My Journey To Manchester
My journey to The University of Manchester was not the conventional one. As a gap year student, I found myself applying to university twice. I can attest that the process is just as gruelling and nerve-wrecking each and every time.
I still remember that shallow breathing and shaky hands as I opened the UCAS email, I was stood in the London Euston train station coming back from visiting my friend at his dream university, wondering if I was about to find mine.
If you are reading this, congratulations, you have already taken that first step towards becoming part of the community at the university. So, as someone who has been exactly where you are, let me take you through my journey of becoming a student here; a step-by-step guide to what worked for me and what you can look forward to.

Discovering My Academic Path
The University of Manchester is a versatile environment which gives you support and freedom for you to shape yourself for who you want to become. My own journey began last year, as a BSc International Management student at the Alliance Manchester Business School.
During the first year, all students undertake a variety of core modules. Meaning, it is the perfect opportunity to explore your strengths and weaknesses as well as discover new interests, gaining a sense of direction before deciding whether you want to specialise within a given field.
By the end of my first year, I realised I had come to recognise how much I enjoyed the marketing and consumer side of my studies. As a result, I have tailored my second-year modules towards those areas, allowing me to align my degree to my passions and career goals.
Life At The University of Manchester
Personally, I find there is something very special about walking down Oxford Road encountering thousands of students all from different backgrounds, each seeking their own path.
The possibilities at this university and within this city are endless. For example, my course entails an exchange year with one of the top global partner institutions the following academic year. You may also choose to modify your course to enrich your experience with an international exchange. Alternatively, you could take advantage of worldwide opportunities through a summer study, or the global alumni graduate programme. Otherwise, you may decide to do a placement year, working alongside industry professionals or join the Masoon Entrepreneurial Centre and launch your own ideas and enterprise.
Whatever path you choose, the university and your fellow students will be here to support and cheer you on every step of the way.

Advice For Future Students
Being at Manchester has provided me with countless opportunities and resources to grow personally and professionally.
Contrastingly, I have progressed from uncomfortably engaging at module seminars to confidently presenting as the Vice President of the Global Exchange and Management Society, representing students on the AMBS committee, and mentoring first year students as a peer mentor. I have evolved from knowing two students from my hometown to over 700 connections on LinkedIn and an incredible circle of friends from all over the world. Two years ago, I would have considered myself a shy, introvert. Now, I look forward to Wednesday night’s socials and hangouts at the Student Union after lectures.
This place is what you make it out to me, so make the most of it; get involved, say yes to opportunities and step outside your comfort zone, and you too can surprise yourself with what you are capable of.

Written by Nikola Chrostowska, a current BSc International Management student.

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