Home → International Students → Student Testimonials → Silvana Abecasis Requena

Student Testimonial

Name: Silvana Abecasis Requena
Age: 27
Sex: Female
Country: Argentina/Spain
Course: Master in Music (Piano)

Chose Newcastle

' I first came to Newcastle because my husband got a scholarship to do a PhD here. Then I knew that the University was very good, so I decided to continue with my studies as well. I thought it was the best way of using my time, incorporating to the society (especially the university life) and to broaden my possibilities when I go back to Argentina. '

The Best Things

' The quality of the lecturers and the variety of good concerts held in the hall of the Conservatorium. It’s also very nice the personal attention by the administrative staff. '

Future Studies and Career

' In Argentina there are not postgraduate courses in performance, so it will be useful to have a Master in performance to find a job in music institutions. Also, because of the fast speed of the courses I’m learning to prepare concerts faster than ever and that definitely will help me to work in performance. '

What do you like most about Newcastle Life?

' Everything! If you want to be quiet, you can. And also there are many activities to do. Any kind of social activities, sports and arts. During the 2 years I’ve been here I’ve been taking salsa lessons (dancing), doing yoga, playing soccer for the first time in my life (and enjoying it very much!), swimming and other kinds of gym. The Forum [sports center] has excellent installations. And being a student you get concession for many things, so your money lasts longer. '

Are you happy with the support?

' Yes, it’s very good. When I first arrived I went to English lessons for the spouses of the students (free of charge) that was a great support and very good to meet people in the same situation as me. Later, being a student I have found that you can always rely on the staff of the University. I’ve received help when I needed an extension with a paper. '

My Advice

' You should try to find a place to live in downtown because it’s closer to everything (especially if you are not planning to buy a car), you have the train that takes you to uni in 12 minutes and many buses to go to different places. I think it also a good idea to try to share apartment with an Australian so you really learn the language and you use the time you are here experiencing the culture (like going to pubs!). Prepare yourself to get used different times, here shops close at 5 pm (but we have late shopping on Thursdays), and many people have dinner at 7pm. So don’t be too late to go to the restaurant! (Just in case, there is a supermarket and a fast food place open all night long, and that’s also near downtown). '

Back to student testimonials