Meet Eleanor
Media, Communication and Cultural Studies BA
Why did you choose to study at Newcastle?
I chose Newcastle because the course stood out from others I had applied too. The range of modules allows me to design my degree to suit me. It helps me to focus on my interests and passions, making learning more fulfilling. I've had the flexibility to not only write essays but create presentations in groups, make practical video and audio pieces too.
Newcastle also appealed to me as a city because it is such a welcoming place to live. Everything is in walking distance and with the coast being easily accessible on the Metro it means that you get the best of both worlds.
Prior to arriving, I thought that lectures might be serious and intimidating, but all the teaching staff at Newcastle have been so friendly and welcoming. Their passion for their subject is palpable, and you can't help but been inspired by it.
Applying through PARTNERS
I received a lot of support when applying to Newcastle from my head of Sixth Form. They read through my personal statement and encouraged me to look at programmes such as PARTNERS. UCAS can seem daunting, especially if there's no one you know has done it before. However, there is a lot of guidance online to help with the process, including personal statement guides on Newcastle University's website.
Like most students it was the unknown that scared me the most and knowing I had to meet a certain offer. Focus on yourself and don't compare your revision to anyone else. Although it is important to achieve certain grades, it is also important to showcase why you would suit the degree you are applying for. Make sure to demonstrate a passion and a keen interest to learn in your personal statement, not just your academic success.
Societies and activities
Since the start of my first year, I have been a member of the Media and Journalism society. Because of joining, I have met some great friends and dressed up in some interesting costumes. They also host summer and winter balls, which you can tell the committee works really hard to organise.
Outside my studies I like to get out in nature to decompress. Me and my friends will often go to Jesmond Dene or Long Sands beach. As well as this, we enjoy going into Jesmond for a pub quiz, although we don't often win!
My future in public relations
I came into university unsure about where my passions really lie and wanting to try things out. I have now learnt about journalism, marketing and PR and have been able to discover what truly excites me, and what I would like to spend my life doing.
I hope to work in public relations working in house. In particular working with a charity or start-up excites me the most. This is because it offers the chance to make a real impact and gets hands on with all that a career in communications can offer.
By being around likeminded people in societies I have found motivation to push myself harder and really throw myself at any opportunities I can.
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