Why did you apply to Lancaster?

I fell in love with the course on an open day and wanted to go to a campus university. I also wanted to move a decent distance away from home so I could experience a new part of the country!

Tell us about your moving to university experience...

I was so nervous about moving to university, I really wanted to have the best experience but had hardly been on a night out before, so Welcome Week felt very intimidating. But once I moved in, decorated my room so it was all cosy, and went to my first freshers’ event, I felt much more confident about living here and over the last term it’s really started to feel like home.

What was your first impression of Lancaster?

I love living on campus – I can leave 5 minutes before my lectures and get there on time. Plus, there’s basically everything you need on campus (which can be a negative because I end up getting doughnuts from Greggs and chips from Sultan’s far too often!)

Did you have any concerns before coming to Lancaster? And if so, how do you feel now you’re here?  

I was very nervous about making friends but have this lovely group I met during Welcome Week and honestly haven’t been able to get rid of them, living five minutes from almost all of them means I get to see them all the time. If you put yourself out there you will find your people!

How would you explain the colleges to a prospective student?   

Colleges are most important during Welcome Week where they organise loads of events, but you can still go to other colleges' events. Beyond freshers, they’re this nice little community to go back to – but it's up to you how much you want to get involved in your college.

Do you live on campus?

I live in standard accommodation with shared facilities – this is the cheapest accommodation. My room is nice, and I have extra space because there’s no ensuite. It’s definitely worth saving the money and going for a shared bathroom – I’ve yet to have a problem with our shared toilet or shower – I’ve only had to wait a handful of times to use them.

I live in Furness so I’m really close to everything – the location is ideal; I have a five-minute commute to lectures and the library. Sultans and Trev (the Furness College bar) are like two minutes away. I think choosing the location of your accommodation is potentially more important than the type.

Are you a member of any societies?

I’m part of quite a few societies. Hiking because it encourages me to get outdoors, and I’ve loved the trips to the Lake District. LURPS (roleplaying) so I can be a nerd and pretend to do magic! And also, two student media societies, Bailrigg FM (the student radio) and SCAN (the student newspaper), because I’m interested in learning more about journalism and media.

Why did you apply to Lancaster?

I chose to apply to Lancaster after a memorable visit during my interview day. What drew me in was the campus-based setting, and how the University is surrounded with the natural beauty of the Lakes. From the Health Innovation Centre, I could see lush green fields and occasional sheep, creating a unique and inspiring atmosphere. The woodland trail around the campus was an additional charm.

Tell us about your moving to university experience… 

Leading up to my move to university, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness, especially about being so far from home and making new friends. To ease my concerns, I spent a lot of time planning and packing, making sure I had everything I needed for a smooth transition. Despite the initial butterflies, when I finally moved and settled in I made great friends with my flatmates and made so many great memories.

During your time at Lancaster, have you ever lived on campus?

Yes, I lived on campus during my first year, and it was a fantastic experience. Exploring the campus was a delight, my flatmates and I used to go on walks all the time. It was also very safe at any time, day or night. The convenience of being close to the library, classes, and lectures made the overall living experience both practical and enjoyable.

Did you have any concerns before coming to Lancaster? And if so, how do you feel now you’re here? 

Initially, I was worried about settling in and experiencing homesickness at Lancaster. However, making great friends and enjoying my course has turned Lancaster into my new home, alleviating those concerns.

Making friends at Lancaster was surprisingly easy, most people coming to university have the same mindset when it comes to wanting to create lasting friendships and meet new people. Living on campus in a flat added to the ease of making friends, fostering a sense of community that has enriched my university experience. Cooking and sharing meals with my flatmates became a cherished routine, turning them into my family away from home. These shared moments not only brought us together but also added a special touch to the sense of community within our living space.

What advice would you give to someone on making friends at university?  

My advice for making friends at university is to be open-minded and proactive. Attend orientation events, join clubs or societies that align with your interests, and participate in social activities. Don't be afraid to initiate conversations with classmates or neighbours, as many others are also looking to make new connections. Be genuine and approachable, and remember that everyone is in a similar position, eager to make friends. Additionally, be open to stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things – it's a great way to meet diverse people and create lasting friendships.

Are you a member of any societies?  

I'm actively involved in both MedSoc and the Cycling Society. MedSoc appeals to me for its academic offerings; they regularly share events that align with my career aspirations and enhance my learning. It's also a great platform to connect with peers from my course. Joining the Cycling Society stemmed from my love for exploration; they offer fantastic cycling routes around Lancaster and Lancashire, allowing me to discover the surrounding areas. Being part of both societies has not only enriched my academic experience but has also led to the formation of wonderful friendships.

Why did you apply to Lancaster?

I found Lancaster through searching for interdisciplinary degrees to meet my various research interests. I chose Lancaster mainly because of their academic rankings. Lancaster University values sustainability, which is very important to me, so I felt aligned. The university has various societies to be a part of including sports, outdoor activities, sustainability activities, and volunteer roles. The university also offers career development opportunities including skills development, mentoring, coaching and part time paid roles.

How was Welcome Week for you?

Welcome week involved moving into my accommodation, attending orientation events and joining societies. There’s a lovely welcome and lots of support from the college, the departments, the societies, etc. and you will feel very included from the very beginning.

Have you found making new friends easy at Lancaster? 

People are very friendly and approachable so it is easy to make friends at university. There are so many activities and societies to be a part of and you’ll meet new people often. I have met friends from the UK, Europe, Asia, America and the Caribbean. It is a diverse and very inclusive environment.

