Meet Carly

Realising my future

My current degree has helped me better understand the kinds of environments I enjoy working in, as well as those that I don't. It has also broadened my perspective on both careers and opportunities, from the diversity of backgrounds and experiences shared by lecturers, alongside the course content itself.

My involvement in student media has probably had the biggest impact on my confidence and career direction. Through working across newspaper, radio, and TV, I developed industry-standard skills and gained hands-on experience using professional tools.

We are taught by industry leaders and academics with both industry experience and academic rigour. Particularly in Russell Group institutions, I think that's quite rare.

I also enjoyed the selection of optional modules, and that was a big draw when I was deciding between courses. I feel that my optional modules in law and politics have really enriched my PR studies. Also, the staff team are all particularly supportive and genuinely want the students to succeed.

I was surprised at how diverse a community Newcastle University is. There are staff and students from all walks of life, and that is an incredible thing to boast. There are younger people and older, home students, local students, and international. There is always room for improvement, but having such a diverse community enriches everyone's experiences.

Studying Media and Public Relations

I think students who enjoy combining theory with practical experience would get a great deal from the Media and Public Relations course. There is a strong balance between the two. One thing I particularly like is that students can choose between completing a dissertation or a final project in the last semester. 

The final project feels much more applied and industry-focused, whereas the dissertation offers a more research-intensive experience. Having both options means students can tailor the course to their own goals and interests.  

The course offers the best of both worlds: academic rigour alongside practical skills that are relevant to working in public relations. It is definitely an intensive course at times, but that also makes it rewarding to be part of. 

I was lucky enough to be invited to join Newcastle Student Radio at the recent Student Radio Conference in Salford. We had the opportunity to tour the BBC in Media City and attend some really interesting talks and workshops. I was a little bit interested in broadcast media and presenting, but after exploring that interest more, I might take it forwards into my future career.

Start Up and NCL+ Internship Scheme

The most valuable student service I have accessed was Start Up through the Careers Service at Newcastle University. 

The team brings a range of experience to make their opportunities worthwhile for students. They also create a strong sense of community and I've especially enjoyed the coffee social events.

Students can meet founders, build connections, and learn from people with very different career paths and experiences. The workshops and networking opportunities throughout the year have also been incredibly valuable.

Throughout my four years at Newcastle University, I've had the opportunity to work in several roles through the NCL+ Internship Scheme. This has influenced my confidence, interests, and professional experience.

One of my first roles was as a Research Assistant at the Campus for Ageing and Vitality. I worked on a medical technology project focused on wearable technology for tracking sarcopenia.

I also worked as a Project Management Intern on an exhibition exploring the intersection of science, music, and art. Through this role, I developed experience in volunteer management, venue sourcing, event curation and promotion.

Alongside this, I have also supported the communications strategy for a global health project at the university. I love playing a small role in something so impactful, and I wanted to help communicate that impact more effectively and confidently to a wider audience.

Writing and presenting opportunities

I have been involved in many student societies and activities and most notably was my role in student media. I have presented with NUTV at Fight Night and presented and produced my own show on Newcastle Student Radio.

I was also heavily involved in The Courier, where I have been TV Sub-Editor, Head of Culture, and a writer. I was lucky enough to be named as Courier Writer of the Year in 2026 and shortlisted for Student Publication Association Awards in previous years.

Outside of media, I was involved in Newcastle University Theatre Society as a producer and Newcastle University Fashion Society as Modelling Director.

I enjoyed working with talented, dedicated students to produce a final product, a play and a fashion show. I would also add that meeting people with similar ambitions and interests is a great way to make friends.