Five places to see on the York St John campus
York St John University is known for its community feel. So when we heard someone was completing their work experience with our directorate, we couldn’t resist talking to them about all things alumni! After nearly a week soaking up campus life, we asked them to tell us their top five places to see on campus so we could share it with our alumni, ready for Your YSJ Reunion in July!
The Peace Garden
This is a small garden behind the chapel. It has a Japanese theme and a fountain. It has a Japanese theme because a tree that had survived the Hiroshima attack had been planted there, but unfortunately that tree died. There are other trees such as the magnolia tree which helps create a nice atmosphere.
I think it is a peaceful area. It is a nice place to relax and enjoy your surroundings and there are benches where you can do this. There is a nice atmosphere and lots of shade which means it is cool.
The Quad
This is an area inside some of the buildings of the University. The top rooms of the buildings surrounding it used to be dorm rooms. In the middle there is a grassy space which you can sit on and relax.
I think it is a very pretty place and it reminds me of Harry Potter. The way the ivy runs up the walls also makes it appear pretty as well as the stone buildings. Down one of the corridors leading to the quad there is also pictures of old students that once went to York St John’s which is also interesting to look at.
Old common room
This is an old common room where students would have spent their time. At the end of World War 1, the panelling was added. It is in the arts foyer near the old chapel and is a meeting room which isn’t often used.
I think that it is an interesting and historic space and it is quiet. It has nice views outside of the windows where you can see the city walls. It also has a lot of history since old students used to use it a s a common room and I think it is quite interesting.
Creative Centre
This building is fairly new and is made with a lot of wood. It has won awards for its design and it is quite a cool place. It has a nice view of the Minster which can be seen through its windows or on a balcony. There used to be student accommodation before it was knocked down and built and it is used for computer rooms and there is an auditorium.
I think the design of this building is interesting and cool. I like how there is different balconies and levels within the building as well as the shape of the building on the outside. It is also quite light inside which gives it a nice atmosphere.
Front of Lord Mayor’s Walk
This is the area at the front of the University on Lord Mayor’s Walk. It can be seen from the street and from the inside of the University. The front building is surrounded by grassy areas which you can sit on.
I think that it is very beautiful and it is an iconic view of the campus. This place also reminds me of Harry Potter and it is a nice space to sit on the grass and relax. I like the fact that it is quite beautiful and the plants surrounding it are also quite pretty. You can also see the city walls outside of the campus from here which is a historic part of York. This is also a pretty view.
There’s still time to book your ticket to Your YSJ Reunion! Book your place by 26 June 2023 – we can’t wait to welcome you back to campus!
With thanks to Naomi P for writing this blog for us.
