Hello! My name is Anna. I moved to the UK in 2021 to attend the University of Bristol where I currently study English Literature as a first-year student. After obtaining my bachelors, I plan to pursue a career in the publishing industry as a book editor. Alternatively, I’d love to work in digital marketing/social media development.
What I’m Studying
I decided to study English Literature because I found it to be the course that would bring me the most enjoyment. I love that the course offers me the ability to analyse complex topics from a variety of perspectives and enhance my communication abilities. I’ve found that studying English has given me transferable skills that would be beneficial no matter the field I decide to pursue.
My accommodation experience
Being a first year, I stay in university managed accommodation in a flat of ten students. The bathroom and kitchen are both shared, and we lack any proper common space. The halls are catered, which I understand to be the less popular choice among students. However, I have found the shared meals to be a great way to keep social and get closer to your flatmates. Similarly, not having to worry about cooking three meals a day has allowed me to focus more of my time on my studies. I highly recommend applying for catered accommodation to new students!
Working at Accommodation for Students
I joined the student team at Accommodation for Students to help develop their social media presence on platforms such as Tik Tok and Youtube. Social media development has been an area of passion for me and gaining further experience alongside my studies is an amazing opportunity. Accommodation for Students is a great tool for students and I look forward to contributing to that resource, helping both home and international students navigate university life. My favourite part of working at Accommodation for Students is the flexibility and creativity allotted to me as a member of the student team. I am able to build my work schedule around my studies, planning and working on content independently, while still having guidance should I request it.
Advice for new students
Whether international or UK based, moving to university can be a daunting experience. It’s important to remember that everyone around you is also feeling those same fears and hesitations. My biggest advice, as cliche as it may be, is to simply be yourself. If you aren’t interested in the clubbing side of university, you don’t have to partake in it. If you do want to, go for it! Try new societies, go to dinner with your flat, talk to the people around you in your lectures. There are so many ways to meet new people, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
