My Manchester Campus life
Saying Yes to University Life
When I first joined the University of Manchester, I decided that I did not want to only pass through the university. I wanted the university to pass through me. For me, university life is not only about attending lectures, submitting assignments, and getting good grades. It is also about participating, exploring, meeting people, asking questions, and discovering new sides of yourself.
During my first week, I joined almost every club and society that caught my attention. I was surprised by how many options were available. There were clubs and societies for boxing, motorsport, Formula One, engineering, civil engineering, artificial intelligence, professional development, culture, leadership, and many other interests. At first, the number of choices was overwhelming, but it also made me realise how rich university life can be when you are willing to engage.
Becoming More Than a Student
One of the most meaningful parts of my experience was becoming a student representative. This gave me the opportunity to listen to other students, understand their concerns, and contribute to discussions about improving the student experience. It also helped me build confidence in speaking, representing others, and taking part in decision-making spaces.
I also attended campaigns, student events, networking lunches, and university activities. Through these events, I met people I would never have met in a normal classroom setting. I even had the opportunity to meet local leadership in Manchester, which gave me a wider understanding of how the city connects with students and communities.
At one point, I ran my first campaign for a representative role in the School of Engineering. I did not win, but the experience was unforgettable. It taught me courage, communication, visibility, and resilience. It also made me realise that leadership is not only about winning a position. Sometimes, the real value is in standing up, presenting your ideas, and learning from the process.
Learning in Unexpected Places
University learning also happened outside formal lectures. Through societies and events, I joined conversations about artificial intelligence, engineering, future careers, and global challenges. In one society, we discussed AI and the issues students and professionals should start considering. These discussions helped me see that university is not only about what is written in lecture notes. It is also about being exposed to new ideas and preparing for a changing world.
The UK university environment also taught me something very important: safety and diversity are taken seriously. As an international student, this was reassuring. It gave me confidence that the university was not only interested in academic performance, but also in student wellbeing,
inclusion, and support. Knowing that there are systems looking out for students makes it easier to focus, participate, and succeed.
Career Support and Personal Growth
Another important part of my Manchester experience has been the career service. I explored the support available for CVs, applications, interviews, job searches, and career direction. This helped me think more clearly about my future after graduation and how to connect my academic experience with professional opportunities.
The university environment encouraged me to become more active, more open, and more intentional. I learnt that being a student is not only about receiving knowledge. It is about using every available opportunity to grow academically, socially, professionally, and personally.
The Small Joys of Student Life
Of course, student life also has its lighter side. There are events, gatherings, society activities, and sometimes free food everywhere. I often joked that I probably ate more free food from university events than meals I cooked myself. These small things may sound simple, but they make student life easier, warmer, and more enjoyable.
My Advice to Future Students
My advice to future students is this: do not limit your university experience to the classroom. Join societies. Attend events. Speak to people. Use the career service. Run for something, even if you are not sure you will win. Ask questions. Try new activities. Let the university challenge you, shape you, and expand your confidence.
The University of Manchester has given me more than academic knowledge. It has given me experiences, friendships, opportunities, and a stronger belief in myself.
- Steven
