Noé Peckham

Hi! My name is Noé and I’ve recently returned from my placement year to study my final year in Chemical and Nuclear Engineering.

I am half French, half British, but I grew up in the UK near Manchester. Since I live here, I had the chance to visit different universities around the UK before deciding that Leeds was the best university for me. I remember my first time visiting Leeds on an offer holder's day; I loved the aesthetic with such a range of building styles, making it a really unique campus. The city itself also has a lot to offer. I've managed to embrace the diversity of the city, having tried cuisines from many different countries and regions. I also love to get involved with multicultural events, which really broaden my horizons. Some of my favourite things to see are the Royal Armouries museum and the Leeds Art Gallery, both of which are free to enter (which is a great bonus as a student!).

Something I love about the University of Leeds is that it has a great careers service (that’s how I landed a placement year, and a summer internship!). For my faculty - Engineering and Physical Sciences - we have a dedicated employability team, who arranged regular information sessions regarding student career opportunities. I also made the most of one-to-one job application sessions and practice interviews.

I also love that are more than 300 societies in the student-run Leeds University Union, so you're bound to find something new, or something you love. Furthermore, I really enjoy my course here. Chemical and Nuclear Engineering is a course accredited by the UK's Institution of Chemical Engineers, giving me a head start for my professional career. Plus, all the professors are really friendly and helpful. I can just knock on their office door and they'd be happy to help me! Leeds provides all students with an academic personal tutor - this is a member of your school who will stay your personal tutor throughout your time at Leeds, to help guide you through managing your time at university. I found this really helpful throughout my degree. In first year, I was also assigned a peer mentor; a senior student who offered additional support to help me integrate to the university.

Academics aside, I love to go on walks in the greenery, because despite being a big city Leeds still offers great natural areas. Also, Leeds has great transport links, allowing me to easily spend a day out where I can explore the nearby Yorkshire moors and nature. I've enjoyed going to the Peak District, Ilkley Moor, the Yorkshire Dales, Whitby, York, Durham, London... the list goes on and on!

My first year here was spent in university accommodation, Devonshire Hall. I liked that it was close to the campus, but also nearby to one of my favourite areas in Leeds - Woodhouse Ridge. This forested area has lots of footpaths and trails - and, if you can find it, one point nearby has a great view of the city! From my second year and onwards, I've lived in house shares with my friends - mostly in the Hyde Park area.

Please get in touch with me if you have any questions about the University of Leeds, the city, UK life, or anything else! Since I've been here for 4 years, I'm sure I have the experience to be able to help you with whatever you need.