Bristol is a lively, accommodating and accessible city
Bristol has two universities to choose from: the University of Bristol (UoB) and University of West England (UWE). Both universities offer a variety of courses, and are renowned for at least a few- UoB is known for research, specifically in science, social science and law, and UWE is known for it’s practical and industry-focused approach to teaching. Either way, your education is in great hands.
The great thing about studying in Bristol is you have a choice of how to spend your university years. UWE has multiple campuses, some in the concrete jungle we call Bristol and one on the outskirts if you are looking for a quieter, more peaceful experience. UoB is located in the city, but it offers quiet accommodation, depending on where you apply.
But by far the best thing about Bristol is how accommodating it is. If you are looking for a party scene, Bristol is known for that, you don’t have to look far! If you are looking for quiet evenings, Bristol is good at that, too. There are a lot of events hosted by locals to participate in, all listed primarily on Eventbrite and a variety of other websites, ranging from a tour of the Cathedral to free makeup courses to Lego building. Bristol is big enough to have various shopping malls, trampolining areas, parks and even an ice-skating rink in the winter, and big enough to be meeting new people at all times if you so wish, but not big enough to ever truly feel lost like London. The city is alive, and you feel that when you walk around the streets meeting friendly strangers. The city is divided into multiple areas, ranging from posh Clifton to international Redland to historic Redcliffe, but united in its warm population. In fact, people like it here so much, that it isn’t uncommon for people to stay in Bristol after they graduate. There truly is something for everyone!
If you value travel, Bristol is very accessible. It has a train station going from London all the way to Edinburgh, and even its own airport flying internationally. The bus station can also take you to a variety of destinations via buses for cheaper transportation options. If you have a friend who drives or you drive yourself, you can get to the coast in a matter of an hour from the city centre of Bristol. The city of Bath, located a brief 20 minute train ride away from Bristols train station, offers exploration and a variety of other activities to do.
As a fellow international student, it’s easy to find people from home. The best way to start is by joining the society of your university specific to your home country or continent. There are also online forums of people looking for others in Bristol from the same country, sometimes as specific as city!
None of that would be valuable if the city of Bristol weren’t safe. The only theft I’ve heard of is a bike stolen when it wasn’t locked to anything. As a woman, I am comfortable asking a stranger for directions and using public transport. If you ever do feel unsafe, there is a service offered by the universities- a phone number you call, and local police will arrive and escort you to your destination safely. I don’t know of anyone who needed to use that service, man, woman or otherwise. Obviously, don’t be senseless about your belongings or your information, don’t ask for trouble. But if you have even a smidge of logic and self-preservation skills, you will be more than okay.
In conclusion, Bristol is a lively, accommodating and accessible city which would be more than happy to have you for your university (and potentially beyond) years!
- Sophia