Whether you’re already familiar with the city of Manchester or completely unknown to the hustle and bustle of the city, your first semester at UOM will be full of exciting adventures! Moving to a new place may be a daunting thought for many students. However, after your first few weeks here at UOM, you will begin to lose those feelings of uncertainty as you familiarise yourself with the city and student life.

Exploring the city:

Your first semester at UOM is not only about adjusting to the academic side of university, but it is equally important to take the time to explore the city. Exploring the city with new friends is also a great way to get to know people, but venturing out alone can be an exciting experience as the city of Manchester has so much to offer. You may spend your first semester café hopping to find the best study spots – as a second-year student, I still seem to find a new coffee shop every week! Manchester is also home to the Arndale shopping centre and many unique shops and boutiques in the centre of town, which is a great place to spend time exploring, especially on rainy days when you need some retail therapy. On sunnier days, you may want to venture out into the greener side of the city. There are many parks and gardens to check out, including Fletcher Moss in Didsbury, which is a stunning spot for a walk but is also surrounded by pubs and cafés- perfect for a post walk treat. For those who enjoy a night out, Manchester offers a wide variety of options including several bars, clubs and events which add to the city’s lively, creative and vibrant character. With this only being a small insight to what the city has to offer, expect your first semester to be full of exciting adventures.

Student life:

You may find that it takes a bit of time adjusting to a new routine in your first semester but there’s no need to panic! Your first semester is about getting used to the structure of lectures and what is expected of you at UOM, whilst maintaining a work life balance. The SEED department offers lots of support to help you through your first semester as well as the rest of your time here at UOM. The SEED support hub on campus is a great place to bring any questions or queries you may have in your first semester and there are always other options such as Academic Advisors and Peer Mentors who are also there to support you. Finding a study space that works for you is also a good thing to find in your first semester. For me, I find myself studying in the SEED library in Humanities Bridgeford Street, where there are many tables and private booths which provide a relaxed but focused setting. However, the university offers a wide range of study spaces so you should explore as many of these as you can in your first semester. It is also a given that you will get lost in the Main Library so give yourself some time to wonder the many floors and corridors of this building!

UOM also has over four hundred societies, providing endless opportunities in your first semester to try out new hobbies and meet loads of amazing new people. Your first semester at UOM will be nothing short of excitement and will hopefully allow you to create many unforgettable memories as you begin your journey here at the university.

Written by Kara, a current BSc Geography with International Study Student

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