Accessibility
By Sarah Jean Geraghty
Choosing your future path is one of the most important and hardest decisions you have to make. I chose to come to the University of Ulster to study, it was a big step, but I am glad I came, as this was the best decision I ever made.
University allows you to become a different person, having responsibility, independance and complete new surroundings full of opportunities and experiences. Having a sense of space allows you to explore more and develop a new lifestyle.
I came to the University of Ulster for a number of reasons, mainly because it offered me the opportunity to study a course that I really wanted to do. On first impressions the building itself was not much to look at, but opinions changed as open day proceeded and the university seemed like a great place to gain more qualifications. I got the impression that the university wants everyone to get a good education, but enjoy the experiences also.
I am almost half way through my placement year (third year), working within the department of public affairs. It requires a lot of hard work, but the experience is great.
Having the balance right is important, as you can't party the entire time - putting in the hard work and passing exams to proceed into the next year of study is required but there is no reason why you can't enjoy yourself in between. - 'You can still have fun, while gaining an education'.
Understandably some don't adapt to new surrounding as quick as others and they may feel uncomfortable - but never give up. There are people at the university who can offer confidential help with any problems you may have - even outside the university.
Student Lifestyles is completely different from being at school - ok you still have to work hard and complete exams but it's our chance to prove that we are adults, because this is how you are treated by lecturers and the community which surrounds us on entering university.
Coming to university offers you the chance to move out from your home, providing you with freedom, (dreamt of when you were at school). It has many advantages - parties, loud music, late nights, but in reality we are affecting the lives of our neighbours and those around us. (don't get me wrong though, you can still have a good time).
Residents have the right to complain about students to the University itself or to the city councils. The University has a community relations officer, who calls out to the house in question and gives information and advice on the consequences of bad behaviour. if it persists, it can result on the student being suspended or dismissed. This University takes student discipline very seriously. It is vital to be understanding of the new community you are entering, and even participate in any events that are taking place, as this will improve relations making life better for all involved
Also it means being responsible for your own money so that your essentials are covered for - food, drink and new clothes, it might also be a good thing to consider keeping money for travel expenses and rent.
An important note I must stress clearly is that its all right socialising as long as you do it safely (I would suggest staying in large groups when you go out and NEVER walking home alone). You see, students might be seen as easy targets when it comes down to the five-lettered word - CRIME. There is probably no need to say that each campus offers its unique places to socialise, but it may be good to log on below and find out more about the area you are moving to:
Achieving a degree is our goal to attending university in the first place, but is often put to the back of minds amongst all the excitement surrounding student life.
The reality is that it takes hard work (just like it took hard work to get in - you must keep the work up to stay in). The University of Ulster's Learning Resource Centres are excellent and provide you with all the information you need in your times as a student.
It is difficult to study when there is so much happening around you ( speaking from experience) as everyone has different methods of how they study, but it is always good to follow your own. For me, I have to be away from others in a quiet place, which is why the library within the university is an excellent place, also having all the essential books and resources required is brilliant.
Over the years I have learnt that you should start as you mean to go on, meaning - if you aim to work hard at the beginning it won't be as difficult when it comes to final year, when it counts mostly. I have realised that putting off studying will not be good enough for me to reach the full potential of achieving my degree.
During your time at university you learn and gain new qualities without even knowing. Going to University allows you the opportunity to become an adult and leap out of your childish ways of life. You wouldn't believe how quickly you grow up when your out on your own (having no-one to do anything for you - cooking, cleaning and looking after your money problems, I suppose helps quicken the process).
This is a great feeling, although you have a lot more responsibility your confidence develops and you are treated differently (It's like being in a different world) especially when it comes to University. Lecturers treat you in a great manner, and get you ready for the environment you wish to work in. This also goes for those whose neighbour you are - but as the saying goes 'if you act like a child you will be treated like a child' I suggest you leave that all behind you though if you want people to respect you.
The best part of university life is the fresh start. Making new friends, seeing new faces and doing new things is what it's all about - developing a whole new you, inside and out.