Chris Wood

What is your favourite thing about the University?

The helpfulness of staff and their enthusiasm for you to be involved in their
work. Also the high-tech facilities provide a great study environment.

What appealed to you about Northumbria and studying in Newcastle?

Location, opportunity to study full or part-time, graduate discount, good reputation, and the BPS accreditation of the Masters. I also really enjoyed my experience as an undergraduate at Northumbria as the University has a good vibe and is full of life and energy. It has a really good Students’ Union with loads going on and a great mix of students. The facilities are excellent and the University is really making waves in the academic world as far as research is
concerned.

What are the best things about Newcastle for students?

Accommodation is some of the most reasonably priced in England, giving you the opportunity to spend money enjoying yourself. Newcastle is a vibrant place. It has loads of students who give the city a certain character, but it also has the Geordie spirit; passion, pride and a sense of humour that doesn’t take life too seriously.

What are you doing now?

Gaining as much psychology and research related experience as possible. I initially wanted to be an educational psychologist and although I haven’t ruled this out, I have now become interested in clinical psychology or becoming a lecturer/researcher at a university, particularly in cognitive neuroscience. For now though my plan is to gain as much experience as I can and obtain a place on a PhD course.

Do you have any advice for anyone applying for University?

The most important thing is to undertake something you enjoy and are interested in. Do your research, visit the university and make sure it is right for you. If you have any doubts, take a year out and bide your time to make the right decision because it will affect the rest of your life. The other vital thing is look at your job
prospects. Some degrees offer far better job prospects than others, you need to be aware of your opportunities and consider your choice of degree within the ‘big picture’ of what you are going to do with your life.