Mmmmm, posh to me isn't the same intelligent, in fact IMHO quite the opposite! So no, don't expect to sound like an intellect, just because someone has a North East accent doesn't make them thick, nor are they viewed as such (well maybe by certain southerners ????)
Middlesbrough around the Uni is to be honest grot, however what it lacks in beauty is more than made up for in friendliness and professionalism of the people that live and work there.
Out of the 3 Uni's I applied for and visited this was by far the most organised and had easily the best atmosphere and friendliness of the locals.
My first choice the moment I visited and has remained so since.
I had an interview at Teesside yesterday, was shown around all the facilities, had a talk by the head of the department and talks by the course tutors, took part in some crime scene science techniques (fingerprinting) followed by a half hour interview. Once again I was very impressed, I have offers from 2 other Uni's that were based on my application only.
The interview itself was an informal chat with a lecturer who asked about my PS, interests, hobbies etc and then said he was delighted to offer me a place and the formal UCAS offer would follow shortly.
All round a good day out and worth the journey, but then that was only 1.5 hours drive each way with me being a northerner!