Imperial College Wye Campus - Student View

Unique in its situation and lifestyle, Wye provides students with London University qualifications while being in a very beautiful part of the Kent countryside. Increasingly diverse student body, coming from a wide geographical area and varied social backgrounds but generally most in some way involved with the countryside. The result is a very harmonious community.

Courses run on a unit system, with some assessment on course work during the year, and exams in the summer. Failure rates low, lecture sizes small. Wye has its own farm estate to give students real practical knowledge (you can bring your own horse, too, to a well-equipped yard). Most staff have worked in their field of study in the private sector. All students have a director of studies to help them if they run into trouble.

First years accommodated in halls of residence all within easy walking distance of lectures, SU, village shops, and the local station. In the second and third years, students tend to live in the large number of rented houses available; useful (but not essential) to own a car then.

SU very active, but not politically aligned, mainly due to the rather easy-going nature of the students. Any group of students who wish to form a society can be sponsored by the union; Imperial and ULU facilities available but not close.

SU particularly successful at fund raising for charity in rag week, usually by fairly unconventional means; this is one of the highlights of first year, as is freshers' week and cricket week (after exams in the summer). There are about 5 black-tie balls a year (good idea to lay your hands on appropriate clothes!), and a live band or a disco in the union most weeks.

First years quickly feel at home; Wye has a relaxed, easy-going atmosphere. It remains at the top of its class in teaching, facilities, the student participation in the union and the enjoyment students get out of Wye. Wellies and a generally laid back attitude essential.