Written by Steven Tan
Embarking on a postgraduate studies journey is an exciting and transformative experience that acts as a catalyst for personal and academic growth. As a postgraduate student from Malaysia, it is a thrilling and eye-opening experience for me to be pursuing a postgraduate study at Newcastle University.
Studying at a top university, has given me the opportunity to immerse myself in an intellectual academic community while enjoying the vibrant student life. In this blog post, I will take you through a typical day in my life as a postgraduate student at Newcastle University, highlighting the academic pursuits, social interactions, and valuable experiences that shape my postgraduate journey.
Morning Routine
In the morning, I usually love to start my day with a warm cup of coffee, which helps to set the tone for a productive day ahead. I usually wake up 1 hour before class, enjoying my cup of coffee, and take a few moments to plan my schedule. By planning my schedule, I am able to gain clarity on how my day will look to maximise productivity.
Academic Pursuits
In terms of my academic pursuits, as a postgraduate student, my days are primarily focused on attending lectures, seminars, and workshops which help me gain a deep understanding of my chosen field of study. These sessions are led by knowledgeable professors and occasionally industry experts invited in by the professors, to provide valuable insights and foster engaging discussions.
In addition to attending classes, I allocate a significant portion of my day to independent research for my assignments. The Newcastle University Business School is a wonderful place for self-study, as there are many tables with comfortable chairs for me to complete my research.
Collaboration and Networking
As a postgraduate student at Newcastle University, collaborations and networking among students are strongly encouraged and integrated into our course of study. Throughout the day, I usually find myself engaging in group discussions, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative projects with my classmates, which allow us to learn from each other’s knowledge and experience and often resulting in brilliant ideas for our group assignments. Personally, my favourite spot for group discussions is the Newcastle University Business School Student Hub, located at Level 5 of the Business School, which is a vibrant space for students to discuss and work on their assignments.
Lunch Break
One of my favourite moments throughout the day is the break between classes, as it allow us to recharge and prepare ourselves for classes and activities. Newcastle University provides affordable meals for students, and it is something that I cherish daily. With only £1, I am able to nourish myself with a wholesome meal. Sharing a meal with my fellow friends allows us to engage in informal conversations and strengthen our friendships.
Professional Development
As a postgraduate student, it is extremely important for us to develop ourselves professionally beyond academic studies. Newcastle University often provide numerous workshops, seminars, and career development programs that enhance our professional skill set. I often attend these sessions to gain insights into industry trends, develop my soft skills, and enhance my employability. These opportunities are invaluable for my personal and professional growth, equipping me with the skillset necessary for success in my chosen field.
Extracurricular Activities
I believe that an enriching student life consists of exciting extracurricular activities which helps maintain a healthy work-life balance. Newcastle University Student Union provides a wide range of extracurricular activities catering to diverse interests. Personally, I have been actively involved in the Ultimate Frisbee sports club, which I have had the honour to represent Newcastle University to compete with various universities.
I have also been an active member of the Newcastle A Cappella society, which I have had the pleasure to perform in multiple showcases in Leeds and Newcastle. Furthermore, I have also been actively participating in the Malaysian society, Entrepreneurship society, and Consulting society where I connect with like-minded individuals on a professional level. These activities allow myself to detach from academic life, establish lasting friendships and have a colourful student life, worth remembering years after graduating from the university.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my postgraduate studies at Newcastle University have been an exciting and transformative experience. From being challenged intellectually with academic studies to exciting extra-curricular activities, my days are filled with opportunities for growth and self-development. The supportive academic environment, collaborative work with my classmates, and a diverse range of extracurricular activities have all enriched my postgraduate study experience.
As I transition through this exciting chapter of my life, I would forever be grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have obtained at Newcastle University, as I strongly believe that these experiences will contribute greatly to my personal and professional growth.