Helen Nicholls

Northumbria University helped me get the grades I needed to be a member of the largest Immunology company in the UK. My passion for biology was all influenced by my Grandpa who first got me interested in plants and my love for biology grew from there. My time at Northumbria was filled with ups and downs but the lecturers made it worth the hard times.

What are you doing now?

I am currently waiting to start my dream job as a Laboratory Technician for the UK's biggest Immunology company, The Binding Site.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

I did not feel as though I had the grades to study at Newcastle, Northumbria offered me the chance to show that I did have the grades and the knowledge to study a university degree. Northumbria also appealed to me via their choice of courses.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

There was a good mix of lectures, seminars, team projects and practical lessons. All of the feedback was constructive and drove me to better myself.

What was the best thing about your course?:

The lecturers. They were all so kind and caring not just about the work which needed to be done but they also cared about the students personal life and went out of their way to let the students know if they needed support or to just sit and listen.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

Northumbria gave me the knowledge as well as the practical skills which have impressed my future employer which is how I got my dream job. The diversity of knowledge I was taught also stood out dramatically.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

My practical laboratory skills. As a laboratory technician I have Northumbria University to thank for allowing me the skills and knowledge which has allows me to obtain this job.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

The people on my course and the lecturers. You could also have a laugh and carry on in the class and the lecturers would join in. I will always be thankful to the friends I made in university.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

Just because your grades are lower and you came from a poor background, doesn't mean you can't make it through university. If you put in the work, you will be able to achieve your goal.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Life changing experience.