Starting Fresh: My UoM Journey So Far

I still remember finding out I’d got into the University of Manchester on results day. I was too focused on opening my grades and forgot that I had even applied to university! When I saw the email from The University of Manchester, saying that I had been accepted, I was shocked more than anything, but I soon felt relieved and excited to move to a new city in just a month’s time.

For A Levels, I studied Biology, Chemistry and Geography at King Edward VI College in Stourbridge. Geography had always been the subject that stood out to me because I loved learning about how the physical world works and how people interact with it. A family friend
mentioned Manchester, and after visiting on an open day, I instantly knew it was where I wanted to be. I loved the campus, the people and the energy that I felt from the city on that one day in March.

Preparing for the Move

Once I had received my offer from the University of Manchester, the reality of moving two hours away from home started to hit me. Finding accommodation was probably the most stressful part because I wanted somewhere that fit my needs and would make it just that bit easier to settle in. Saying goodbye to my family was quite hard too, but looking back, it taught me the importance of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable.

Before arriving, I spent time looking into what life at Manchester was like and came across MUGS, the Manchester University Geographical Society. Joining it was one of the best decisions I made and I loved it so much that I became social secretary for the society in my second year, and then vice president in my third year.

First Impressions

Moving day came around very quickly, and my family helped me move all of my stuff in to Oak House. I was nervous about living with strangers and being away from home, but once I arrived, I decided to make the most of it. I went to as many Freshers events as I could, explored the city and met loads of new people.

I quickly realised why Manchester is such a special place to be, and not just for university. The city has such a welcoming feel, and there’s always something going on.

Looking Back as a Third Year

Now, as a third year, it’s strange looking back on how nervous I was at first. I’ve grown so much since then, both in confidence and independence. Manchester really does feel like home now. The sense of community on campus and the energy of the city make it such a great place to live and study.

If I had to give one piece of advice to anyone thinking about studying at the University of Manchester, or if you have an offer, it would be to put yourself out there. Moving somewhere new and meeting new people can be really scary at times, but it’s worth it. Say yes to opportunities, get involved and trust that it will all pay off in the end.

Written by Jake, a third year BSc Geography student

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