Meet Mahmoud

A great place to live and study

I really appreciate the supportive and welcoming research environment at Newcastle University; it has provided me with a positive space to develop as a researcher and pursue my doctoral studies. 

I also enjoy living in Newcastle as a city, it is friendly, affordable, and easy to navigate, which has made my experience as an international PhD student both comfortable and enjoyable. 

I was pleasantly surprised by how friendly and welcoming people are in Newcastle. The Geordie accent was also something new and interesting for me, and I’ve really enjoyed getting used to it. Overall, I’ve found Newcastle to be a lovely city with a warm atmosphere that makes it a great place to live and study. 

Degree content

My degree in Speech and Language Sciences focuses on the scientific study of language, communication, and cognition. It involves developing strong research skills, critical thinking, and experience in designing and conducting studies related to speech, language, and neurological conditions. 

As a research student, I work independently while collaborating with supervisors and other researchers, which has helped me grow academically and professionally. This degree is ideal for students interested in language, cognitive neuroscience, and pursuing research or academic careers. 

Accessing support at Newcastle

I have accessed academic and research support services provided by the University, including training workshops and guidance related to research skills and professional development. I have also attended English language support classes, which have helped me strengthen my academic communication and confidence. These services have been very helpful in supporting my progress and development as a PhD student. 

I enjoy the opportunity to explore topics related to language, cognition, and neuroscience in depth and to contribute to meaningful research. The degree allows me to think critically, work independently, and continuously learn new skills. The interdisciplinary nature of the work and the welcoming academic community make it a very positive place to study and grow as a researcher. 

Advice for future applicants

My top tip for future applicants is to carefully review the programme requirements, prepare a strong and focused application, and reach out to potential supervisors early. Taking time to clearly explain your research interests and motivation can make the application process smoother and more successful. 

Future ambitions

In the future, I see myself working in academia as a researcher. I would like to continue conducting research in language and cognition, particularly in neurological populations and ageing. My goal is to contribute meaningfully to research and to play an active role in advancing knowledge in speech and language sciences.