UWE Bristol | Student views blog

How to save money as a UWE Bristol student

Student Views | 25 July 202324 August 2023

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.

Why I love studying at UWE Bristol

Student Views | 25 July 202324 August 2023

By Abigail, BA(Hons) Sociology

From the moment I stepped onto UWE Bristol’s Frenchay Campus at an Open Day, I knew that this University was the perfect place for me.

A connected student community

The first thing that stood out to me was the sense of community. As UWE Bristol is a campus university, everything is all in one place and it feels like its own little community of students. All buildings are within walking distance of one another, which makes rolling out of bed ten minutes before a lecture possible. The campus has fantastic facilities including the Students’ Union shop which stocks all the essentials, the Centre for Sport, the Health Centre, several food and drink outlets such as Greggs, Subway, Starbucks, the Atrium Café and The Grill, and the Students’ Union itself.

Getting involved at the Students’ Union

During my time at UWE Bristol, I’ve spent a lot of time at the Students’ Union. Regular events for students are held there, with some highlights being the quiz nights, drag shows and sports event screenings. The Student Life team also put on events all throughout the year, with the aim of bringing the student community together. These events include free or discounted trips to attractions in Bristol, such as Ninja Warrior, the Harbourside and the Bristol Hippodrome, as well as events on campus, including pizza and games nights.

Before coming to university, one of my biggest worries was that I would feel lonely or that I would struggle to meet people with similar interests, however, I was proved wrong. There is always an event or an activity happening on campus and there is always something for everyone.

There is always an event or an activity happening on campus and there is always something for everyone.

Within walking distance of Frenchay Campus, there are a number of large supermarkets and restaurants, as well as two shopping centres (Cabot Circus and Cribbs Causeway) a short bus journey away. Activities such as bowling, mini golf and the cinema are also nearby, which can be used as a great icebreaker when getting to know new friends.

My accommodation on campus

During my first year at UWE Bristol, I lived in on-campus accommodation at the Student Village. Student Village accommodation consists of flats of six en-suite bedrooms and a communal kitchen/living area. This accommodation was very sociable, and the communal courtyards in between the different accommodation blocks meant that it was easy to meet people from different flats as well as your own.

The accommodation felt safe and secure with card access to all buildings, flats and individual bedrooms, and there were always numbers to call or staff to speak to if there was a problem. Also, the ease of walking to the on-campus library from my accommodation meant that after those late-night study sessions, it was never a long walk back.

My course

Another highlight of my time here was the course itself. I studied BA(Hons) Sociology, beginning the course in the middle of Covid-19. The support from all academic staff during my entire course was fantastic, and they have an open-door policy with their students. It was clear that the academic staff saw the importance of forming positive relationships with the students, as well as amongst the students themselves, as my course leader often arranged course events including meals, theatre visits and course-related trips to Bristol city centre.

The support from all the academic staff during my entire course was fantastic.

The main thing that drew me to this course specifically was that the modules are developed and tailored to suit the interests of both the students and lecturers. The lecture content allowed for flexibility, depending on what the students were interested in. Also the lecturers were always super passionate about their subject – a great way to keep students engaged.

Assignment styles are also structured to suit all abilities, including presentations, essays, blogs and case studies. As someone who did not get on with formal exams in my Sixth Form, this was ideal for me. I always felt valued and respected by all staff at UWE Bristol, and students’ interests were always put first.

Living in Bristol

Bristol played a large role in my university experience too. It’s such a diverse city. From the amazing nightlife to the quaint cafés, the restaurants and bars and the museums and art, there is something for everyone. I have really enjoyed exploring a new city, and I’m still finding new things to do and see in and around the city.

Bristol played a large role in my university experience too.

Throughout the year, Bristol holds a range of events including the famous Bristol Balloon Fiesta, the Harbourside Festival, Bristol Pride, the Light Festival, and Bristol Sounds. Coming from a small market town, it’s been great to attend some of these large-scale events and really immerse myself in city life.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Bristol also has a wide range of green spaces, such as Clifton Downs (with incredible views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge), Brandon Hill, and Ashton Court Estate. Closer to Frenchay Campus, Stoke Park and Snuff Mills there are also lovely green spaces – the perfect place for a walk to de-stress from the academic pressures of university.

