Joining the 2024 university of the year…your life is about to change. Yep, you heard that right. For the better though, don’t worry! Up until now, life for the past 10-14 years has likely consisted of Monday to Friday 8am-4pm with homework on top of that, as well as drowning in exam stress with coursework also piled on. Well, all that is about to change. Don’t get me wrong, there will still be exams, scheduled classes, and additional work (all depending on your subject choice, of course,) but this time, you have Ulster University on your side. Dive into this article to find out exactly how Ulster University makes these changes worthwhile and what exactly it is that makes Ulster University so good.
Locking in…
Have you ever been under a time crunch for a deadline and you go home with the mindset of grinding out an assignment only to be met with a house that sounds as though a small village has been set free inside of it? And then, you decide to head to the library, because that will be much quieter, except, its 4pm and the local primary school is holding their after-school club there. Yeah? Me too. That’s why when I joined Ulster university, I felt sweet relief upon seeing their library options.
That deadline creeping up on you, that’s no problem, because Ulster University offers a 24-hour accessible library to all students. This includes spaces such as a computer suite with printing options, photocopying facilities, as well as private study rooms for those of you who prefer an isolated quiet place for studying. The library is split into four main sections: the main reception area with machines to check out reserved books, the reception desk with helpful staff on hand ready to help you with any question you may have, the seating area with desks to study in an area with a bit more background noise and comfier chairs (in my opinion.) Of course, scattered around this area are the private study areas (which can be reserved both online and at the desk.) The computer suite is open 24 hours to students alongside the printer and photocopier previously mentioned. Additionally, the library offers a laptop lending scheme for students who do not own a laptop. They are available to lend 24 hours of the day for 4 hours at a time through your student card.
The other two sections include the actual library part, where all the books are stored, and a silent study area lined with desks and an exterior desk with a view of campus (be careful not to get too distracted people-watching though!)
All play, no work…
At Ulster University there are over 100 societies to get involved in, ranging in sports, hobbies, and faith-based groups. As someone who is a member of the biggest society in UU Coleraine, I would seriously urge you to get stuck into one of these groups. Societies are a great way to meet people outside of your course, as well as those on your course who are a few years above you (and maybe get some practical tips from them!)
Usually, societies cost around £2 per meeting (typically once a week) for costs such as materials, tea/coffee, renting a room etc. This is a small price to pay for a great opportunity. You will get all this information on the UUSU website, along with getting the chance to see many of these societies at the fresher’s fayre at the beginning of your first semester.
Speaking of the fresher’s fayre, this happens during fresher’s week at the beginning of the first semester. Ulster University prides itself on how the new students are welcomed into campus life, and they ensure there is always an event on each day during this week. These events can include a petting zoo, where you’ll get to meet Bruno the alpaca, a bingo night, karaoke, and much more. A lot of these happen down in the students’ union bar where freshers can enjoy a boozy night away from the suitcases they have yet to unpack!
If this isn’t your scene, however, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options for enjoyable nights out. The Christian union, for example, have multiple events on each day and a lot of these carry on throughout the year. These include activities like desert and games nights, the photo challenge, and “I-cafe” where they host international students and provide a meal and a fun evening.
The world is your oyster…
If you are an international student and the mention of “I-cafe” caught your eye, boy do I have news for you! Ulster University is home to over 2000 international students from over 80 different countries. The university provides an excellent support system for those of you who are travelling a long way to reach us. ISAS is a system set in place to provide support and answer any questions you may have. You can contact them on through the Ulster University website. Of course, if you would prefer, you can make your way down to the Global Lounge where you can meet other international students as well as the team in place to help you. Oftentimes, walking to class you will be met with many different events exploring global cultures, including opportunities to visit these countries on a placement year. So, for those of you travelling the world and wishing to see more of it, Ulster University has got you covered.
The “Go Global” scheme allows opportunities to work and study abroad, as
well as the opportunity to dive into the language and become a speaker of the
native language of your chosen country. There are many reasons to consider
Ulster University’s scheme: levelling up your CV, adding value to your degree,
and enhancing your employability, as well as so many more!
See you in September…
Now, hopefully after reading this article your nerves are calmed and are
replaced by an energetic excitement about joining Ulster University. Whether
you are going to Magee, Coleraine, or Belfast, I can guarantee you there will
never be a dull moment, and you will not regret your choice. Before you launch into your new season, check out some exciting tips on joining a university here!
With all that said,
I’ll see you in September ;)
Jess.