Hi ,

We hope that the assessment period is going well and that you’re looking forward to summer – it’s nearly here!

Get ready for life after university with top tips from 2023 alumna Sara Kozakova on transitioning into graduate life. Remember, our Careers Service is here to support you now - and for up to three years after you graduate!  

We also share information about the Graduate Outcomes Survey so you’ll know what to expect when the time comes. 

Thanks to your survey contributions earlier this year, we're excited to share news of our success in the WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025.

Best of luck for the future - and see you for in the summer for Congregations!

Dr Yvonne Chase 

Head of Student Life 

Industrial Action

On 22 May 2025, the University and College Union (UCU), which represents academics, lecturers, researchers and administrators at Newcastle University, announced that its members would take further discontinuous strike action between 6 June and 17 July.

We want to reassure you that our goal is to minimise the impact of any strike action on your educational experience and we have procedures in place to achieve this. We have updated our industrial action webpage and FAQs so please view these resources for further information and support.

🎓 Top tips for the Class of 2025

All your hard work at university has paid off and you’ll soon be the proud owner of a Newcastle University degree – congratulations! To help you transition to graduate life, we spoke with Class of 2023 alumna Sara Kozakova to get her top tips.

1. Do what you love

You don’t have to separate your interests and passions from your work: find what motivates you and pursue it.

2. The importance of networking

I wouldn’t be where I am today if I didn’t meet my now manager at a networking event and connect with her on LinkedIn! Start growing your professional network now by joining the private LinkedIn group for Newcastle graduates.

3. The power of ‘yes’

Every experience you have will help you in some kind of way. I say yes to most opportunities because you never know where it might lead and who you might meet.

On graduation day, visit the Lindisfarne Room to meet the Alumni team to learn about the benefits of being a Newcastle graduate!

💼 Interviews, tests and assessment centres

It’s that time of the year when looking for a job steps up a notch! Whether you’re applying for graduate level jobs, summer internships or part-time jobs, interviews, tests and assessment centres form an integral part of the application process.

With anything like this, preparation is key, and the Careers Service is here to help! Get advice and resources to help your prepare for recruitment tests and interviews and learn what you can expect at assessment centres on Careers Service website.

 ✨ Make a difference to people like you

Before you go, we want to tell you about The Graduate Outcomes survey. We know it’s early, but around 15 months after you graduate, the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) will get in touch to ask about your journey after university.

This national survey helps shape the future of higher education. By sharing your experiences, you’ll help improve services for future students and inform key platforms like league tables, Prospects, and The Complete University Guide. We also want to hear about your career path and experiences after leaving higher education.

Look out for this logo in Autumn 2026 and let us know how you’re getting on with your next steps!

🌻 Student Wellbeing Update

The final edition of your Student Wellbeing Update (accessible version) for this academic year explores how to use the summer months to build on or maintain your wellbeing. It also includes tips on staying safe while having fun and offers suggested reading with BeWell@NCL.

🏆 'Student Life' Win at the WUSCAs 2025

Newcastle University has proudly taken home the 'Student Life' Award at the 2025 Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs) – and it’s all thanks to you, our incredible students, for sharing your experiences.

A huge thank you to every single student who took the time to leave a review. Your voice matters - this win is yours as much as it is ours!

💬 You may be interested in...

Moving Out Guide

It’s that time of year! Check out the useful Moving Out Guide from your Students’ Union with no-nonsense tips on moving out, getting your deposit back and getting rid of stuff you don't want, including Newcastle City Council’s free-to-use skips. 

🔗 Quick links

• Whether you're looking for a mindful break, a connection with nature, or simply a moment to pause, the free National Trust Blossom events on campus are a perfect way to support your wellbeing this spring.
  
  
• Town and Gown on the Tyne invites students to re-think what they know about where they live in term time. Visit the new exhibition at the Philip Robinson Library from 16 May to 9 November 2025. 
  
  
• Celebrate 25 years of the Centre for Life! Listen to the From Newcastle podcast on the website now or wherever you find your podcasts.