Student Life Blog
There is so much more to university than just the academic reason as to why you apply. Part of the university package also revolves around experiences such as social opportunities, learning how to live independently and often earning money through a part time job. University is essentially a stepping stone into adult life and embracing student life is so important for getting the most you can out of your degree.
Where do you live while you are at university?
Accommodation is a common concern for those thinking of university. A lot of first year students live in university-owned halls on campus or in a nearby student village. This provides super close access to university and helps to build a close-knit first year community. Prices can vary based on location, room type and room size. You can often save a lot of money if you don’t mind sharing a bathroom but for some people, privacy and exclusive access is a priority. In second year, most students move into a house with a group of friends they made during first year. Look for houses with all bills included in the cost of rent as this makes budgeting much easier!
How do I find out what is on offer locally?
Some courses have more contact time than others, but one thing is for sure, there is more time during the week to do things you enjoy compared to school or college. Often there are local student deals which allow you to access cinemas, gyms, theatres and so on for great prices. For me, I enjoy making the most of the free swimming sessions which the Life Centre in Plymouth offers to students. Joining a club or society is undoubtedly the best way to integrate into your university community as these run many weekly sessions and socials. In your second or third year of university, you may decide to take on a leadership role for a society through becoming a member of committee. This can be great fun and also looks fantastic on your CV as it develops so many important skills for the workplace such as teamwork and organisation.
How can I fund my studies?
Student life can be expensive, especially if you are keen on nights out, so the best way to fund these habits is through working a part time job. Either a zero-hour contract job or one with a low number of contracted hours is best for students and it may be that you can transfer to a store back home in the holidays. There is a balance to be had between earning money and focussing on your studies and enjoying social opportunities. Someone once told me, you’ve got the rest of your life to work which has since stuck with me. Now in second year, I choose which opportunities I take on more carefully so I don’t tire myself or get behind on my course.
Student life really is what you make it. I am involved with three student societies and love my part time job as a student ambassador for the University of Plymouth. I spend time exploring locally and further afield, with frequently trips to Exeter and Dartmoor with my friends. Coming to university through clearing meant I arrived a bit unsure whether I was making the right decision but if I could give my 17-18 year old self a piece of advice, it would be to trust the process, in the knowledge that you will always end up in the right place with the best people!
