North East England

Position : Mechanical Engineer
Company : New abd Renewable Energy Centre
Location : Blyth, Northumberland

"Newcastle was the only university where I could do mechanical engineering and study in Spain, without any previous knowledge of Spanish.  That was important because I like learning new languages.  After my Masters, I went to a networking event at the University where I met a guy from Narec (New and Renewable Energy Centre) who said: ‘We do three month placements in the summer if you fancy it’.  I thought, that sounds perfect!  I’d always wanted to get into renewable energies.
 
After two months, they offered me a full-time contract.  Because the company is so high profile in our field, our department (mechanical engineering) has doubled and I’ve been given lots of responsibility – much more than if I was in another job.  It’s challenging and fulfilling.  And they’ve offered to fund me through a PhD at Durham University.  A lot of people never get that option so I feel quite privileged. 

Newcastle is a really good place to live  -  a lot of people go to London, for obvious reasons.  I thought about it, but the quality of life is better here.  There’s cleaner air, and I’m next to the coast.  I’ve taken up surfing, at Tynemouth, which is really good fun.  I play football, squash and badminton during the week.  And I’m a fan of Newcastle United.
 
Plus, in Newcastle there’s a really good night out.  It’s not too big, and the Geordie people are really friendly.  When joining new sports clubs, the people are always welcoming and make an effort to help you join in.  There’s also a lot of cultural things.  I go to the Baltic Art Gallery at the newly regenerated Gateshead Quays quite a bit and I’ve been to a few performances at the Sage music centre.  They are both amazing buildings.

What does it for me is the friendly people, the renewable energy aspect, the great social and nightlife in Newcastle and, of course, the countryside, which is quite beautiful."