By Alicia Vida
I’ve always valued the importance of getting to know other cultures and of learning new languages. That’s why I decided to pursue a degree in International Business Management at Lancaster University, a double degree four-year integrated program, where you spend two years in Lancaster and two overseas.
So far, I’ve spent my first two years at Lancaster, and will be spending my last two years at ICADE in Madrid. However, Lancaster also offers students the chance to finish their last two years in other universities, such as Northeastern University in Boston in the United States, UDLAP in Puebla, Mexico, and CESEM in Reims, France. And despite only being established in 1964, Lancaster University is currently ranked as one of the top 20 universities in the UK (ranked 131st in the most recent QS World University Rankings®).
But looking beyond rankings and international exchanges, what else does Lancaster have to offer? Read on to find out why I’d highly recommend studying here…
It has excellent accommodation options
Lancaster students are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation options. On campus, there are eight undergraduate colleges to choose from: Bowland, Lonsdale, Furness, The County College, Fylde, Cartmel, Pendle College, Grizdale College and Graduate College. Each of them offers numerous options to satisfy every student’s needs, such the possibility for students to be catered, common rooms with ping pong and pool tables, bars, chill areas and laundry facilities. Standard rooms with a washbasin, en-suite bathrooms, superior en-suites, townhouses, studios…whatever you’re after, Lancaster University offers it.
On the other hand, if you prefer to live in town, the city center also has a good supply of accommodation. There are plenty of companies that help students to find accommodation, Student Housing Lancaster and Yellow Door Lets being just two, with options such as City Block available right in the center of town.
There are 200 societies to choose from
Lancaster has a fantastic selection of societies on offer, covering a huge range of activities, hobbies and causes – meaning there’s bound to be at least one that suits you. Joining a society allows you to meet people with the same interests, and gives you the opportunity to experience something completely new. It also means you can increase your academic network and meet friends from outside both your accommodation and your course. Throughout the year there will be loads of events o put in your calendar, such as rehearsals and performances, campaigns, competitions, cooking events, guest speakers, and of course the socials, in which you can show off your fancy dress skills for themed nights out on the town. And in the unlikely event that you can’t find a society to match your interests, you could always start your own!
Lancaster still battles York in the ‘Roses’
It’s not quite the Wars of the Roses, but every year the hugely competitive Roses tournament pits the University of York and Lancaster together with competitions across a wide range of sports and an unbeatable atmosphere. The Roses is organized by LUMS (Lancaster University Student Union) and YUSU (York University Student Union), and is often described as the largest inter-university sports tournament in Europe! The two institutions take it in turns to host, and it is definitely a great weekend for spectators and supporters, with also a range of cultural events taking place to make the event even more special.
And if you’re interested in keeping fit during your spare time, you’ll be pleased to hear that the university opened the new, state-of-the-art Sports Centre in 2011, featuring the very latest in top of the range sport facilities and open seven days a week, 360 days a year. And the university’s students' association possesses more than 35 sports clubs, including American football, rugby and hockey - with all of them regularly competing against other institutions across the country.
Lancaster is famous for its nightlife
Photo credit: Adam Bruderer (Flickr)
Lancaster is incredibly international, home to almost 3,000 international students from all around the world, and boats a wide selection of bars and night clubs where students can go out during the weekend or even during the week. Wednesdays in Sugarhouse, a nightclub managed by students, are particularly famous! They have extensive discounts and even organize free buses from the club to the university, helping to ensure that your night out doesn’t break your budget. Another notable night club is Dalton Rooms, which also organizes Latin Parties.
You can get your caffeine fix at the city’s trendy coffee shops...
If there’s one thing students need, it’s coffee. In Lancaster, you’ll find endless options to satisfy your caffeine craving. As well as the obligatory chain coffee shops, there are loads of trendy local options where you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and an artisan flat white or whatever your heart desires. The Music Room for example is an incredibly popular choice with students.
...And satisfy your taste buds
Italian, American, Asian, Mexican…you’ll find every cuisine you can imagine in Lancaster. And the best part…home delivery! Or, if you’re looking for a more luxurious restaurant, the canal has a number you can choose from. The White Cross and Water Witch are probably the most famous, where they also put on live music for you to enjoy while you eat.
It’s ideally located for day trips
Lancaster is located in the northwest of England, and for many students, this may be their best opportunity to travel and experience new cultures. Take advantage of this opportunity and be sure to visit other cities such as Liverpool or Manchester, only one hour away by train. Alternatively, you could visit London or Edinburgh, two vibrant cosmopolitan capital cities with endless attractions and experiences. The Lake District is also another must-see, especially for nature lovers. Go on endless hikes to enjoy the beautiful scenery, or visit during the summer months and you can rent a boat and swim in the lakes without freezing to death.
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Overall, I think Lancaster University is the perfect place for students to get a world class education, as well as being able to meet people from different nationalities and explore other cultures. Studying abroad has many benefits, and is one of the most enriching experiences you can ever commit to. But most importantly, it’s a huge amount of fun!
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