a new student entering Stage 1 of university, it is normal to feel lost stepping into something new. However, our Transition Officer did a great job of keeping us up to date about everything and offered additional support for all of the modules. One of the things that I also found really helpful was the revision given at the beginning of the Semester 1 to help us refresh our memory. My Personal Tutor also offers great academic and well-being support.
Are you enjoying your degree? Can you tell us about some of your highlights to date?
I very much enjoy the Mathematics degree because it is challenging and there is always something to work for, therefore it is really difficult for the course to become monotonous. The highlights of my degree would be the people and friends I made and learning about their different backgrounds and cultures. I also enjoy the interaction with other students in the problem classes which involve groups of students reflecting, problem solving and sharing their ideas.
What has your favourite module been so far?
My favourite module so far would be Vector Calculus and Differential Equations, since Applied Mathematics is my favourite. The module is very understandable and enjoyable and the lecturers that teach it make it easy to follow along. I will for sure choose modules that are similar to this in Stage 3.
What is the student community like within your subject?
The student community is very friendly and supportive within my subject. I immediately made new friends through the lectures and problem classes where we all shared ideas about each topic and helped one another in areas we found difficult. It is comforting to know that students in the area that you study can provide company and support.
Are you a member of any societies? If so, could you tell us how you got involved in them and what you enjoy about them?
I am a member of the Greek & Cypriot Society since I am myself a Greek-Cypriot international student. I found out about the society from a Newcastle Greek and Cypriot society gathering in Cyprus. This was very helpful towards all freshers from Cyprus going into the first year of university, as the society provided us with very useful information about the university and lifestyle at Newcastle. The Greek & Cypriot society hosts various fun events and activities that make us international students feel closer to home.
What is your favourite thing about Newcastle as a city?
Newcastle is a very beautiful, friendly and welcoming city. I really enjoy studying here because it is the perfect student city for all students and especially international. With its beautiful sights and friendly citizens, it is easy to say I feel safe studying here. One of my favourite things here is that the locals are very friendly and being an international student I always felt welcomed and accepted by everyone here. I enjoy how happy and lively the people are in this city which inspires me to have a positive attitude in general. Being an international student can be hard in several ways, however Newcastle as a city makes student life a bit more homely and enjoyable.
What advice would you give to international students considering studying your degree at Newcastle University?
To the students that are considering studying Mathematics at Newcastle University, the best advice I could give is that even though Mathematics is a very demanding subject you should not be afraid to go for it if it is something you enjoy doing. The degree will for sure need hard work and a lot of time studying, but this can be done if you are focused on your goal. The support and extra office hours from the University can help overcome any difficulties you have with the modules. I believe that international students who are considering studying Mathematics in Newcastle will be making the right choice as the transition and settling down from their own city to Newcastle will not be that difficult.