Before I arrived at Chester, I first engaged with the University through the campus open days. I went to a couple of them, which gave me a good opportunity to meet the various lecturers for my course and to take the time to look around the campus again and also to visit the town, which I didn’t have chance to do on the first occasion as there were so many talks that I wanted to attend. I think visiting the campus is crucial to gain an understanding of life at the University. It was really encouraging to see how committed the lecturers are to helping each student succeed and to experience their passion for the subject they teach. They managed to answer all of my questions and the student representatives were also really helpful with non-course questions. I really appreciated the regular contact with the University over the months prior to my A levels; the emails, a good luck card, the online Kitchen Sessions with my tutors over the summer, and the information that they sent to help me prepare for life at the University of Chester. Even if you can’t physically visit the campus at the moment, I would encourage you to look at the online videos as they will give you a feel for life at the University and allow you to take a virtual tour of the campus.
I had lots of information about my course, my timetable and had visited the campus so knew my way around, but I didn’t fully know what to expect in respect of workload and course expectations but, as a language student, the lecturers have always been happy to help with my studies and are extremely knowledgeable about all areas of the course.
Whilst my Fresher’s Week wasn’t a traditional one because of the virus, I was still able to make friends at my accommodation and we did manage one Fresher’s event before we had to go into lockdown. My first term has been engaging and fun. I’ve made friends across many different courses at University and I can’t wait to properly socialise with everyone when the restrictions are eased.
Personally, I have not had to self-isolate, however, there is a great deal of support given to those who are in need of anything. Everyone is happy to help in whatever way they can. I know some people who asked for a few essential shopping items and people would go to the shops and collect the items and deliver them to the door of the person isolating.
I have felt extremely supported by the staff at the University and whilst I haven’t had to access any of the support services, I know they are extremely kind and understanding of individual situations.
As a language student, I feel very lucky to have had so much face to face and online teaching from the University of Chester since September. Since lockdown, all of my lectures have moved online, and I can say that both teaching methods have been extremely useful for my development. Remote learning has allowed us to be a lot more interactive with online activities. For students who won’t be taking exams this year, I want to reassure you and let you know that whatever the outcome you will have a fantastic time at Chester and you’ll enjoy it! You’ll make long lasting friendships and develop your understanding of your course to a high level.
Bonne chance! Viel Glück!
Read what other first years have to say about their experiences at the University of Chester so far in this blog.
