Introduction

Hi my name is Marina I’m 20 but I prefer to go by Mimi I’m a new applicant to university’s and I want to know how university’s are different to college’s because I didn’t like my previous college environment

Reply 1

UniofReading

Official Rep

Original post by Mimi152

Good afternoon @Mini152,

It's great to hear you are going to university.

Going to university is a big step, and it is very different to college or sixth form. One of the biggest differences at university is the independence the lectures provide. They do not set homework, and they won't always be there to answer your questions straight away. However, the lecturers will provide long-term coursework assignments, which are to be done over a period of weeks, and they will usually be available after lectures to answer questions and via email.

In terms of living, the Accommodation is very different to what you would experience at home. Students tend to have a room within a dorm, with individual bedrooms, but shared kitchines, so you will be preparing food with other students, and get to know the people within your dorm.

In general the university environment is a positive place, where students are helped to thrive, for example, there is a Careers Centre, Research facilities, The Library, a Reading Students' Union, SportsPark and lots of food venues.

So there is more freedom at university, and attending university is not just about studying, but also about the activities you can do and the people you will meet.

When I was applying to the university, I found it very helpful to attend an Open Day; however, for students who live far away or do not have access to an Open Day, there is a Virtual Tour, which prospective students can look at from their homes. I highly recommend you have a look at the Virtual Tour; it provides an insight to the campus.

I hope this information helps, and you have a great experience at university; if you have any questions, please let us know.

All the best,
Ella
BSc Ecology.