University rating
Tell us about your overall university experience so far.
The University of Reading has provided me with a fantastic experience both educationally and socially. The campus is huge and absolutely beautiful. Its natural beauty is breathtaking in all seasons. There is a great range of courses and many joint options that other universities don't provide. The night life and city life will keep you on your feet and campus life has something to offer every day of the week.
Facilities
How good are your university's facilities?
The UoR campus literally lacks nothing when it comes to facilities. You have everything you need. When I lived on campus in first year, I honestly never had to leave for anything essential. You have countless coffee shops, canteens and bars to eat and drink at. The library is open 24hrs a day in the week. The union has everything else you possibly need in terms of amenities. Only thing is the campus is large so be prepared to walk.
Student support
How good is the support offered by the uni? Think both academic (tutors/feedback) and personal (counselling, etc).
In first year, second term I literally ran out of money completely and panicked so badly. I went to the financial advisers in the student union and they were angels. they arranged for me to get an access to learning fund which helped me get through till my next student finance payment. All the support is there so there is no reason to feel lost when you study here.
Students' union
What do you think of your Students' Union in terms of student representation and facilities?
You have everything you need in the student union, a Mailbox Inc, job agents, estate agents, hairdresser, book shop, bar, cafe, huge 3sixty nightclub (used for countless other things during the day), student advisors, international food shop and so much more. Literally everything you could ever need, RUSU has it.
Local life
Is your university in a good location in terms of distance to accommodation and local amenities?
Reading is so vibrant as a city. I thought I would find it hard moving to somewhere smaller as I am from London and I love the hustle and bustle of a big city! Reading felt no different to London except slightly more compact. I am still discovering amazing cocktail bars, restaurants, attractions and events to this day! You are spoilt for choice when it comes to night life. Everywhere is great and accessible. Though, if you drive they have quite a few annoying one way systems!
Societies and Sports
How would you rate the variety of societies/sports?
There is a huge buzz around most sports clubs and the societies make a great impact for uni life. I joined the feminism society, the drama society and the fine art society. It allowed me to make friends beyond my course and halls and they all have separate programmes that keep things exciting throughout the year. I acted in the autumn production for the drama society which draws a huge crowd every year. Last year I went to Prague with the fine art society which was amazing! My experience has been great.
Lecturers and teaching quality
What do you like most and least about the way your course(s) are taught?
I am on Fine Art and History of Art joint course. I love my course so much. My studio tutor is someone I feel I can discuss anything with and get the support I need for my course. The course content is wide and varied and keeps me on my feet.
The only thing I'd argue with my course is that they should provide more online resources for us on Blackboard.
Career prospects
How does your uni make efforts to increase your employability (careers department, work placements, transferable skills)?
UoR provides amazing support and integrated careers advice with your course, ( or most that I am aware of). They have advisers in the union that really give you inspiration when you're struggling on what comes after graduation. There is a job shop for any part time jobs or summer placements you may want to consider as well.
University halls
What do you think about the safety, condition, location and cost of your accommodation?
The newest halls in UoR are so immaculate and up-to-date as they have been built in the last 1-4 years! Feels like a hotel, honestly! Everyone who visited me from other universities couldn't believe the standard of accommodation I was living in! There are a range of cheaper halls to live in which are hard to fault regardless of the fact they are older. My only qualm with halls is that it's so expensive. Once I moved into a house off campus I was saving so much cash!