Rachel Hodgson

What appealed to you about Northumbria University / studying in Newcastle?

From seeing the University during various open days and completing a summer school, I instantly fell in love with the feel of the University. Everyone was so friendly, the staff were really approachable and it just had that feeling of success about it.

What was it about the course / subject area that particularly appealed?

I was originally going to go into physiotherapy, however with the lack of job opportunities and influence from my Sport Teacher at Sixth Form, I’ve decided to go down the teaching path. By doing Applied Sport Science with Coaching, I’ve heightened my chances of getting on a PGCE course as I will have coaching certificates and experience; also, I have been able to broaden my chances of other possible jobs as the science and physiology can lead me into laboratory work etc, if I so wish to do it.

What qualifications did you have?

I applied through UCAS with the hope of achieving BBC at A level (280 points). Thankfully, I achieved ABC and was confirmed my place.

How did you feel during your first week at Northumbria?

It was really exciting, however a little daunting! The transition from college and university is manageable, however after a three month break, it’s a bit of a culture shock! I was really happy with most of my lecturers, who all seemed as enthusiastic about the subjects as I hope to be.

What do you like most about the course?

I like the coaching side of things the best at the moment, it’s more of what I want to do and I’m familiar with it. On the other hand, although it’s really challenging, I’m enjoying Anatomy and Biomechanics as my lecturer is really enthusiastic and I want to learn and know about the bones etc!

Can you give an example of a piece of work you’ve been involved with recently?

I’m currently working on my first assignment for psychology. It’s proving hard work at the moment, but with perseverance I’m sure I’ll be able to complete something of a high standard. After that I’ll be starting on an assignment for coaching, which should be a little simpler through experience in academic writing.

How do you get on with your tutors?

I get on really well with my tutors, my guidance tutor has been really understanding when I’ve been ill and has given me a lot of reassurance as to what steps to take. Module tutors are varied and some seem more approachable than others, however, all have methods in which to help students in whichever way they can.

Do you have the opportunity for any work placements during your course?

During the 2nd semester I will be doing practical work with coaching this year and also completing a residential in the Lake District as part of the ‘Skills for Sport and Exercise Scientists’ module.

What do you do when you’re not studying?

When I’m not studying I’m at gymnastics on a Tuesday night and I’m also a member of the gym at Sport Central. This is a great way to meet new friends and a different set of people, which is really nice! Also I’m a part of the Student Rep team, whereby I work with schools who come on visits, open days and also summer schools, showing what a great University Northumbria really is. The best things about Newcastle has to be the people that you’re surrounded by, if you’re ever in trouble there’s someone there to help you along the way and brighten your day. Eldon Square and the shopping in Newcastle is really good too, although far too tempting!

What’s your accommodation like?

Living in Camden Court, I’ve fallen on a golden egg! It’s right on the doorstep of City Campus East and it’s five minutes away from nearly everything. The rooms are ample size for what you need, although a little more wardrobe space wouldn’t have been turned down! Because the flats are a combination of six people, you instantly make friends and form close friendships within weeks.

What would you like to do when you graduate?

At the moment I still really strive to be a PE teacher and give back my experience to young people. However, I am fascinated in amputees and disabled sport, and if the opportunity came, I would love to work in that field also.

Have you used Student Services during your course?

To be on the pay roll with the University, I have used the Careers Service. The staff again, were really friendly and wanted to help me in any way they could.

Do you have any advice for anyone applying for your course, or for university in general?

I think the main things to do before you arrive is have a quick read over your college work and notes before you come here, so you have the background knowledge in your mind when going to lectures. I said I was going to do this and ended up not and it’s a bit of a shock turning up to lectures feeling like you’ve never done the course before! In general, I would advise not to get too worried. There’s been loads of occasions where I’ve heard people getting really scared for university, and once you get here, it’s the best thing that could happen. You make friends straight away and everyone’s in the same position so you just laugh at how you’re all feeling.

What three words would you use to describe your time at Northumbria?

Friendly, Modern, Inspiring.