Lancaster University Speciality : Chemistry
programme: Natural Sciences

The underdog. Lancaster University, while not being a Russell Group institution, holds high in university rankings. The 2021 Complete University Guide placed Lancaster University 8th overall, and 3rd for graduate prospects. I believe this is due to the forward-thinking nature of the university, from the constant redevelopment of buildings to exceptional graduate prospects. Furthermore, I have found that its award-winning, yet affordable campus accommodation is better than any I saw on other open days when visiting universities across the UK.

One thing that I believe Lancaster thrives off is its college system. With 9 colleges, smaller communities are formed within the university as a whole and friendly rivalry between colleges results in incredible inter-college sporting events. Additionally, if you were to ask students what their highlight of the academic year was, most students would definitely say Roses. The annual competition with the University of York is an exceptional weekend filled with fun, sport and (somewhat) friendly rivalry.

Overall, I strongly believe Lancaster University, the small university tucked away in the North-West is one to watch in the coming years.

I’m just about to leave Lancaster and will look back on my time here as some of the best years of my life. I was taught really well by lecturers who really cared, helping my love for my course (Natural Sciences) to grow. They’re always available by email, or you can pop into their office each week to ask questions about course content or courseworks.

As a top 10 university, it is of course challenging and many of the students are of a high calibre, however as a newer university it doesn’t have that sense of superiority you’d find at some of the red-brick unis. It’s also not complacent and always investing in new buildings and facilities – one of the many reasons it’s going up the tables each year!

The college system is a great way to have a sense of belonging from day one. You live with your college in the first year (and beyond, if you wish) and often people make friends for life in their first week! I was Pendle and loved it, but genuinely feel that you’d get a great college experience no matter which you choose.

The city is fairly small, so if you want a London-experience maybe Lancaster isn’t ideal for you. However, it has great nightlife, loads of really nice independent bars and restaurants, weekly markets and plenty of shops. I’ve not found myself missing anything from living in a small city. Only thing is, it rains a fair amount!

If you have any questions, I’m available on Lancaster’s unibuddy (click “ask a student” on their website) so feel free to ask anything!