Identical Gateshead twins who have had "twice the fun" will graduate one day apart during Newcastle University's summer congregation.

Lisa and Laura Davison, 21, from Sheriff Hill will receive their degrees this week.

Lisa is receiving her BA Honours degree in History on July 10, followed by Laura’s BA Honours award in Music on July 11. Despite graduating from different programmes and on different dates, the pair have been best friends, mentors and a source of motivation for each other during their studies.

Lisa is thankful to her sister for helping her stay focused and organised when working on challenging essays and her undergraduate dissertation. She said: “Laura has helped me to proofread my papers and to identify any weaknesses and room for improvement. Her feedback has been very useful and supportive.”

Laura, on the other hand, has relied on Lisa to cheer her up and keep her going during the long hours of rehearsals for concerts and her final recital. She said: “We both started playing brass instruments at the age of ten, but I was the only one to pursue a degree in Music. However, Lisa has helped me with her experience and performed alongside me on various occasions. In April we performed Verdi’s Requiem together with a symphony orchestra at the Sage, and there were more than 1000 in the audience. This has been one of the most amazing experiences in my life. We have also performed at Windsor Castle which was very exciting.”

The duo have been so happy with their time at Newcastle that they also signed up to be student ambassadors, travelling to schools across the region to explain to pupils the reality and benefits of university life.

They have also been student mentors, supporting fellow students to get the most out of their time at Newcastle.

These extracurricular activities have equipped Lisa and Laura with a variety of skills and boosted their confidence. Lisa explained: "The most important skills we have learned are teamwork, communication and problem solving skills. We believe they will give us an edge as we follow the pursuit of further knowledge and embark on our careers." 

Lisa decided to pursue a degree in history at Newcastle University because of the reputation of the University and to be closer to her family. She will start a Master’s programme in European History at Newcastle University in September. After completing her postgraduate degree, Lisa aspires to become a History or Special Education teacher. She will continue playing the trumpet and perform with her twin-sister.

Laura plays the trombone and the sackbut – a trombone from the Renaissance and Baroque eras. She has applied for a Master’s of Music at Newcastle University to pursue her passion and love for music. Laura’s goal is to now become a professional musician.

Laura added: “The more you put in to your time at the university, the more you get out. We’ve made many friends, met faculty and staff members and performed throughout the country, and thanks to Lisa I’ve had double the fun throughout.”

published on: 11 July 2013