My biggest piece of advice to anyone applying for university is to attend an Open Day if you can. Before visiting UWE Bristol, I had no idea where I wanted to go, but visiting the University gave me a gut feeling that this was the place for me. I’m happy to confirm that this feeling was right. Everything I’ve mentioned in this blog has contributed to the fantastic experience I’ve had at UWE Bristol, and I hope gives you an idea of what life at UWE Bristol is like.

My biggest piece of advice to anyone applying for university is to attend an Open Day if you can.

Discover more about student life at UWE Bristol.

How Ollie followed his passion for rugby at UWE Bristol

Student Views | 25 July 202324 August 2023

By Ollie, BA(Hons) Business and Events Management

Before joining UWE Bristol

Since the age of 9, I would play football every Saturday and rugby union every Sunday. When I was about to start secondary school, I had to choose one to continue playing, which was an easy decision as I enjoyed rugby more and was naturally better at it. Since joining secondary school in Gloucestershire, I had been playing for my school team and avidly supporting Gloucester rugby. As I progressed through school, I briefly quit playing to focus more on my upcoming exams. This was difficult but ultimately the right decision for me at the time. After leaving school I was very eager to get back into the sport I love, so I knew that I would try out for the UWE Bristol team as soon as I was accepted onto my course.

I was very eager to get back into the sport I love.

Joining the UWE Bristol rugby team

I remember being extremely nervous when going to the societies fair. I’m normally quite a confident person and nothing really fazes me, however I was very aware that I hadn’t played rugby for a long time and would be signing up at the same time as 100 other lads, so might be a bit out of my depth in terms of ability and experience. Despite this I signed up and was welcomed to the squad with open arms. Going along to my first training session was great. I felt like I was in school again, I was not only grateful to get some exercise and fresh air, but also to meet some great lads who had also spent time away from playing and were apprehensive to start back up again.

Becoming a part of the team

After a couple of weeks’ of training the club was divided into four teams depending on ability and experience, with the opportunity to progress to a higher team. The first and second teams trained together and the third and fourth teams also trained together on a different day. I was put into the third team playing as a prop. For as long as I can remember, my position has been as either a tighthead or loosehead prop, so I was very grateful for this outcome.

First game for UWE Bristol

I was very excited and honoured to play my first game for UWE Bristol against Cardiff Metropolitan. Although they were a lot better and we got absolutely battered, I still had a great time representing the university in my red and white kit and enjoyed a drink or two with my teammates after the game.

I was very excited and honoured to play my first game for UWE Bristol against Cardiff Metropolitan.

The social side of rugby

As part of the team, I’ve attended some great nights outs and themed events such as Christmas parties and team dinners. This is a huge part of being in the UWE Bristol team as it makes you closer to your teammates and helps unwind from juggling the stresses that can come with uni assignments.

Why I’m glad that I joined the UWE Bristol team

Starting rugby again has given me that enjoyment that I really missed when playing as a young boy and has introduced me to some good lads who I will keep in contact with for years to come.

Discover what you could get involved in at UWE Bristol.

How running 27 miles helped UWE Bristol student, Chloe, raise awareness of student mental health.

Student Views | 6 May 202114 February 2023

By Chloe, BA (Hons) Creative and Professional Writing

Student Chloe, talks about what inspired her to run 27 miles for the charity, Mind. She shares how this has helped her to become more aware of her own mental health and how she hopes to inspire other students to talk about mental health and find their own coping strategies. Keep reading to find out more.

How being in the right learning environment is helping me to thrive.

Student Views | 7 October 202014 February 2023

by Chloe, BA (Hons) Creative and Professional Writing

Delights on campus

Moving to a new city and starting a new chapter at university is by far one of the most exciting things I have ever done. There is so much exploring to do in Bristol, from the Clifton Suspension Bridge to Millennium Square, not to mention all of the amazing independent businesses and quirky stalls in the popular markets. However, it never occurred to me that there were so many hidden gems on the UWE Bristol campus itself!

