Bristol University - Student View

Bristol really has something for everyone. City itself is big enough to offer a diverse range of restaurants, cafes and clubs whilst being small enough to feel a sense of community. The university is situated in the heart of the city and is widely considered to be academically excellent. Students play an important part in the local community and there is a real sense that they are accepted. They tend to stay close to the main university site, living in Clifton (by far the most expensive but popular with some students), Redland or Cotham (hundreds of large houses to let). Expensive city to live in but still possible to find reasonably priced housing and the university's accommodation office is invaluable.

Very student-friendly city with loads to offer socially; literally hundreds of pubs and clubs (including the famous Whiteladies Road that all first years experience on pub crawls!). Established comedy scene is popular; several art galleries and cultural centres including the Watershed and Arnolfini. Music scene not as famous as it was, but loads of venues for new bands to play and big bands play at SU and Colston Hall. Hundreds of places to eat, with cuisine from around the world.

Large, busy SU offers commercial services (eg three bars, theatre, swimming pool and shop) and second largest gig venue in Bristol. It has seven full-time sabbatical officers, who represent students, offer advice (eg tips to avoid exam stress) to managing the students' newspaper. Loads to get involved in; hundreds of clubs and societies, in ballroom dancing to bottled beer. Diverse student base although disproportionate number of students from independent schools and home counties/London (but stereotypes worse than the reality).

Hardship funds available for those who do have problems. Careers service and graduate employment record both good. Bristol students work hard and there is a culture of success. Courses vary in structure: some assessed continually with essays; others rely largely on end of year examinations. The university is famed for its medical and veterinary schools.

A great city to study and work in.