Joshua Lumsden

Criminology

Where are you from?

County Durham

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I chose Northumbria because of the location to the city centre. Also, the Criminology Department stood out.

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

Newcastle is an amazing place to live, there's always something to do. You could go out any night of the week and it will be busy. Alternatively, if that's not your thing, there's lots of societies to join!

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

I lived pretty close to Newcastle anyway so the atmosphere wasn't much of a surprise. The majority of people from Newcastle are really friendly people, which is what people love about the city.

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

Northumbria was welcoming, the best thing to do is to remember that everyone is in the same position. Start chatting with others on your course and you'll make lots of friends in no time.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

One of the things I like the most is how friendly and helpful the staff are, you can approach them about anything and they'll do their best to help. If they aren't in the office then they always reply to emails quickly.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

My friends have helped me the most, with everyday things. With university related things my guidance tutor, Dr Jamie Harding has helped me a lot. Also a new member of staff Dr Matt Jones has helped me massively with the Criminology Society that we've just set up.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

I wouldn't say that any one person has inspired me, more like a collection of people. From guest lecturers, lecturers at the university, to other students.

What is your favourite place on campus?

My favourite place has to be Lipman Cafe, it is really chilled out, you can grab some food or just log on to a computer if that's what you want. The staff in there are really friendly and helpful too.

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

I have launched the Criminology Society along with three other students. We have set this up to help bring students closer together, but to also improve their career prospers for when they leave.

What is the best thing about your course?

The best thing about the course is that any experience you have gained beforehand, such as volunteering experience can really help you. The lecturers have lots of contacts, so if you're trying to gain extra experience they can really help with that. The placement modules also seem like amazing modules as you get credit for attending a placement such as a prison. I've chosen to take a placement module next year.

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

A lesson I have learnt is not to leave things to the last minute, doing that essay the night before is never good. Another lesson would be to put in 100%. Employers want the best people for the job, develop your skills at university then in the workplace you'll be perfect.

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'm certain that a career within the Criminal Justice System is something I'd love. I'm interested in the Police Service so that would most likely be a career route I'd take. You learn so much about the Criminal Justice System so any job within that you'll do well in.

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

I have chosen to take a placement module next year which I'm looking forward to. The most memorable experience with the Criminology Society was having a guest lecture from Ron Hogg, Durham's Police and Crime Commissioner. We have lots of exciting things planned for next year too!

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

We have had trips to the local Magistrates Courts, we saw how the court system worked and saw justice being served.

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

The best advice I could offer is don't leave your work till the last minute and to gain as much experience as you can; whether thats volunteering or helping out with the Students' Union.

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

I think I've developed as a person and feel more confident when dealing with people. I also think my knowledge has massively improved with all things criminal justice related.