As a 21-year-old Master’s candidate, flying to another country for studies was quite an intimidating idea. However, ever since I applied to the University of Manchester, I have received exceptional support that made sure the university planted a special place in my heart. At a time when college applications were at their peak, the admissions and accommodations team constantly checked if I needed anything and went above and beyond to help in case I did. Upon reaching Manchester, I was assisted by student representatives at the airport, which was a signal to my brain that I was safe and surrounded by ‘my people’. There were a ton of things to do during the first week but the Student Support Hub at AMBS made everything seem easy. Now that I’m in my second semester, I think it’s safe to say that grad school never became a source of stress, but a mitigator of it. The moment you walk into the AMBS building, the beautiful colours shining through natural light already make your day better. For the rest, there is a variety of support available at uni!

The most accessible and prompt team so far is at the Student Support Hub. They are a one-stop service for all general enquiries or any other information and guidance. We also get career guidance, accommodation support, and mental and physical advice. There are more university-wide services that are in place to ensure wellbeing. If it wasn’t for the Student Support Hub, my paranoia would have gotten the best of me. They have helped me through issues with student registration, finances, tech, accommodations, attendance, exams, and more. Fun fact: AMBS students are seen the happiest in the Cosy Campus room, where we relax and spend our breaks. There is also a Comfort Room that is free for anyone to use if they need their own personal space, no questions asked.

Every course has Student Reps, who make support even more accessible. They are peers who make sure every question is answered, and every suggestion is heard. Lucky for me, I’m also friends with my student reps. The Student’s Union is also an option in case any help is needed. Being an MSc Finance student, I aim to attend all classes actively to stay on track with my lectures. Since attendance is regulated and monitored by the Student Engagement and Attendance System (SEAtS) app, it is also easier to manage attendance and get any issues resolved efficiently. Students can’t wait to pull out their phones to scan the attendance QR code and watch their attendance graph update. There are also services available for academic appeals or complaints.

Another crucial step in being an efficient student is networking. AMBS helps with that too! There are 10+ student societies to find friends with similar interests and improving personal skills. During the welcome week, you get to meet so many new people through these societies, and there is something in store for everyone. Moreover, there are career services teams both at the university and AMBS for all sorts of professional support. Finally, there are cafés on campus with amazing coffee and snacks, as if all that comfort and support wasn’t enough!

Written by Ananya Sharma, a current MSc Finance student.

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