How I Found My Place at Uni (and My Favourite Spots in Southampton)!
Hey everyone!
Moving to university can be exciting but overwhelming. As an international student, I was stepping into a completely new world, a new city, new people, new everything! At first, campus was my comfort zone, but as the weeks went by, I realised that to truly feel at home, I had to explore beyond lecture halls and student accommodation. And that’s exactly what I did!
Here are the places I would recommend visiting if you are new to Southampton!
1. Portswood
At first, I stuck to campus, but I quickly realised that getting out of my bubble helped me feel more at home. Portswood became my favourite area—whether it was grabbing coffee, browsing books, or trying bubble tea! My tip if you’re feeling overwhelmed is to take a walk around Portswood. Find a cosy café, sit with a book, and just soak in the atmosphere!
2. Ocean Village
Whenever I felt stressed, I’d take a trip to Ocean Village. Watching the water or even just sitting at a café made me feel at peace. Sometimes, you just need a breather, a spot away where you can think, reset, and recharge. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a trip here. Bring headphones, put on your favourite playlist, and just take a moment for yourself.
3. Night Walks to Mayflower Park
Some of my best late-night conversations happened while walking to Mayflower Park with friends. Sitting by the water, talking about life, watching the lights made me realise how far I’d come from that nervous fresher who was scared she wouldn’t find her place. It takes time to feel at home. And one day, I was walking through the city and realised that this place is not just where I study, it’s home now!
4. Southampton Common
I used to think the Common was just a park, but it quickly became my go-to for study breaks, picnic days, and even impromptu photoshoots with friends. The fresh air, open space, and cute little pond make it the perfect place to unwind. It's also right next to the Highfield and Avenue Campus, making it very convenient to visit after lectures.
5. Westquay
Westquay became one of my favourite spots in Southampton. Beyond just being a massive shopping centre, it’s also a great place to hang out. I love wandering around the stores, but it’s the extra things that make Westquay stand out. The food options are fantastic, from KFC for a quick bite to Las Iguanas when I want something a little more special. And when I need to unwind, the Showcase Cinema offers a comfy movie night experience.
When I look back, I realise that these places aren’t just locations, they hold memories that turned Southampton into more than just a city I study in.
If you’re still settling in, don’t worry - explore, find your spots, and soon, this place will feel like home too!
I hope this helps!
Thank you,
Akshita
University of Southampton Student Rep
Moving to university can be exciting but overwhelming. As an international student, I was stepping into a completely new world, a new city, new people, new everything! At first, campus was my comfort zone, but as the weeks went by, I realised that to truly feel at home, I had to explore beyond lecture halls and student accommodation. And that’s exactly what I did!
Here are the places I would recommend visiting if you are new to Southampton!
1. Portswood
At first, I stuck to campus, but I quickly realised that getting out of my bubble helped me feel more at home. Portswood became my favourite area—whether it was grabbing coffee, browsing books, or trying bubble tea! My tip if you’re feeling overwhelmed is to take a walk around Portswood. Find a cosy café, sit with a book, and just soak in the atmosphere!
2. Ocean Village
Whenever I felt stressed, I’d take a trip to Ocean Village. Watching the water or even just sitting at a café made me feel at peace. Sometimes, you just need a breather, a spot away where you can think, reset, and recharge. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a trip here. Bring headphones, put on your favourite playlist, and just take a moment for yourself.
3. Night Walks to Mayflower Park
Some of my best late-night conversations happened while walking to Mayflower Park with friends. Sitting by the water, talking about life, watching the lights made me realise how far I’d come from that nervous fresher who was scared she wouldn’t find her place. It takes time to feel at home. And one day, I was walking through the city and realised that this place is not just where I study, it’s home now!
4. Southampton Common
I used to think the Common was just a park, but it quickly became my go-to for study breaks, picnic days, and even impromptu photoshoots with friends. The fresh air, open space, and cute little pond make it the perfect place to unwind. It's also right next to the Highfield and Avenue Campus, making it very convenient to visit after lectures.
5. Westquay
Westquay became one of my favourite spots in Southampton. Beyond just being a massive shopping centre, it’s also a great place to hang out. I love wandering around the stores, but it’s the extra things that make Westquay stand out. The food options are fantastic, from KFC for a quick bite to Las Iguanas when I want something a little more special. And when I need to unwind, the Showcase Cinema offers a comfy movie night experience.
When I look back, I realise that these places aren’t just locations, they hold memories that turned Southampton into more than just a city I study in.
If you’re still settling in, don’t worry - explore, find your spots, and soon, this place will feel like home too!
I hope this helps!
Thank you,
Akshita
University of Southampton Student Rep
(edited 3 months ago)
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