Category: Student experience

Battling anxiety as a first-generation student

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By Marcus, BA(Hons) Creative and Professional Writing

In this blog, Marcus opens up about navigating anxiety and imposter syndrome as a first‑generation student. He shares what helped him find confidence and offers reassuring advice for anyone feeling unsure about starting university. Read more.

“During sixth form, I didn’t think university was for me. Neither of my parents did higher education, and the prospect of choosing (let alone paying) for another three years of study felt laughably unrealistic to me, despite decent grades.”

My A-Levels were disrupted by lockdown, so my plan of ‘do a gap year and decide what to do later’ became getting a hospitality job and working for four years. While I believe it helped me mature and I wouldn’t have it any other way, after a while I felt unfulfilled and wanted to explore my options.

Even though my parents were brilliant and encouraging, navigating the first steps towards university without someone to look to for advice was extremely daunting. The task of writing a UCAS statement after leaving education for several years seemed legitimately impossible, despite how badly I wanted to attend. I ended up reaching out to old school friends and asking for the most basic advice (such as do I need to bring a notebook and a laptop to class?) which is something I would really recommend.

Facing imposter syndrome

When I got to uni, I thought my anxieties would fade away and I’d get swept up in the exciting frenzy of university life.  I didn’t expect the fear of ‘have I made the wrong choice?’ to linger over me. Terrifyingly, the doubts continued. Being slightly older than some of my peers, I lacked the wide-eyed joy at seeing the world on my own for the first time. All I could think about was how much more dedicated and ambitious the people around me must be. I worried I had made a mistake and that I didn’t belong here. I didn’t allow myself to enjoy learning new things because I felt I wasn’t good enough.

“Now in my third year, I am so pleased to say by sticking with it and giving myself the chance my parents never got, I finally feel I belong. I am learning I love studying, a realisation 18-year-old me would be equally horrified and proud to find out.” 

Being able to sit in a café with a coffee and my laptop scrutinising articles is now a hobby; something I never thought I’d admit to. Had I not allowed myself this opportunity, I would never have found this out.

Taking the leap

The biggest piece of advice I can offer – and the one I wish someone had told me was this: feeling unsure is completely natural. Taking the leap is half of the battle. If you’ve already done that, you’ve done the hard work. There are so many people at UWE Bristol that are there to talk if you don’t feel you can ask specific questions of your family. That could be lecturers, course leaders or even fellow students in similar situations. I can say with complete certainty that if you feel the way I did, it does get better. All I wish is that I’d spoken to someone about it sooner, because the people around you are there to help. I’m so glad I decided to go to university.

Find out more about undergraduate study at UWE Bristol and how you can support first generation students.

Why I chose to stay at UWE Bristol for postgraduate study

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By Hannah, UWE Bristol graduate

Hannah joined UWE Bristol in 2019 to study BA(Hons) English Language and Linguistics, graduating in 2022. Here she shares why she decided on UWE Bristol for her Master’s in Digital Marketing and why it made sense for her to stay here for postgraduate study.

Choosing postgrad study to support my career direction

“By the end of my undergraduate course, I’d become interested in a career in marketing, so I started considering marketing courses at postgraduate level. I talked to academic staff for advice on which course would suit my career aims best. They were so helpful in my decision making and soon after I applied to study a Master’s in Digital Marketing at UWE Bristol.

I wanted to go straight from my undergraduate to my postgraduate degree without time out because I knew which career I was aiming for and wanted to move towards this. Also, I felt it might be harder to come back to study if I started working first, so I was keen to stay in the studying mindset for another year.

My dream career

My dream career is to work in marketing in the exciting, fast-paced world of F1. I’m super motivated by my goal as I love everything about F1. The marketing is so rich considering all the sponsors, car design, race suits, the special liveries. It would also be a dream to travel around the world following race cars during the season. F1 is a spectacle so marketing plays a huge role and it’s something I can’t wait to get involved in.

How my master’s will support me to get into my dream career

As an incredibly competitive, male-dominated industry, I knew it would be tough to break into F1, so I realised a master’s would give me the edge. Having now completed my course, I’m confident it has. I have all the skills I need to step into a high-pressure marketing role in F1.

With the sport having a high reliance on technology, I think the digital focus of my qualification will add value to my CV. I’ve also gained useful skills such as Photoshop, web design, and search engine optimisation tactics.

Plus, I created a marketing portfolio to showcase my best work, which is something I can take to interviews to show employers what I can achieve. I’m confident all that I’ve learnt will stand me in good stead when applying for F1 jobs.

