University of York
speciality: English Language & Literature

Coming to the University of York, I didn’t exactly know what to expect. It was my first choice university, however I hadn’t put much thought into the actual city: I was simply really excited for my course (English and Related Literature).

Firstly, York is an ‘on-campus’ uni, something which put lots of my home friends off from applying. I was initially concerned about this, but I have found it immensely preferable. I was placed in the furthest accommodation from town, but looking back, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. It is collegiate, something which is emphasised from the very first day- students are actively assigned to be ‘mentors’ of flats and it doesn’t feel forced or awkward at all as they were in the same shoes 12 months ago. I ended up doing the same and had a blast. I joined the college netball team, a sport I’ve always loved doing, and am now on the committee. There is hockey, volleyball, football and more at college level – something below university level, which is open to all skill levels (netball has 4 teams, and lots of girls had never played before uni). I met my bestest friends in my flat and in netball. Plus, although I was in the furthest college from town, there was always something to do. It really its own little town in itself, and actual town is very walkable and there is a constant bus going back and forth (even after a night out).

Secondly, I think York is a really balanced life. Although I do enjoy going out, I don’t like drinking as much as most of my home friends, and I was anxious that this would disadvantage me socially at university. But, there is SUCH a wide range of activities, people, events and so much more. York just feels more relaxed: there are definitely people who go out 24/7 and have a great time, but there are also people who never do and still have an amazing experience. There’s also the in-between, like me, and I couldn’t be more pleased.

Thirdly, I know the teaching for my course (English) is exceptional, as I have experienced it myself. We constantly have events we can go to, speakers, and our tutors themselves are ridiculously impressive. There is however a slight lack of structure- it’s very ‘you’re on your own,’ especially at first. I remember being told that I ‘just have to get it wrong’ to learn in first year- and after structured A-Level revision, that freaked me out. I also know my friends on other courses, particularly Economics and Accounting and Finance, have had issues with exam times and unclear teaching. However, the University tend to respond adequately. I would say overall the teaching is you receive what you give. You do have to work to interact with the tutors and understand what really to do, but they are super helpful. I have found the workload to be adequate, and it is easy to apply for an extension should you need. This however differs from course to course. I know Psychology in particular sounds very stressful, with lots of work, long lectures, and intense memorisation required.

One thing I did not expect may not be as important to some people, but as a romantic English student, the architecture is really disappointing. It is ‘brutalist…’ I do not know who’s idea that was, either. The actual city of York is stunning – although frustratingly busy during holiday seasons – and the campus simply doesn’t match up. Whilst East is more modern than West, neither of them have much of the ‘York’ charm I was hoping for. Heslington Hall is basically it. There is loads of wildlife though, something I adore. The baby bunnies always warrant a smile, and a gaggle of students stood around with their phones out, pointing.

If you’re coming to York, all I can say is the typical ‘get involved,’ but I can’t emphasise how important it is. Go to that thing which might seem ‘cringy’ – you might meet a lifelong friend. Everyone’s in the same new, awkward, unfamiliar boat and they just want to socialise too. Plus, you can join things year-round – there are so many societies people are constantly floating in and out of, and their range is super wide. Think DogSoc (with dogs who visit every week), Gaming, Politics (controversial, I know), endless Sports, Cocktail society, religious societies, fashion events, and so much more.

Throw yourself in. Say hi to somebody. Compliment that person you think has a cool outfit. It will go quicker than you know it, and you’ll end up loving it more than you might think.

In terms of the actual teaching, the English department is fantastic. Full of passionate, caring lecturers who truly value student interest and input. The library also makes the majority of resources accessible with no extra cost. Though the feedback received for essays can sometimes be confusing or minimal, the opportunity to book office hours means any confusions can often be mediated and a more detailed level of feedback can be provided. However, living on campus means that situations involving student welfare can sometimes be minimised or reduced by college wellbeing officers, and the protocol for threat to female safety on campus definitely needs improving.

York is a lovely place – historic and beautiful.

The University education you receive is fantastic – great quality lecturers and facilities.

Made friends for life and ended up staying on in York for years afterwards

York is a great university with a very strong English course. Professors are helpful and clearly passionate about teaching, they’re always willing to give support both in seminars and workshops , as well as out of class hours. Campus is very lively , with over 200 societies so whatever you’re interested in , there’s a society for you out there. Walking through campus is so relaxing as there’s lots of greenery and animals – seeing a bunny or watching geese walk past you on the way to your lecture is always fun. The English Course is really enjoyable as you don’t only read modern books but also you read classical roman and greek literature and old norse literature. There is also a variety of forms to read , whether that’s plays, poems or a film! One of the aspects of the course that I really enjoy is the fact that you chose what you write about for your essays. At first , this was quite challenging as it’s so different from A-level , but it means that you can write about what you’re passionate about and can draw on a variety of topics such as religion , politics , different theories or history , to discuss in your essay.

I really love York, I think York as a city is really nice and the people are lovely, the campuses are both really nice, especially the campus east as it has newer buildings, but it’s nice to see the campus west being updated more. I really enjoy my course and my lectures and how I’m able to cater to my interests with the wide variety of optional modules. I’ve made the most amazing friends in my first year and am excited to spend my second year with them!