Nathanne Siqueira da Silva

Where are you from?

I’m from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 

Why did you choose to study in the UK?

The choice to study in the UK was driven by the historical and cultural factors which always caught my attention. However, the choice was determined by the fact that higher education here has a direct link with the industry, preparing students for the real market which enhances the experience abroad.

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle, and what did you know about us before you applied?

I chose Northumbria University as my first choice because the Design for Industry course has a focus on innovative design solution for real problem areas. I was looking for a course that allows me to put my sustainability background from my Brazilian course into innovative projects opportunities here in Newcastle and of course gain more knowledge and tools to achieve academic and professional growth. Before coming, I read about the partnership with multinationals such as Unilever, British Airways, Philips and many others.

What do you most like about Newcastle, and how do you find the city?

Definitely the friendly people, wherever I go, I am always surrounded by nice people and interesting conversations. Newcastle is a vibrant city, with loads of great venues. No matter what you like to do, there is always something going on.

How do you find the cost of living in Newcastle?

The cost of living in Newcastle is lower compared with cities like London and other cities in UK. This is particularly important for students.

Did you find Northumbria University and your Faculty welcoming?

I was impressed by how Northumbria University cares about students wellbeing, especially if you are an International student. There’s always something going on at the Student Union and at the Student Accommodation to make sure that you are having a good time here. One thing I noticed in my Faculty was that the walls were made of glass, so it allows you to be in touch and see what your colleagues are doing and in this way it allows you to interact more and not design in isolation. 

How do you find your tutors and the staff within the Faculty?

The tutors allow you to develop your own ideas, and it is fundamental in a design process. They mentor you to achieve better levels in your projects and bring to the class the professional environment, preparing you for the future. I believe the staff are helpful and collaborative. 

What are the facilities like?

As a design for Industry student it is fundamental to have a great workshop and facilities to transform your ideas for real. Laser cut, vacuum form machine and many others tools are available for us to learn and practice manufacture process and experiment. Also, there’s a nice studio that you spend almost the majority of your time.

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

Innovation, facilities, growth.

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

Embrace the opportunity and be open to this experience. I couldn’t be more happy and satisfied by everything that has happened with this experience. I believe after my time at Design for Industry, it was definitely the right choice for me. Some people ask me why I decided to study at Northumbria when there were so many possibilities of countries and universities but I always knew somehow, that the projects and possibilities here in Newcastle upon-Tyne would be the best.

What are your plans now and for the future?

I will return to Brazil to finish my degree in Product Design. Having had experiences during the exchange with consulting and development projects focused on sustainability and innovation, I would like to go deeper into this branch. I would like to do a Masters as well.

What skills would you say you have gained/improved since the start of your course and what new knowledge of your subject area have you learnt so far on your course?

The highlights of my experience here has two opportunities to work with experienced and interesting people who wants make a difference in the world.

First, an opportunity to make a project with tutors at Northumbria and a group of undergraduate design students. Call "Salon Project", this project reaffirmed my convictions on how a designer must be innovative, ethical and think outside the box about materials, processes and product life cycle. A space for dialogue and practice among professionals and students interested in the reinvention of everyday products with the current needs of the consumer, society and the environment. With this scenario, learning was a natural process. For my surprise, the project was presented at  DIF - Disruptive Innovation Festival.

Second, an opportunity to be part of a research project between Northumbria University and Unilever PLC in the Summer period.

How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I recognise this exchange program as a great opportunity for personal and professional growth. With the job market becoming increasingly competitive and challenging, the search for better qualifications and ability to dialogue with different cultures is essential.