Reading University has been a pleasure to study at. Between the beautiful campus and the welcoming community, I have nothing but positive experiences with it on a daily basis. The Library is well stocked and large enough that finding a place to sit and study is always a possibility while also being open to students whenever they need it, catering to my often chaotic working schedule. The campus is not in the centre of town but it is close enough that should I need to get anything it is only a short walk away.

The course has everything I could ask for however in the first year I felt that the modules available to me were rather limited (though enjoyable). The teaching styles of the various lecturers varies however I have found each of them engaging in their own ways.

Windsor halls were a strange experience. While the rooms themselves were more than enjoyable to live in the facilities that came with them were lacklustre. Firstly the halls come with a necessary food plan making the hall's kitchens sorely lacking. While this is understandable it has the unintended consequence of removing the main social area for residents of the halls to socialise. As such, staying in contact with people you live within close proximity to requires active effort rather than passing interest. Also, as a result of the almost extortionate meal plans Windsor halls are rather expensive when compared to their counterparts.

I had the opportunity to take a study year abroad to Germany through Reading and had one of the best life experiences I could have asked for. The teaching and tutors in my course are very hands on and try to give the best help. Tutors support the students academically and personally if needed. In archaeology specifically there is a very hands on approach to making sure the students are set up with work experience and career help. Would like a better range of options from the student Union in events and to meet people.

During covid all teaching was online through zoom or Microsoft teams. This was difficult at times but worked well for the situation. Now I do the majority of my lectures in person with lecture and seminar style classes alternating. For some classes in archaeology I have my classes in the labs and do hands on practical work which reading has a lot of facilities for. The tutors take on small groups in my course in first year which remains the same throughout and my academic tutor is always willing to have a meeting either in person or online which is very helpful academically and personally when I have any problems.

Kendrick halls was ridiculously expensive, but the facilities are very good and felt safe. The wifi was great very useful for university work. Cleaners came often.