Semester 1 flew by, right? So before things get too busy with Semester 2, I’ve put together my top tips for making the most of Uni this year and also (as a local student) everything city and just beyond have to offer!
Study at all the study spots
There are multiple study spots across campus, with the obvious being the Main Library, the Alliance Manchester Business School, and the Alan Gilbert Learning Commons. But why not take the initiative and explore the rest of campus by discovering different study spots? Make it a challenge you can complete over the course of your time here, and even document it for your future graduating self to preserve all of these memories!
Both the UOM Instagram and TikTok share videos made by students for study spots, or you can find other ideas on the study pages of the uni website.
Join a society
Our Student’s Union has so many societies where you can meet new friends while picking up a new or continuing an existing hobby! From sports, to comedy, to music, and birdwatching, there will be something for you. Loads of people try something new in semester 2 so don’t think you have to wait for the start of year. Take a look at everything on offer on the Students’ Union website.
Attend events at the Student’s Union
The Student’s Union isn’t just about societies – there’s trips and events all year round, so stay up to date! Attending day trips, concerts, and social gatherings is a great way to make new friends or simply have a good time.
Keep up to date by bookmarking the Students’ Union events page.
Food spots (yum :P)
Manchester has some amazing food spots – from the Curry Mile on Wilmslow Road, to cafes and food spots in the Northern Quarter and Deansgate, there’s something for everyone!
Some amazing Instagram pages are always sharing various food spots, new and old, so check them out: @halaldiningmcr, @eatmcr, and @eatinmcr.
Make the most of everything – and get an award!
The Stellify award, is exclusive to the university and demonstrates skills you learns through opportunities available at Uni. It includes volunteering, taking on leadership roles, and undertaking Ethical Grand Challenges. All of these can help you grow yourself while gaining experience, so try and get yours?
Check out the Stellify pages for more information and how to get started,
Day trips from Manchester
There are so many gorgeous and must-see places just a short drive or train journey outside of Manchester, so why not venture outside the city? Personally, I’ve recently visited the gorgeous Formby beach close to Liverpool, but there are many other spots to visit.
There’s some amazing Instagram pages to follow such as: @manchester_new_girl and @getlostmcr – which offer guides and information on all the best close-by spots to be explored.
Explore the city
Although you easily can, you don’t have to venture far – there’s something for everyone right here in the city. Take advantage of Manchester’s bus and tram systems, or walk through the city -there is so much to see and do in Manchester, so make the most of your time!
You could travel to Salford Quays, watch a show at the Manchester Opera House/Place Theatre, visit HOME Manchester, tour Manchester’s various parks, visit the Trafford Centre, John Ryland’s Library, and visit the city’s various art galleries and museums. There is plenty to do, including annual events like Christmas markets, marathons, and summer and winter festivals and activities. Visit Manchester is a great site to find hidden gems or the latest events.
Relax
Finally, enjoy your time here. University life involves a variety of experiences that lead to growth and many memories! So, prioritise your self-care in terms of physical and mental health, or do simple activities that bring you joy. Live in the moment because time passes faster than you realise.
Make the most of your experiences, even if you don’t get to accomplish everything on this list. This is simply a guide for inspiration!
Enjoy Manchester and all it has to offer!
