Meet the Access and Outreach team

"I was the first in my family to go to uni and I had no real sense of how it worked. I didn’t go to open days and knew nothing about all the opportunities available. I just wanted to move out, study more and get a good job. If I could go back and do it all again, I would join student societies, get involved with the students’ union and consider a year abroad."

"I had so many more questions than I had answers when I decided to go to university. All I knew is I wanted to keep learning and find a job which I loved and made a difference to people's lives. I would encourage you to have faith in yourself and ask questions and people will help you to achieve your goals."

"Do plenty of research and prepare lots of questions to ask university staff and students. After attending an open day, ask yourself ‘could I see myself at this university?’ and ‘would I be happy at this university?’. If you answer yes to both these questions then you’re onto a winner!"

"There is no correct way to experience your time at university and it is important to remember this when comparing yourself to your friends and course mates. It can be difficult to balance your course with society commitments, part-time work, placements and internships, socialising with friends, and other activities that you might want to pursue. Find out as much as you can about all of these opportunities and then make informed decisions about what is important to you, and what you want to prioritise, to get the most out of your university years and for your career or further study aspirations."

"University is such an exciting opportunity, but if like me, you'll be the first in your family to take on this journey, it can be a little overwhelming. My advice would be to trust in yourself and your ability. When it comes to choosing what course you would like to study and where to study, make sure you make the choice that you feel most comfortable with. We thrive when we do things we love - so keep that in mind!"

"As well as learning more about a subject you love, university is all about learning about yourself! Don’t be afraid to try things you never imagined doing, you might surprise yourself at what you are capable of achieving!"

"Really challenge yourself and try to push yourself out of your comfort zone. I decided to move 300 miles away to go to the University of Exeter, which was one of the things that helped me gain independence and confidence."

"At University, I found it really useful to think about what makes me happy, even if that means changing plans. I learnt to listen and trust myself - that’s all that really matters. Now I help students to do the same and get the right support, information and opportunities through their school or college"

"Don’t be scared to use all the resources on offer. As a neurodivergent student who had no help in my earlier studies, getting to university was a challenge for me. Realising all the support that was out there was a revelation; university can offer so much more flexibility and freedom to work out what’s best for you to make the most of your studies."

"It can feel scary trying something new on your own, but you miss out on 100% of the opportunities you don’t take. You don’t have to wait for others around you to give something a go before you can - if you try something and it’s not for you, chances are you’ve learnt something new about yourself which will help you find something that is for you. Don’t wait for someone else to push you - this is your experience to make the most of. Trust yourself."

"Try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Achieving academically is only one part of your life. Growing your support network, embracing new opportunities, and pursuing your other interests are all important too. If you can find enjoyment in, and beyond, learning then you can consider your time at university a huge success!"

"Try not to compare yourself to others, or feel that you must take a linear route to university if that is not right for you. This is your educational journey, no one else’s and so it needs to work for you. There are so many options out there for you to explore!"

"It is important to strike a good balance when studying for your exams, at university and beyond. Your health and wellbeing is paramount. Where possible, have study breaks, step outside and go for a walk or take time away from your screen. I also found that by joining clubs, it was a great way to meet other people and learn something new!"

"As a commuter student I made the most of the free time I had in between lectures to socialise with friends and use the study spaces on campus, this gave me a well-rounded university experience despite not living there!"

"University can offer you ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunities. I had the chance to conduct my orchestra, sleep in Durham Cathedral and even do academic research on Beyoncé! Follow your passions and don’t be afraid to get stuck in."

"When I first came to university, I was shy and hesitant to attend events alone. But in my final year, I pushed myself to join the York Ballroom and Latin Society (YBLS) - the best decision I ever made! I found amazing friends, a new passion, and grew so much in confidence. My top tip: don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Even if it’s scary at first, going alone can be the best way to meet new people and discover a hobby you love."

"University is incredibly exciting but it can also be scary! It’s important to remember that everyone you meet is in the same boat and just as worried/excited. Take advantage of every opportunity that’s thrown your way and try not to be afraid to do something different. I moved almost 300 miles away to York and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. University has so much to offer and if you take even half the chances you’re able to, you’ll have an amazing time!"

"Universities are big, diverse, confusing, messy, and wonderful, and because of that, you have complete freedom to be whoever you want to be. You will come out as a different version of yourself, so embrace it! It’s a fantastic opportunity to really define yourself, your interests, and your outlook on life. Take as many opportunities as you can and know that you are in the safest environment possible to find out who you are."

"Don’t be afraid to dream big! Be ambitious, set goals for yourself and you will be able to achieve more than you might at first think. This applies to academic accomplishments and future career goals, but also to much broader life skills, experiences and hobbies you’d like to learn. University is a unique time when you can try out many different societies, sports, volunteering projects and academic opportunities. Use this to your advantage by giving a whole range of activities a go, to discover what you enjoy and what dreams you want to set your mind on achieving."

"Reflecting back on my university experience, I think I only really “got” everything university could be in my third year. University can be so much more than studying and if you find things outside of your studies, that is where the richness of the experience can really blossom. I worked, undertook volunteering activities and joined two student committees in my final year and my experience was so much richer and fulfilling for making those decisions."