Leicester University - Student View

University close to the city centre. Most first years given places in self-catering accommodation near campus, or halls of residence about 2 miles away in attractive area of Oadby. Halls are mixed and linked to campus by bus service and night-time SU minibus. 3 years in university accommodation possible; but those wanting to live out helped by SU-run property management scheme and accommodation officer.

Excellent SU support services for the large number of postgraduate and international students; half-term play scheme and nursery subsidy for student parents. Restaurants and cafes all over campus cater for wide range of tastes. Campus constantly busy with union building and library open 7 days a week.

SU has many different societies, including over 40 active and friendly sports clubs and 80 societies (co-ordinated by student development officer, who also teaches transferable skills). Excellent commercial services in SU building including large shop, refurbished travel agent, secondhand bookshop, Redfearn bar and kitchen and nightclubs.

Full and varied ents programme with 3 main venues in SU plus big ones in town; large number of international cultural events as well as top name bands and DJs, discos and quizzes. Plenty of opportunities to make friends, meet partners; no restrictions on hours. Anyone can be involved with union council meetings, campaigns and various committees; politically moderate - no racist, sexist or homophobic behaviour allowed in building.

Extensive information for all students on all welfare issues (eg birth control, AIDS) and advice centre open most of week. Few students have cars (parking not allowed on campus, though some at halls). City is extremely busy, with all kinds of shops, pubs and clubs and a huge student population; student discounts at plenty of shops, cinemas, theatres.

Biggest academic departments are medicine and law; large number of scientists, and thriving and varied arts and humanities courses; relatively easy to change course. Graduates go on to wide range of vocations, jobs or postgraduate courses. Work assessed by combination of course work and exams (more continuous assessment since courses modularised).

SU education and research office helps with any academic problems. Students come from all over the world and there is an excellent mixture of creeds, colours and social backgrounds.

Typical student involved in at least 1 society or sports club - good way to make lots of friends, as well as through hall/house. Work taken fairly seriously but everyone takes time to enjoy.