Matthew Kelly

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I had offers from 4 other universities which was nice, but in the end it came down to the course, so I choose Northumbria as it offered the best and most innovative course, and was the only one I was truly interested in.

What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?

Newcastle is big, colourful, vibrant, fun and entrepreneurial. The night life is great if you're in to that, but there's many other things such as sports, art and music all based in a scenic, cultural and generally pretty cool place.

What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?

I've been most surprised by how easy it is to get around and visit many areas of the city. At first I had the impression Newcastle would be a huge, somewhat daunting, metropolis. But actually it feels fairly small and friendly, with all the features of a big, famous city.

Did you find Northumbria University welcoming? Was it easy to fit in?

At first I had my doubts, but in truth it comes down to if you want to be welcomed and make friends or not. Trying hard to fit in can be a pain, but if you just act yourself and stay open minded things will be fine!

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

I've enjoyed how it has opened up many opportunities for me that I didn't really expect it would. Meeting new people, expanding your horizons and networking are all things which come with university I think, at least in my experience, and that's just in the first 8 weeks!

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

I think I've helped myself most by willing to try new things and not giving up at the first hurdle. Keeping an open mind and actually wanting to learn, whether in a classroom or a result of moving away from home, is key in my opinion.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

Hearing success stories of past students is the most inspiring I think. Having met a lady who went here over 2 years ago and listening to her story was great and encourages you to think that anything is possible, which it is! I will also be meeting Sir Jonathan Ive at the end of this week, who is a hugely influential chief designer at Apple, and it's amazing to think that at one point he was in the same position as I am today!

What is your favourite place on campus?

Northumbria Uni High Street. While my course is actually based over the river in the Northern Design Centre, it's always nice to walk down the 'high street' of the uni when going to the gym or the union, as everyone passes through and it's always lively.

Have you joined any sports teams, clubs or been involved in any volunteer projects? Tells us about the highlights?

I haven't joined any sports team as of yet no, but am heavily involved in my course's team 'Infinity Group'! Our entire course is based around team work, so it's a crucial element of everything I do here.

What is the best thing about your course?

The utter freedom and difference from any other course in the country. To be the second year ever to do it here is pretty cool, and we're running actual businesses rather than just talking about doing it in a lecture theatre! The potential is amazing, it just takes a lot of hard work...

What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?

That team work is crucial, and it only works when everyone is fully committed. At the end of the day, however, if you want something done right, you've got to do it yourself, always.

What do you want to do in the future? What skills have you learned/improved that you think will be of most use in your future career?

I want to run my own company that has a massive positive impact on the world in some way or another. I'm not sure exactly what the business will do yet, but I'm working on it...Currently, as part of my course, I am running a company that does a range of different things. The skills learnt from this are crucial, and the spread of things I learn is massive too.

Have you worked on any projects with businesses or been on a placement? What were your most memorable experiences?

As part of my course we work on many projects within our own business. Previous to University, I did multiple placements in a graphic design and web company, as well as shadowing a successful serial entrepreneur in London. I'd say the most memorable experience from any of that was being part of some hugely important and senior business meetings at the age of only 17. Out of my depth is a massive understatement!

Have you taken up any opportunities to travel with your current course/undertake field trips? If so, please tell us about them.

Our course went on a trip to the Calvert Trust adventure centre as part of our initial induction within the first 3 weeks. We haven't travelled anywhere else as of yet though, as we've only been here 8 weeks in total! However, we have plans to do so in the future I think!

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

If it feels right, come here, if it doesn't...go somewhere else. It's as simple as that, just go wherever feels right for you and makes you happy. Also, try and choose the right course as well as University!

How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle (e.g. confidence)?

I'd say the biggest change has been learning to completely fend for myself, in terms of food shopping, cooking, cleaning and washing etc. Growing up is definitely something I've experienced while being here, but also lots of course related things too!

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

Extensive, opportunistic, busy

Would you recommend Northumbria University to a friend?

YES