Student life questions
What is life like as a student?
It can be whatever you want it to be, but for the most part
students split their time between studying, taking part in other
aspects of university life (such as clubs, societies and
volunteering), socialising, and part-time work. Each individual has
their own priorities and experiences – it’s about taking advantage
of the opportunities that are available and balancing study,
leisure and work. If you get the balance right it can be a
challenging, but immensely enjoyable lifestyle.
Where would I live?
Most first year students live in university
accommodation (often known as ‘Halls’). Usually you have your
own bedroom and sometimes bathroom but you may share a kitchen /
bathroom with other students. After their first year most students
move out of Halls and live locally in shared houses with their
friends. The loans and grants you will be entitled to will cover
the cost of accommodation.
What happens during the holidays?
Many students go home during the holidays to see friends or
family. However a good number stay as well to continue with work or
study. If you prefer to stay in Halls throughout the holidays this
can usually be arranged.
[back to
top]
How will I make friends?
There are lots of opportunities to meet people at university.
Initially most people make friends with the people they live with,
the people on their course and people in sports clubs or other
societies run through the Students’ Union. There is usually a club
or society that you may be interested in and it’s a great way of
meeting like-minded individuals and making friends. Don’t forget
you will still have your friends from home too!
Can I work a part time job and study at the same time?
Yes – many students work part time. You need to balance it with
your other commitments so that you have enough time for everything,
but it is a good way to increase your income and broaden your
horizons at the same time! YSJConnect
can help you find part time work.
If I need help will there be someone there to help me?
Yes – all students have access to a wide range of support, but
young people from a care background will be linked with someone who
can help you out with any issues you are worried about. This might
include helping you work with your Local Authority to get the
support you are entitled to, or it could be working with you to
manage your money, accommodation and other aspects of university
life. They can also just be a friendly face to stay in contact with
– someone who cares about your wellbeing while you are at
university. The care leaver contacts at York St John University is
Anna Herbert, you can contact her at careleavers@yorksj.ac.uk
What about general health and wellbeing?
Part of being at university is about learning how to take look
after yourself. However this happens within a supportive
environment – at York St John University there is a Health Centre on campus, a counselling service and disability
support. York is a very safe city to live in as long as you
take reasonable steps to take care of yourself. The campus has 24/7
security on call.
[back to
top]
General
questions »
Finance
questions »
Subject and
study questions »
Questions
about moving from care to university »