As well as having quick and convenient bus links to and from the city centre, amazing resource centres and helpful career hubs, Frenchay Campus boasts some beautiful spaces to work and chill with your friends. Due to the fact there is so much choice, there is always somewhere you can go.

Whether you prefer somewhere that you can have a bite to eat or somewhere quieter, there is no doubt that you can find it on campus.
Chloe

Frenchay Campus library

One of my favourite places to study is the library, which has a range of zones over five floors! Each level has a different purpose which means you can study in a variety of environments, allowing you to find a space perfect for you.

From Help Zones (Level 2), Quiet Study (Level 3) to the main Study Zone (Level 4), to silent Study (Level 5) you can find the perfect spot to work on assignments and research.

You can also book study spaces and individual study rooms which are so useful if you have a group project and want your own room, or even if you have a conference.

The Library Lounge on Level 4 gives you the chance to buy drinks and have a quick break in between sessions, which is a huge bonus to keep yourself refreshed and stay focussed.

For me the library has been somewhere that I have used most frequently since joining UWE Bristol because you can stay focussed in any zone that makes you feel comfortable – plus the staff in the help pods are so helpful and approachable.
Chloe

I think that having such a good environment to use and enjoy, with so much choice, has enhanced the way I look at studying and means that me and my friends can use each zone depending on how we feel when we come in.

Business school booths and the Atrium cafe

Talking of places that you can get a bite to eat, another one of my favourite places on the UWE Bristol Frenchay Campus is the beautiful Business School.

This is one of the newest builds on campus and one of the most gorgeous buildings inside and out! It has such a modern feel and the Atrium Café on the ground floor is a great place to just hang out even if you haven’t come for a lecture or self-study. The food on offer is really tasty, quick and healthy – no wonder it’s such a popular spot!

As well as this, X block as it’s more commonly known, flaunts teaching and office spaces and booths over seven floors, so there is more than enough space to find a spot.

The Students’ Union

Now the real community hub of UWE Bristol is the Students Union! This is where students hang out, go to events and a hot spot for food and drink. There is always something being run either at the SU building or online, meaning there is never a dull moment. UWE Bristol wouldn’t be complete without the SU – it’s all part of the experience!

The SU team run so many competitions where you can win some ace prizes and connect with new people. It is a great place to mingle and I met some students there that are now still close friends.

It’s good to have somewhere that isn’t study related where you can chill out and just have a break.
Chloe

The variety on Frenchay Campus at UWE Bristol is something that has made my experience at UWE Bristol both productive and fun. The choice is unbelievable and there is always somewhere to go that has exactly the vibe you want. Being comfortable and confident is so easy when there are so many options to hang out and I think that’s what is so unique about UWE Bristol – we aren’t just a university, we are a community.

Find out more about campus life.

How working with the Mayor of Bristol gave me a great insight into the world of politics.

Student Views | 14 August 202029 June 2021

by Mamadou, BA(Hons) Politics and International Relations.

Politics and International Relations student Mamadou shares his experience of mentoring and internship, gained through the UWE Equity Programme. Hear how he got to work with the Mayor of Bristol, what he discovered about himself and the opportunities it has opened up for his future career.

Postgraduate study at UWE Bristol enabled me to reach my potential.

Student Views | 9 June 202029 June 2021

By Lamare, MSc Human Resources Management alum

UWE Bristol alum, Lamare, tell us about progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate studies at UWE Bristol. He shares the benefits of continuing / staying at uni to study a master’s degree, as well as his experiences of pursuing further study.

Experience UWE Bristol through the eyes of our students

Student Views | 2 July 201829 June 2021

Welcome to our student views blog

Choosing where you want to spend the next three years of your life – or longer – isn’t easy. So you need an opinion you can trust. You’ll want to hear from the students who actually study here.

Our eager team of students have joined together to tell you about their experiences of living and studying at UWE Bristol.

Through a series of podcast, blogs and short films they’ll tell you about the whole university experience in their own words. From the clubs and societies they’ve joined, to living in Bristol and the accommodation and facilities on offer here. Find out how they felt about coming to university at the start, the challenges they may have faced and the advice they have to offer.

Keep an eye out for regular posts and articles designed to help you experience UWE Bristol through the eyes of our students and give you an insight into what it’s really like to study here.