“As an incredibly competitive, male-dominated industry, I knew it would be tough to break into F1, so I realised a master’s would give me the edge.”

Why go anywhere else?

When I was thinking about where to study at postgrad level, I realised I felt happy and settled in Bristol already. I’d fallen in love with the city; I had an amazing group of friends; a lovely place to live. I’d created this great student life that I loved. So, when I found the right postgrad course for me at UWE Bristol, the question dawned on me, ‘why go anywhere else?’

Everything I needed was here and by staying at UWE Bristol I could move seamlessly into postgrad study. That really appealed to me, and I know now that I made the right decision as it helped me to excel at my course.

“I’d created this great student life that I loved. So, when I found the right postgrad course for me at UWE Bristol, the question dawned on me ‘why go anywhere else?’ “

What studying at master’s level has given me

While I enjoyed my undergrad, I would say I loved my postgrad. In your undergrad you learn great skills, but a master’s takes you to the next level and prepares you for your career. I felt really connected to my course and I’ve learned even more at master’s level. A master’s can really set you apart from the competition too, giving you the edge so you stand out from others.

What’s next for me?

Now that I’ve finished my master’s, I’m looking to get work experience with a reputable brand in F1. I can’t wait to break into the industry. I look forward to updating you in the future on my progress. Watch this space!”

Life as an international student at UWE Bristol

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By Angelica, BA (Hons) Media Communications

Getting involved in social activities at university can be fun and sometimes a little daunting, but being a student at UWE Bristol, I found it easy to socialise as there are so many things on offer here. I want to share my experiences of UWE Bristol with you, focusing on the social spaces that have enriched my student life.

Finding the ideal study area is important for a student like me, and luckily the University provides a wide range of options. From the modern library to the cosy study pods, everyone can find a study space to suit them. The Street Learning Zone in S Block is a personal favourite of mine. Tucked away in a quiet corner, it’s so relaxing to study there. Long study periods are made more convenient by the available computers and free water refill stations.

Being a foodie, I was thrilled to learn about the variety of food options available on campus too. UWE Bristol offers delicious Asian food, such as sushi, onigiri, and chicken katsu curry at the OneZone, which quickly became my go-to option. The University also accommodates all tastes and dietary preferences, such as vegan, vegetarian etc., so there really is something for everyone.

One of the most amazing things about UWE Bristol is its celebration of diversity and inclusivity. When I arrived, I was a little concerned at first about fitting in as an international student from Indonesia. However, when I saw how friendly and welcoming the staff and students are, I knew I didn’t need to worry. Students from all ethnicities and backgrounds are actively encouraged to interact and celebrate their individuality at the University.

One of the most amazing things about UWE Bristol is its celebration of diversity and inclusivity.

The Global Café events have been great for me as an international student as they provide a space for us to share our cultures, languages, and unique perspectives. It was fun to connect with other international students and hear their perspectives on moving to a new country and navigating uni life.

Living in Bristol is fantastic too. The city offers amazing restaurants, museums, and a buzzing social scene. Bristol is a hub of creativity, culture, and nightlife, offering an array of options to unwind and socialise with other students. There is a perfect place for any mood and occasion, whether you want to enjoy live music or cosy bars. The Harbourside area is one of my favourites; there are plenty of things to do and you can’t beat the view.

Bristol is a hub of creativity, culture and nightlife.

If you’re coming to UWE Bristol, I encourage you to get involved in all that’s on offer. When you connect with other students you’ll create lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever. I’m grateful for the moments and incredible friendships that have blossomed within this community that’s been special to me. And remember, your journey at UWE Bristol is not just about getting a great degree, but also about developing yourself and embracing a vibrant student experience that will stay with you for years to come.

Discover more about international study at UWE Bristol.

My tips on how to get a placement

Author Student Views | Posted on

By Luke, BSc(Hons) Digital Media

Last summer I decided to get prepared and create a first-year work portfolio, so I would be ready to apply for placements with my portfolio, and then just be able to keep updating it during my second year. This would have been a great idea had I done as planned. However, I ended up creating my portfolio as soon as I got back to university in the second year, rushing to create something to send off for applications. Due to being a little rushed, my portfolio was not as well designed as it could have been, resulting in missing a few application deadlines.

While creating my portfolio, I was doing it alongside my housemate/partner and there was one key difference between our portfolios, which was the experience they gained over the summer. They successfully secured an internship through the University, and it was clear how their portfolio played a key role in this. With this experience under their belt and their excellent portfolio, they were quick to get placement interviews resulting in a placement offer later in the year. It would be unfair to say they got the placement through the experience alone, but it put them in a stronger position over someone such as myself who lacked that experience.