What advice would you give to someone on making friends at university?  

I met my friends during orientation events, societies, and in my accommodation. Trying new things, being approachable, being open to others, initiating conversations, adding each other on social media, etc. are good tips to make friends at university. It is also very important to be yourself.

Do you feel a sense of community at Lancaster?

In my experience, people at Lancaster are very warm and welcoming, especially as first years when you are all adjusting to the university together. A sense of community can be felt in the dorms on campus and living off campus. The professors, tutors and staff in the departments are also very warm, welcoming and helpful.

How would you explain the colleges to a prospective student?  

The colleges are located in different areas on campus and so when applying to a college for accommodation, it is important to look at the university map to decide where on campus you’d like to live. For e.g. being in the centre of campus is very convenient to get to lectures, the library and stores yet it is in a very busy area. There are college specific sports and colleges also organize different activities for e.g. there was a yoga day organized at Pendle college and free food days.

Settling in and making friends

As an international student originally from Bulgaria, Carla found a community of students at Lancaster going through the same transition of moving to a new country. “Having experienced the University as an international hub, I knew that I’d be surrounded by people from all over the world who can teach me about the world, and students who are just as excited as I am to be living and learning abroad,” she shared.

On making friends, Carla says she has created a network through her course. “By studying together, we’ve had plenty of time connecting and learning about each other’s cultures.” She also enjoys going to the gym, which she feels is a great place to “strike up a conversation with others about our common interests, the courses we take and more.” Similarly, joining student-run societies is “an easy way of participating in activities you personally enjoy and meeting potential friends who you can share that hobby with,” says Carla, highlighting that they’re an especially great tool for international students looking to meet new people.

Campus and the city

Studying at a campus university is convenient, Carla finds, for being close to her friends and classes: “everything is close by, and I don’t have to worry about having to travel far to get to different lectures, especially in the cases of cross-departmental studies.” Between lectures, Carla enjoys spending time amongst the nature on campus. “I do my best to go out and walk alongside the pitches, along the Woodland Walk or be in the plant room in the biology department,” she shared.

Exploring beyond the campus, Carla appreciates the green space within the city of Lancaster. “I am maybe the biggest fan of Williamson Park. I love going there,” she said. “The park has a pretty pond with ducks and a lot of different pathways. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a little walk along some trees and beautiful architecture.”

Looking to the future

Carla shared some valuable advice for future students: “enjoy your time. Take whatever opportunities are given to you. Say ‘yes’ to however many things you can because the random suggestions are what will end up becoming your favourite memories.”

After she graduates, Carla would like to work in the technology industry, specialising in marketing strategy and business development, and she says that support from the University has helped her feel well-prepared: “through the Learning Support and Careers Services (in the Management School), I have had the chance to excel and become a better student and a better future employee.” She has also made use of the services offered by the University’s Careers Team for support with refining her CV and practicing academic writing. “I have found both services extremely useful and would recommend that anyone in need reaches out to see what they offer,” she advises.

How would you describe the community at Lancaster?

It’s fun because there’s always something going on, from the weekly market in Alexandra Square, to college and society events. Lancaster also feels very safe and welcoming as it’s not a big city, and everyone here is very friendly. 

Quite a few of my friends are international students, and it’s really cool to hear the differences between the UK and the countries and cultures they're from.

How was your experience of Welcome Week?

Welcome Week was great. It allowed me to get comfortable living in Lancaster, join in with events, make friends, and join a few societies before having to start thinking about grades and uni work, which made the whole process much less stressful.  

I was very fortunate to avoid feeling homesick completely. I think I managed to do that by keeping busy. I didn’t spend much time in my room, instead I was always either hanging out in the flat kitchen/living room, going out with friends or going to society events.  

In your experience, is Lancaster an affordable student city? Have you received any extra financial support?

I think Lancaster is an affordable student city compared to a lot of others. Transport is quite affordable if you make use of the student bus passes, which are very good value for money.

I received £1,000 per year of study as part of the Lancaster Success Programme. This has been great as it has reduced my worries about money whilst at university.

Are you a member of any societies?

I’m Polish but moved to the UK before I came to university, so one of the best things here at Lancaster is the fact that we have a Polish Society. It allowed me to make new friends from my country and made me feel much more welcome.  

I think societies are an integral part of the university experience. They provide a unique chance to meet up with other people who share a common interest and to take part in sports or hobbies you might never have otherwise tried. 

What do you like best about our university campus?

The nicest thing about the campus is how much nature there is. There are plenty of green spaces on campus, like the woodland walk, the fields near the sports centre, and the BBQ areas. It makes the campus feel like a student village that’s more than just a place to learn.

What surprised me the most about the campus was the number of places to eat and drink. My friends and I often go to Pizzetta Republic. It has a nice vibe and is quite cosy. Alexandra Square is great in the summer – it’s pleasant to get some sun and fresh air in between studying.  

Have you accessed careers support through the University?

Yes, the campus careers support is amazing. There are plenty of online resources on writing CVs, cover letters and getting good at interview and assessment centres. I found the CV and cover letter drop-in sessions particularly helpful. The staff were very friendly, and the feedback has been very useful.

What’s more, careers fairs have informed me of what I can do with my degree and reassured me that I’m not just stuck on one path after I graduate. I found myself applying to things I would have never even thought about before attending a careers fair and speaking with a representative.