English and Creative Writing - MA (Hons)

University of Dundee

The library is probably my favourite place on campus because they have specific rooms for studying where there is silence so you can choose to either sit out in the main areas and study with your friends or have some peace and quiet to yourself so you can really focus. It's very well stocked too and for anything that isn't there, you can talk to a member of staff and get it ordered in for you. I think the only bad thing I can think of is the peer pressure to drink. I personally choose not to because I don't enjoy it but a lot of events seem to centre around getting tipsy and having a good time. One thing that has made this a bit better for me is the introduction of mocktails into one of the bars at the Union (if they have the ingredients in that is). I feel that while alcohol is very central to a lot of people's uni experience, there are still quite a few people to who it doesn't apply to like myself, maybe some for religious reasons, maybe some who are still underage. I just think alternatives should be promoted just as much.

I find the University and Union very welcoming and supportive. The way that the campus merges with the city centre lends it both community and energy. The range of societies is fantastic, helping to connect you with lots of people. The support offered, if you take it up, is great - with the university staff working hard to help students. In terms of improvements, I was sad to see the removal of many 10-credit courses as I greatly enjoyed and benefited from learning a wide range of ideas through them. I would also enjoy seeing mixer events within the various schools during first year, allowing everyone to meet each other and make friends with folks who may not be in their classes.

The quality of teaching has been very high and I feel supported in my academic interests. Teaching staff are always on hand to help if you have any questions or queries. Dundee is a friendly and welcoming city in general and it's not easy to be lonely here. If you go out and try new things, you'll quickly start to recognise some of the faces you walk past on the street. It won't feel like a city full of strangers for long! While it's relatively quick and easy to find friends though, you might find the Union is a bit lacking when it comes to student experience. More could, and should, be done to make it a comfortable and relaxing place for students. The only amusements we have are a couple of snooker tables which seem to be gradually disappearing. The Union could be doing with creating a new area for students to just chill and hang out in.

My overall experience at Dundee University has been overwhelmingly positive. The university encourages creativity and participation, has an incredible selection of exciting module options and a dedicated selection of staff and students striving to make it enjoyable and accommodating for all. Dundee as a city is growing in benefits thanks to investment into the area, despite still missing decent theatres and looking a tad grotty the city is bursting with a feverish excitement for the future that infects all residents.

I honestly never thought I would have this much fun, it surpassed all my expectations. I met a lot of nice people in Avery short amount of time and the lectures are as interesting as it can get.