Internships with the University are always advertised on the InfoHub and are updated during the year, so there is a constant flow of them. Before the end of the year, the University sends e-comms  reminding students to consider an internship to gain experience over the summer. My advice would be for anyone looking for a second-year placement is to take advantage of this opportunity and apply to as many as possible.

Internships with the University are always advertised on the InfoHub and are updated during the year, so there is a constant flow of them.

Early on in 2023, I realised that while I was getting interest from placement providers, it wasn’t going anywhere, so I decided to change my portfolio design. With the Christmas break coming up I designed every page on paper and then translated it onto the website using the programme, WiX. After revising my portfolio, I started making it further along in the application process and in some cases getting to the final stage. In one instance the employer had to choose between two of us and unfortunately, I was unsuccessful. This is where the experience would have been key.

Realising I needed experience, I applied for internships that are available throughout the year. I made it through a lot of applications and eventually picked the one I wanted. With this experience, coupled with my role as a student content creator, my CV was in a much stronger place than at the start of the year.

I realised too late and all the placement opportunities I wanted were gone, but there are still placements available this late in the year. However, I’ve now decided on an alternative path and I’ll be applying for another internship during my third year, hoping to gain more experience to strengthen my CV further. So, my  advice to students applying for placements is to apply for internships during the first year and over the summer, and to create a portfolio early on and update it during your second and third years.

I recommend you apply for all the placements you see, as it is never too late to apply and learn from the rejections. Also, maybe take a step back or get someone to look at your application for some constructive feedback. Ask the Careers Service for some help to help you create a CV and portfolio too.

And finally, don’t forget the University is there to support you, so make sure you take advantage of all that’s on offer. You could find you leave UWE Bristol with experience in three internships and a placement, and this real-world experience will really stand out on your CV and impress an employer.

Navigating the cost-of-living crisis as a student at UWE Bristol

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By Jessica, BA(Hons) English Language and Linguistics

Living as a student in Bristol has been an incredible adventure filled with exciting new experiences, academic growth, and valuable life lessons. Throughout my journey at the UWE Bristol, I’ve discovered how to tap into what’s on offer to make living costs more manageable. Here in this blog, I’m going to delve deeper into how I’ve been able to stretch my budget further while here. This includes everything from affordable public transport, diverse job opportunities, student discounts, and cheap eats.

Public transport discounts

Bristol’s public transport is both convenient and affordable and commuting in Bristol is easy. First Bus, the city’s primary bus operator, goes the extra mile to support students by offering discounts. Whether you’re heading to lectures, exploring Bristol’s beautiful parks, or discovering hidden gems, the bus network has become an essential part of my daily routine. Not only do the discounts make getting around more affordable, but they also encourage students like me to embrace all that Bristol has to offer.

Lots of job opportunities

Bristol’s vibrant economy is teeming with diverse job opportunities, making it an ideal place for students to earn while they learn. There are plenty of part-time jobs available in retail and hospitality, which is ideal to fit around your studies.

Bristol’s vibrant economy is teeming with diverse job opportunities.

Student discounts and benefits

As a student city, Bristol really values its students and there are so many discounts available using the TOTUM card. This student discount card opens doors to huge savings. From discounted cinema tickets to gym memberships and more, the TOTUM card has become a trusted companion for students looking for fun activities they can afford. Being able to unwind with friends at the movies or maintain a healthy lifestyle at a reduced cost supports our budget and enhances our overall university experience.

Great food at a price you can afford

Bristol’s food scene offers a tantalising mix of flavours, catering to all tastes and budgets. Among the many culinary discoveries I’ve made, one that stands out is the fruit and veg stall on Frenchay Campus. This hidden gem offers an array of fresh produce at incredibly reasonable prices, allowing students like me to maintain a healthy diet on a budget. Also UWE Bristol is great at providing a wide range of good, affordable food on campus without putting a strain on our wallets.

My time here at UWE Bristol has been unforgettable and despite the cost-of-living crisis, it is possible to have a great time and find ways to live well on a student budget.

Discover more about managing your student finances at UWE Bristol.

How to save money as a UWE Bristol student

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By Maria, BSc(Hons) Criminology with Psychology

As a final-year student, I know the struggle of having spent years saving. There are always challenges beyond our control and the rising cost-of-living is one such challenge we all face. I soon realised that I needed to adapt my lifestyle to survive these difficult times financially. So let’s take a look at my tips to help you save money too.

I soon realised that I needed to adapt my lifestyle to survive these difficult times financially.

