Brittany
MChem Chemistry with Industrial Placement Year.
Choosing Newcastle
I chose Newcastle after visiting the university and looking round the department. Everyone, staff and students, were really welcoming. The university also has a good reputation and good graduate employment rates which was really important to me.
About your course
The best reason for studying Chemistry is that you don’t have to decide what career you want at the age of 18. Chemistry is a highly-regarded degree and for me, it was ensuring I was leaving all career options open.
I have enjoyed the subject of Chemistry a lot more than I had expected to because it’s obvious that the lecturers here love their subject and value student participation and engagement.
Career aspirations
I am still unsure of where exactly I want to take my career however I know that studying Chemistry at Newcastle University has given me good foundations in order to achieve any future ambitions.
Living in Newcastle
I love being a student in Newcastle because the university is great and so is the city. The city of Newcastle is a lot smaller than I expected but has all the qualities of a big city. There are loads of societies and clubs you can join so there really is something for everyone.
Three ‘top tips’
- Ask lots of questions in lectures, tutorials and labs because it’s the best way to learn
- Join as many societies as you can because it’s a really good way to make friends
- Apply for summer internships/work experience, particularly in 1st and 2nd year, as lots of companies offer schemes and it’s a great way to enhance your CV and create contacts
Remembering Newcastle
It was definitely having the opportunity to work towards my degree whilst being employed by a chemical company for a year. The experience has been eye-opening and life changing.