First days at Ulster University, Coleraine

I am now halfway through my first semester at Ulster University. The first week was definitely the hardest just because of the size of the campus and finding my way to Coleraine. I am staying in Belfast city whilst the University itself is in Coleraine. So, for me this is an hour’s train in the mornings, but I have really learned to enjoy it due to the beautiful landscapes we pass through the countryside’s of Belfast. When I first made my way into the campus, I was greeted by multiple members of staff who directed me to our presentation with the other international students. We then had a chance to sit and meet these students from all around the world. The support staff really lived up to their name and were there to guide us and help with anything we needed. Some of the facilities on the campus includes a nature walk around the college taking you on a scenic route around the skirts of the university., another facility is the 24hr library that is filled with any materials we need for our studies. I have so far spent a lot of time in the library, whether it be arriving early or between lectures.

I had a great time throughout the induction week despite the nerves. So, we had some presentations about the academic side of what we would need to know about their style of assignments, thankfully I found this to be really similar to the assignments in SETU. Then we took part of several quizzes with the other international students about Northern Ireland's history or fun facts and trivia. Then we were brought to the main hall of the campus were there was several tables placed around the hall that were all different information desks and sign-up spots. At nearly every table that we went to we were given free things such as pens, notebooks, water bottles, bags, key rings, fidget spinners and more. It was in here where we were put in touch with people that could give student support finically or mentally. Live music was playing on the stage at the top of the hall whilst free pizza was on offer with vouchers and coupons. On the other side of the hall there was different tables for different sports along with sign up sheets, these included football teams, basketball teams and surfing for example.

All the best for now, Evan