Interview with Michelle Bowser

What is your name and what are you studying? 

My name is Michelle and I'm studying Law. 

Why did you choose your course? 

I originally enrolled to study Psychology as I have always had an interest, however after starting the course I quickly realised it wasn't what I expected.  Due to personal reasons I decided to change to Law for which I am glad, as I am getting so much out of it already and am finding it very interesting and quite easy (at the moment). 

What did Foundation Year mean to you?  

I didn't even consider a foundation course, I expected to enrol and go straight into the first year of my course, my results from school, which were a long time ago, didn't allow this so didn't really have a choice.  Looking back now I'm in my first year, I know it would have been too much for me without the foundation year easing me into the work, I probably wouldn't have stuck at it and given up after the first semester.  Learning the basics from foundation I could concentrate on the subject of Law and its contents instead of worrying about the structure of and referencing essays.  I have also gained a little experience in presentations and speaking in front of my tutors and fellow students.  My knowledge of computers and technology wasn't great, so I gained experience with that too making my first year a lot easier than it could of been. 

Knowing what you know now, what would you have told yourself at the start of your Foundation Year?  

 If I could start foundation year again I would do more or less the same, I attended nearly every session available, unless I couldn't due to illness.  I think I prepared quite well for every assignment however sometimes I started and completed them before we had the lecture meaning I had to rewrite parts of them, I would probably start early but do a little at a time after every lecture to make sure I had captured everything.  I didn't use the library as much as I should of or could of.  Looking back although I did well, I would work a little harder and appreciate the opportunity of learning a lot more to give myself more of a head start into my 1st year, especially in the subject I am now studying. 

What’s been the highlight of your studies so far?  

The highlight of my studying was my results, being the age I am I didn't expect such good results, especially as I have not studied since I left school.  If I had known I was going to do so well I would of tried even harder to get better results. 

 
What do you think is unique to the Newman experience?  

Newman was the only University I explored but hearing experiences from friends at other Universities I know I have chosen the best place.  When I visited for the first time everyone was very accommodating, the atmosphere was comfortable and relaxed.  I felt at home and settled in really quickly even though I am probably one of the more mature students.  The staff are very helpful, encouraging and knowledgeable, always available to answer questions or signpost to the correct department.  The staff in the library and student support are a godsend for help outside of the classroom.  There is ample choice from the canteen and the staff are brilliant.  There is also help for students who struggle with finances from the welfare team and a discreet room offering free food and drinks which I think is very generous.
 

What are your plans for the future?  

I have not decided what I will do with my degree (If I am fortunate to get one) but so far, my knowledge has helped me tremendously. Hopefully I can help others along the way.  Hopefully I will have a better idea what I will do with my knowledge when I learn a lot more.