Why I Love YSJ
I first heard about York St John university through a YouTube advert, whatever video I was watching hasn’t stood out in my mind, but what has is the tagline “career support for life”. At the time, that really spoke to me as I had no idea what to do after my A levels. I knew I wanted to go to university, but which one to go to and what course to study was such a huge question. After looking into YSJ and seeing that they offered two of my favourite subjects, English Literature and History, I went on an open day to see the campus, facilities and meet the professors. At the open day, I gathered more information about what I’d get to study, where I’d live and what life in York was like – I never looked back! Overall, what really drew me to apply was the passion the lecturers held for their subjects, every question was met with enthusiasm and advice, and I felt fully prepared and knew what to expect on my prospective course.
I love my course, and I can confidently say it’s the right course for me especially thanks to all the support I can access as a student here at YSJ. Academic Tutors are always available to discuss ideas for essays and projects, discuss feedback and help to look for placements or offer inter university connections. There are opportunities to work with library staff for accessing research and gaining their unique perspectives. I have had so many opportunities presented to me through choosing YSJ. To name just a few, YSJ offers the York International Shakespeare Festival, Beyond the Walls creative writing anthology and Terra Two Science-Fiction blog. As well as this, most modules have offered chances to get involved with work experience and site visits both in and out of the university.
As a community, York St John has such a unique feel to it and the close-knit feel radiates though every part of student life. The campus is the perfect size to act as a social and academic hub, each site such as the Library, The Creative Centre and Archie’s Bar & Lounge has spaces to work and socialise, regularly offering events to meet new people! Accessing careers support is easy to do, Launchpad (the careers hub), Kickstart (the enterprise hub) and Handshake (the app for university careers) means that interest in abroad study, volunteering, work experience and graduate jobs are just a click away.
The community feel at York St John University has made an incredibly positive impact on my time at university. It is easy to feel encouraged and confident to meet new people and try new things. As YSJ offers over 50 sports clubs and societies, I was excited to jump straight into the taster sessions and freshers events in my first year. Through these societies, I have met so many amazing people. My badminton training sessions and Christian Union meetings each week are the highlight of my week as you can always guarantee a great time!
As a city, York is a perfect place to be a student. York St John is right in the heart of York, giving you immediate access to all the amenities of history and culture offered. There is a beautiful view of York Minster everywhere on campus which serves as a great reminder of where you graduate! York is a great city for all types of students, the train station is only a 20-minute walk away from campus and the University owned sports park is 15 minutes away from the main accommodation sites, not to mention essential sites like supermarkets, GP practice and Hospital are practically on the doorstep.
Studying at YSJ has been an amazing time. I’ve grown personally, professionally and academically throughout my time here and took part in things I never could’ve imagined myself doing and there’s always more to come!
If you’re looking for a university that will challenge you, support you and help you grow consider YSJ! Book a campus tour or speak to a Student Ambassador before the 29th January to know more about life at YSJ and why we love it!
