Katy RobertsI chose to study at York University firstly because it is one of the best universities in the UK and, being from Lancashire, it was far enough, but not too far from home. The University itself is situated close enough to the city centre to be in perfect walking distance, yet retains a close knit, campus feel.
There are so many great things about being a student in York, I love it here. The centre is inundated with busy pubs and bars, with York University student favourites including The Lowther Pub, situated at the riverside, Vodka Revolution; recently refurbished into an enormous, uber trendy vodka and cocktail bar and Club Salvation, where York Uni students flock on a Tuesday night. Yet whilst I absolutely recommend sampling the official University student nights; there are many more places to enjoy a student friendly tipple. Frequent as many as you can before deciding on your best-loved haunts.
As well places to drink, York boasts a great variety of restaurants and cafes, and while students obviously can’t afford to eat out every week, it’s a great alternative to staying in, or going for drinks. Indians are particularly popular, check out Mumbai Lounge on Fossgate for something different, in a relaxed cool environment; the Garden of India, just outside the walls, for yummy takeaways and Akbars, a common student favourite for the gigantic naan breads. As I said though, you’ll be spoilt for choice for good grub.
York is also great for shopping. There will be people who will try to persuade you that Leeds is better, which is, in my opinion – utter rubbish! We have all the best highstreet stores including a relatively large Topshop, H&M, Jack Wills and Ark coupled with one-off vintage and designer shops. I adore Purple Haze, a fabulous vintage shop with student friendly price tags and Sarah Coggles always stocks great menswear, albeit a touch more on the expensive side.
Due to the abundance of shops, restaurants and bars, it’s relatively easy to find a job to help fund nights out and clothes addictions. I’ve worked at a city centre pub and at York racecourse – where they’re always looking for staff. Most places will hire students and therefore are likely to be flexible when it comes to working hours.
Theres things to do throughout the year, from visiting the annual outdoor Ice Rink at the designer outlet when Winter draws nearer to popping along to the Vintage Fair on the Saturday of York Universities Fresher’s week. Keep a look out for gigs, shows and theatre, you’ll not be disappointed with the range of events York has to offer. Also, ensure that you at least once a season walk around York’s Walls, they give you an unrivaled panorama of the city, an enchanting view of the Minster and a glimpse into York’s history.