Consider your transport costs

For people who work part-time and only work a few days each week, instead of using a weekly bus pass, use the 2-trip pass. I only work a few days per week, and I don’t really go out often, so that’s why I now use the 2-trip (return) bus pass, which is £2.70, whereas a whole week would cost me £18.80. This has saved me loads of money – so that’s £10 to save in my piggy bank.

Take advantage of the many Students’ Union offers

If you can’t live without your mocha frappés at Starbucks, especially during hot summer months, the struggle is real. One thing I really love now are the offers you get from the Students’ Union. From iced lattés to lemon water to the ‘bring a bag’ days on campus where you can fill your bag with free food, there’s so much on offer. They post every offer and activity available on Instagram and in the student comms too, so you need to keep an eye out for any updates. The free food giveaways at the Students’ Union offer a great selection of vegetarian and meat options – it’s a fun thing to do with your mates. What is not to like about freebies after all, especially when you’re a student.

Find your inner chef

One of the things many of us don’t enjoy is … cooking. For me, Fridays are for takeaways or going to that Italian restaurant at Cabot Circus in the centre. But remember the more money you save, the better it is for you.

You can definitely save money by cooking your own meals more. That recipe you liked on Instagram last year would come in handy now, especially if it’s student friendly. I was really pleased as I managed to make five meals for £10 – my parents were very impressed. There are Instagram accounts specifically catering for student budget meals that taste as good as those from a pub or restaurant. Also, those TikTok videos from student chefs will save you a ton of time prepping, buying, and cooking rather than paying for the bus ticket and spending it elsewhere.

I was really pleased as I managed to make five meals for £10.

Save, save, save

We can all focus on saving if we really want to and when we need to. Just think of all that money you save can go towards those ever-increasing bills. Also, changing the way you think can help you to change your lifestyle and often this is for the better. Despite these hard economic times, you can still have a good time like seeing your mates for a coffee at the Students’ Union or making a meal with friends at home. There are plenty of opportunities for connecting with people, without all the expense.

Discover more about managing your student finances at UWE Bristol.

Joining the Law Society at UWE Bristol

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By Phoo, LLB(Hons) Law

Joining the Law Society at UWE Bristol has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my university life. As a law student with a strong interest in the legal profession, I was eager to participate in extracurricular activities that would complement my studies while also providing a platform for personal and professional development.

Joining the Law Society at UWE Bristol has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my university life.

Here I’ll share my personal journey with the Law Society, highlighting the reasons why I decided to join, the activities and structure of the society, the friendships I’ve made, and how being part of the society has enriched my university experience overall.

Before joining the Law Society, I had a significant interest in law, but my exposure to the practical aspects of the legal field was limited. I wanted to bridge this gap by actively engaging with like-minded individuals and professionals who shared the same enthusiasm for the law. The Law Society at UWE Bristol provided the perfect avenue to connect with fellow law students, gain insights from industry experts, and explore various legal career opportunities. It offered me the chance to gain practical exposure, allowing me to apply my knowledge to real-world situations.

The Law Society at UWE Bristol provided the perfect avenue to connect with fellow law students, gain insights from industry experts, and explore various legal career opportunities.

The Law Society is well structured around a committee consisting of passionate and dedicated law students. They organise a wide range of events and activities throughout the academic year, including guest speaker sessions, panel discussions, mooting competitions, legal skills workshops, and networking events with legal professionals. These activities provided me with valuable opportunities to enhance my legal knowledge, develop key skills, and connect with industry experts.

The Law Society is not only open to all law students but also to other students at UWE Bristol who are interested in law and debate. The society embraces diversity and inclusivity, recognising that each member brings a unique perspective to the table. Whether you’re a first-year undergraduate or a postgraduate student, the doors of the society are wide open, encouraging collaboration, friendship, and growth. Additionally, there are social gatherings providing opportunities for members to interact and build connections outside of the group.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my involvement with the Law Society has been the friendships I’ve formed along the way. Through shared experiences, engaging in group activities, and attending social events, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. The society’s welcoming and inclusive atmosphere fosters an environment where friendships naturally flourish, allowing us to support and encourage each other throughout our university journey.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my involvement with the Law Society has been the friendships I’ve formed along the way.

Joining the Law Society at UWE Bristol has been a transformative experience for me. It has provided me with a platform to explore my passions, gain valuable insights, and grow both personally and professionally. I encourage every law student to get involved in the university law society, as it can truly enhance your university journey and pave the way for a successful legal career.

Discover what you could get involved in at UWE Bristol.

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