Blogs

I started my university journey in 2011 at the University of Mostaganem in Algeria studying English language, literature and civilisation then moving on to an MA in applied linguistics at the same university, where I graduated in 2016.

After getting my MA, I was lucky enough to receive a scholarship to further my postgraduate studies in the UK. For someone who never had an exchange programme abroad, or study-related trips, it was an exciting opportunity.

As we set foot into our home for the next four months at an American university, we were met with the depressing sight of sickly-green linoleum floor and cage-like bed frames. We had been placed opposite our resident advisor’s room to ensure no after-hours shenanigans. 

I’m Anna, a geography student from Wales. I was the first to encounter the room. I opened the door to find two empty beds and clinical, plastic-covered mattresses. I was left wondering what I had got myself into. This wasn’t what dorms looked like in the movies. Was I in the right place?

For every international student on an F-1 visa, Optional Practical Training (OPT) is the vehicle one uses to work legally in the US. It has just one downside: by the time you get your permit, it may too late for you to do your internship or work experience. 

For most people university is a time of learning, not just about your chosen course but about yourself. It gives you freedom and independence and a chance to start building the future you’ve always dreamed about. Joining a society or a sports team is one of the best ways to make the most of your time at university, and here’s why.

1. You can make friends and meet new people

I want to start with one of the most obvious reasons as to why sports and societies are so great – the social aspect.

Throughout 2019 many student blogs and advice pieces have been published to assist students at any stage in the university journey.

These include articles on putting together applications, blogs from international students from all over the world, and of course a huge number of rankings aimed at helping students choose the best university for them.

 Below are the most popular articles published in 2019, but be sure to check out the many other articles that were published during the year. 

Graduation day is a day of celebration and reflection on your time at university. But what happens after the degree has been conferred, the mortarboards have been thrown and you've packed up and left the place you called home? Most students don’t realise the impact this will have on them. I certainly didn’t.

Marta Ortega Vega, psychology, King’s College London

Weronika Denes, psychology, University of Lincoln

In Poland on 6 December, we celebrate Santa Claus Day and exchange small gifts with our loved ones. Although this tradition is not common in the UK, my friends and I at university met up around this day to give each other “Secret Santa” presents and to spend some time together.

University can feel quite daunting for many people. It usually involves moving away from your family, friends and hometown and for some, it is their first taste of independence, which is scary and can induce many feelings of anxiety and fear.

There’s just something so magical about this time of year with the fairy lights, Christmas trees and smell of mince pies and mulled wine in the air. It makes for the prime Instagram image and universities are certainly getting in the spirit and sharing all the festive fun on their Instagram accounts. 

So take a scroll through some examples of how some universities are joining in the festive fun. And why not share some of your festive snaps on Instagram, tagging @timeshigheredstudent and I’ll share some of the best.