Anthropology and International Development - BA (Hons)

University of Sussex

My experience at the university has been shaped by a mix of strong academic support and the challenges of navigating life as a postgraduate student with complex needs. The best aspects have been the academic environment, especially within Global Studies. The teaching quality, the openness of staff, and the intellectual culture have pushed me to think critically and develop my work in innovative ways. The Anthropology department in particular fosters curiosity, care and serious engagement with global issues. This has made my studies feel meaningful, motivating and deeply connected to the real world. Another strength is the sense of community. Initiatives such as the Neurodivergent Working Group and the various support teams across campus have helped create a space where students can feel understood and included. When the systems work, they genuinely make a difference. Those moments remind me why this university is a good place to study: there is a genuine attempt to adapt, listen and evolve. However, there are also areas that need improvement. Administrative processes can be slow or confusing, especially when students rely on timely support for disability, wellbeing or funding. Communication between departments sometimes feels fragmented, which can turn simple tasks into stressful experiences. More consistent coordination between academic teams, student support services and external partners would significantly improve the student journey. Physical accessibility and clarity around practical support could also be strengthened, especially for students managing chronic conditions or mobility difficulties. Small changes in organisation and communication would make a big difference to students who depend on these systems to fully participate in university life. Overall, this university has great potential and many strengths: committed staff, a supportive academic culture, and a diverse community of students who want to learn and contribute. With better coordination and clearer processes, the student experience could become not only good, but exceptional.

Best- The academic support, specifically regarding study skills and assignment understanding is extremely detailed through workshops and discussions. Also, I really enjoy the student life, campus is super vibrant and there is always something to get involved with- whether that's a society, an academic talk or an event. Worst- I have struggled with homesickness quite a lot at uni however, there is support available whether that is more casual like canine cuddles or something more formal like support from the student centre.

There could be more study areas, 2 main ones and apart from that there’s no other disignated areas to study can g we very busy

I like the location the university is in. I am a person that needs nature to relax, so I think that sussex is the right place for me. There are woods and fields near by and if you go into town there is a beach. Accommodations can be very old. I am in Norwich, in a flat with only girls which I am very thankful for. But I hear my girl friends in other gender mixed flats that they argue a lot due to messiness. This is just my opinion, but I feel that if there are more girls only flats, it would be a bit more easier to get along with each other.

Wow, Sussex Uni has been an inspiring and amazing experience in just the six weeks that I’ve been here. The lecturers on my course (International Development) have been phenomenal — an array of knowledge, experience, ideas, and concepts! My brain keeps working even when I’m not in class because I’m so inspired. The university has been very supportive and helped me settle into university life. As a mature student, I’ve felt incredibly welcomed by my classmates, even though I’m not living on campus. We’ve also been given study skills sessions, which I’ve found extremely useful after being out of education for some time. The lecturers are great — real people who are always available if you need them.