Leeds is a great city in which to be a student. There is plenty to do: nightclubs, shopping, culture, nature, major cities nearby. Transport links are also good – the station is centrally located (nationally) and long distance buses run regularly from the bus station.

At the University of Leeds, the facilities are brilliant. There are three libraries (one which is newly built), a wide variety of eateries, a modern gym and more. The location of the university, halfway between the city centre and the student area, is handy. However, what let Leeds down for me was the accommodation. The main student housing area of Hyde Park is quite unsafe at times and many of the houses are run down and owned by landlords who don’t have much care for the students living in them. If I moved back I would be inclined to stay in a flat/high-rise situation, move into the city centre or move further out to the nicer houses in Headingley.

In terms of degree content, the value for money is at times concerning. My course had very few contact hours and some of the lecture/seminar content was sub par and, sometimes, students had to be overly responsible for their own learning. However, the majority of the teaching staff are very friendly, passionate and eager to help. The Social Sciences building is always clean, organised and well-equipped with a student work area, student kitchen and computer lab.

Overall, Leeds is perfect for someone wanting a typical student experience in a major city that is has great nightlife and shopping. Culturally speaking, perhaps there isn’t as much to do in Leeds as in Manchester or Sheffield but with the amount of societies and activities in the union you are sure to find hobbies to fill your time with.