I’m back from a trip to Sunderland where I met about 120 students yesterday as part of the Inspiration Tour 2008/2009. I was really impressed by the campus, not just because of the quality of the building but also because of the openness of it…

The Informatics Centre has a terraced area (see photo below) where the students can go to use the PCs and all the lecture theatres as well as the staff offices have big glass windows making it feel much more like an office environment rather than a University.

I don’t know if it was a coincidence, but I also noticed that the students there have been more keen than the average to participate and debate during my session, with a lot of very pertinent questions (and some tough ones as well) that sparked a very positive debate.

Hats off to the University, the lecturers and the students, it was really a great experience for me!!

I have to say, it was indeed my very first time in the area and I found the whole surrounding to be really nice too: beautiful views, great buildings, clean air… And the lovely cab driver to told me all about the history and the sights!!!

If it was just a bit warmer I may consider living there :)