What to Expect at University

Starting university is a brand new experience for many people and very different to what’s come before. It’s normal to be unsure about things and not know what to expect. With Results Day and Clearing just a few months away we’ve shared some of the things you can expect from your new life at university.  

Finding a new home  

Whether you’re moving into accommodation and living away from home for the first time or you’re commuting, you’ll be spending a lot of time at university and it will soon become your new home.  

Our locations are perfect for students to learn and have fun, and we have sites at Chester, Warrington, Shrewsbury and Birkenhead. Our learning sites and accommodation options are conveniently located either in or within walking distance from the city and town centres, offering plenty of opportunities for part-time work, and nightlife that offers a bit of something for everyone.  

Our accommodation was voted in the top five in this year’s Whatuni Student Choice Awards as we offer a range of affordable options to suit all needs, that are conveniently located and safe and secure.  

“For me, the main concern about moving to university was potentially feeling uncomfortable in my accommodation and struggling to settle into such a new environment. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it didn’t take me long to feel at home, both the room and the city itself felt like the perfect fit for me. As well as that, safety was (and still is) an essential element for me, and the Accommodation team have always proven to have that as one of their priorities. Whether it be only being able to access the building with your key card, or the Security team always on-site, I can sleep at night knowing that I’m secure. Though, the comfy bed does help!”  

Phoebe, Creative Writing and Journalism 

Making new friends 

At the University of Chester, we have a welcoming, diverse and inclusive community, where you’ll soon meet new people and make new friends. 

No matter what you choose to study or how you love to spend your time, you’ll fit right in. You can explore a subject you’re passionate about by being taught by research-active experts, studying alongside people who share your passion.  

You’ll soon make friends both in and out of the lecture theatre with a range of extracurricular activities. With a whole host of societies, sports, volunteering and social events to get involved with, you’ll easily find people who share your interests, so making friends is something you can start to look forward to already. 

“As soon as you set foot on campus you can pick up on the positive energy and smiley faces. I was worried that I would find it tricky to make friends. However, there were so many people to meet that it was never an issue. Everyone is so friendly that it really is easier than you think to settle in and find your people; you’ll soon become part of our vibrant and diverse community and it’ll become your home away from home before you know it.”  

Maisy, Biology 

Getting new opportunities 

University can also open up a wealth of new opportunities for you. At the University of Chester we’re all about self-development and providing you with opportunities to help you reach your future aspirations. 

Through courses with built-in employability skills and our Work Based Learning module, you can gain real experience and make real connections in the professional world. You can also gain experience overseas and connect with a global network through our study abroad opportunities. 

We also offer extra opportunities like volunteering placements, the Chester Difference Award, the Venture Programme and free language learning. On top of this, there are part-time job opportunities to earn while you learn and we have a Careers team full of experts who can offer support during your studies and after you graduate. 

“When I initially moved away from the Caribbean to attend university, I was a bit nervous. I didn’t know what to expect but I thought to myself, moving away from home can be a frightening thought for anyone. I was afforded many different opportunities as a student, such as language opportunities, part-time work and career opportunities specific to my subject area. Never did I think that I would be involved in so many different things whilst at uni, but because of that, my preparedness for the working world was made a bit easier.”

Johnmally, Law 

If you’re interested in university but are unsure about your options, you can apply through Clearing. Find out more about Clearing and how you can find your people, your place and your future at the University of Chester.