Anthropology and Language & Linguistics - MA (Hons)

University of Aberdeen

I really enjoy the lectures and the campus. There is quite a lot of assignments and sometimes it is hard to balance both university and social life.

The University is beautiful. The lecturers and my supervisors are amazing and supportive. The senior management is an absolute joke. Completely out of touch, even after all the bad press from the fiasco with modern languages last year - they still continue to refuse to be transparent, take accountability, or even publish the mandatory lessons learned papers to the wider university community.

The best aspect was the smooth transition, it was a well induced introduction from freshers week to week 1 of studies with tutors/teachers outlining the course and explaining basics about university life. Tours provided of the campus were informative and a great way to get to grips with the new surroundings. The core of Aberdeen university's campus is stunning architecturally and kept in great condition, it is safe to walk and well lit at night. The libraries are excellent facilities and a lovely place to study. I think what could be done better is more events early on at the start of the new term (especially for first years) for getting to know others in your subject domain. On campus., not out with the university in pubs, bars, etc. Also, a 'meet n greet ' or event where you can engage and talk to senior students who study what first years are enrolled in would be a great dynamic way to deepen understanding of what its like to study, tips and skills that will be needed etc. Furthermore, potential opportunities to connect us with post grad students/ people working in industries we could go onto after our studies would be hugely beneficial to create motivation and enhance our future career prospects.

I love how much support the University offers the students. The only thing I'd love to see more of are opportunities and events for older or mature students to take part in. There are a lot of groups and clubs to join but it feels like they're all geared toward the younger students.

I am very glad to be a UoA student! I often compare the services and the 'perks' I have access to and that my friends in other countries in Europe would never expect to receive from their university. It makes me feel priviledged. I have had a lecturer since year 2 who only spends their lessons talking, instead of giving us the chance to work and learn on the topic. Fortunately I do a lot of individual study and I am satisfied with my grade of knowledge, but no student deserves a a lecturer who is not able to do their job properly. My partner, who is also a student at UoA, but in a different school, has the same struggles. I also believe that the student rep training and support could have a boost. I am excited to see what's happening this year.