Adjustable. Exciting. Endless opportunities.
Hull offers top quality teaching for my desired course with various opportunities. Within the university there's also an abundant of choices for societies, sport teams and volunteering. It is also really affordable - both tuition fees and living costs - compared to other institutions I've looked at in other cities. It's also not too far to lots of major cities and towns when it comes to travelling. I'd say all of these factors are a win!
Why did you choose to study your chosen subject, and why at Hull?
My studies in Hull started with a Bachelors in Creative Writing and Film Studies and proceeded to a Masters in English focusing on Creative Writing. When finalising my decision on which institution to study at, I compared the outline of the course and realised Hull focuses on engagement between tutors and students. I believe this interaction is really important and a prime way of learning. The support I've received from my tutors are beyond excellent and I could not imagine building the relationships I have somewhere else.
Which accommodation do you live in? What are the best things about where you live?
I live at Ashcourt, a private off-campus accommodation. The location of Ashcourt is very convenient because it's in the middle of everywhere I need to go to regularly. The university is a 10 minutes walk straight down the same road. Lidl is also down the road on the other end about 7 minutes away. And right opposite is Newland Avenue - lots of shops and cafes to visit and hangout with friends. Ashcourt also offers security, parking, maintenance and all utility bills and Wi-Fi are included in the rent.
How have you changed as a person since coming to study in Hull?
I've become more independent and learned how to be more initiative. Through numerous networking opportunities I got to do through the university, it has helped me to develop skills that will be important to have in both life and the working field. Studying in Hull has really prepared me for what's to come next and I'm ready to see where these skills can take me.
What do you do in your spare time when you’re not studying? Are you part of any societies and would you recommend joining them?
Many people know how much I love to keep myself busy outside of my academics. In the Creative Writing department, we have a student organisation called HU Writes and I help to run the Magazine Team. HU Writes is a creative outlet for us to display our work. Apart from the Magazine, we also have a Showcase, Podcast and a Website. Dancing for nearly 20 years now, I've joined the Hull University Dance Squad (HUDS) and they're open to all levels (from Open to Advanced). They are the nicest and most supportive group of people I've met and I would highly recommend giving HUDS a try, regardless you have a background in dance or not.
I also work part-time on campus at SPAR, a convenience store at the HUSU building. The flexibility of the shifts caters well with my busy schedule. They're also understandable that academics is students' priority. Finally, I always love going to the theatre when the opportunity rises. Hull has three fantastic theatres and tickets are at affordable prices compared to bigger cities. With theatre being the heart of England I would definitely recommend giving it a try, especially if you've never experience it before!
How do you feel about the city of Hull?
As I've said to many people, Hull is a nice balance between a city and countryside, making it a suitable place for students to study at. There's always something lively happening in the city of Hull, but it's also calm enough for a nice or chill wind down and never overwhelming. The balance of social life and lack of distraction could not be more perfect.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of studying at Hull/studying your subject at Hull?
Always plan ahead and be three steps ahead. Stick to it while you can but if you don't, make sure you have a backup plan. Get a planner or record your schedule on your digital calendar. Planning is a huge help when it comes to time management, a factor that many students forget how important it is.
Can you summarise your experience of Hull in a few words?
Adjustable. Exciting. Endless opportunities :)
- Kelly