When I first arrived, I thought uni life was all about lectures, assignments, and maybe grabbing coffee with friends. But as I got more involved and curious, I realised just how many incredible resources are right here, free and ready to use!
If you’re just starting your journey at university (or even if you’ve been here a while but haven’t fully explored what’s on offer), let me give you some insights.
Careers Network
One of the most valuable resources I discovered during my studies was the Careers Network, and I highly recommend making the most of it early on.
You will have a chance to meet people like Tom, George, and Melanie, who are part of the dedicated careers team. They helped me refine my CV, prepare for interviews through detailed mock sessions, and even guided me through job applications step by step. Their feedback was constructive and specific, and they offered structured frameworks that helped me understand how to align my experiences with different job roles.
You can book up to three appointments per semester.
Library and Study Spaces
If you’re anything like me, your study habits probably change depending on the day (or your mood). That’s why I really appreciated the variety in the Library and Study Spaces on campus.
Sometimes I needed total silence to get into the zone, and the designated quiet areas were perfect for that. Other times, I booked a group study room to brainstorm ideas with classmates. You can also borrow laptops, use the desktop computers, and print for free. A huge help during busy deadlines!
Sport & Fitness
After long hours in the library, the Sport & Fitness Centre quickly became my go-to place to recharge. It has everything you could ask for: a massive gym, a stunning 50m pool, squash courts, a climbing wall, and loads of group classes.
More importantly, it gives you the opportunity to join clubs, attend events, and become part of a community outside your academic programme.
Learning Platforms
Last but not least, don’t miss out on the University’s free learning platforms. With your university login, you get free access to:
- LinkedIn Learning – thousands of courses on everything from programming to project management and communication.
- Office 365 – including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams for all your coursework and collaboration needs.
- PebblePad – a personal learning and development platform where you can build a portfolio, track your progress, and reflect on your experiences.
Take the time to explore these resources, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or advice when you need it!