Exams, dating and clubbing: A final year’s guide to making the most of uni in Leeds

As an already nostalgic Leeds student coming towards the end of a four year degree, I felt it was time to compile everything I wish I knew as my wide-eyed and bushy-tailed fresher-self. Although your three, four or even five year degree might sound like an insanely long period of time it’ll fly by before you know it.

So, while you’ve probably been given uni advice many times, from parents or graduates who can’t seem to let go of their uni experience, here’s all the Leeds-specific uni advice you’ll ever need, conveniently listed in one place.

Flatmates

You can’t control who you live with in your first year accomodation so don’t feel bad if they’re not your people. At the same time it’s great to make the effort if you can as breaking out of our secondary school bubble is super important and, fortunately or unfortunately, you’ll be living with these people for the rest of first year.

If your flatmates are really not your people, see this as an opportunity to branch out. Join societies, chat to coursemates and try new social events because sometimes finding people with similar interests is the way to go. The harsh reality is that it’ll be a bit harder in second year as sometimes people get comfortable in their established groups so really do make the most of first year.

If you’re still in the process of choosing accomodation it’s helpful to know each accom’s stereotype as, while they’re not all true, they’re often a good indication of what you can expect.

Housemates

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If you’re one of the victims of the infamous myth that Hyde Park houses will miraculously disappear the second it turns October 1st, please, please, please know that you do not need to rush into signing that contract. There will be houses available, even months later, and much better to have a bad house and good housemates than bad housemates and a good house. I will die on this hill.

While some people do just get lucky, you’ll often find that the people with the happiest house took time and effort to find their housemates so don’t hold back on socialising, even when it seems terrifying. It could be one of the best decisions you make – next thing you know you’ll be laughing with your future bridesmaid about how you were too scared to talk to her outside Old Bar, imagining what life would’ve been like if you never did.

Studying

With all the excitement of uni life, many students tend to forget about actual university. In first year especially, uni will probably feel like a lower priority. Nevertheless, it’s good to have a bit of structure, even in terms of where you’re spending your day. If your chilled time is sitting in the flat with your mates then spend your time studying at Brotherton (or alternative library of choice) just to get out of the flat.

Also, be aware that, while you might have been told that first year grades don’t count, they play a part in your applications for placement years or study abroad so don’t get too lazy!

For most people second year feels like a huge step up from first year so don’t be afraid if that’s how you feel. The whole year in itself can be a lot – moving out of the student accom bubble and into Hyde Park, possibly with a new group of people. Nevertheless, it’s also exciting and you’ll still have lots of support around you so don’t hesitate to reach out to professors or friends for help.

Going out

How much people like to go out is totally subjective. For some it’s once a month and for others it’s every single night (absolute soldiers). If you’re someone who loves a good club night, make the most of this in first year and even a bit in second year. Once final year hits, you’ll miss the blissful yet harrowing experience of waking up on a Thursday morning not knowing where you are.

Although everyone has a favourite club night make sure to try different venues and music because these are the years to expand your music taste. Also, you’ll want to branch out before certain places disappear (RIP Pryzm and Old Red Bus Station).

Staying in

Some of your best and most memorable nights will end up being the ones where you stay up in the kitchen until 5am chatting absolute nonsense with your housemates. As great as clubbing is, don’t forget to enjoy the sober side of Leeds because, even though this may come as a shock, it definitely exists.

Some fun indoor activities include board game nights, film nights and cooking as a house. There’s always that one housemate who should stay far away from cooking utensils though so maybe the latter is not for everyone.

Societies

Whether you were a keep-to-yourself type or extra-curricular weapon in school, societies are for everyone. At uni there is an unbelievable range of societies you can join and the sky is absolutely the limit.

My advice would be to not be put off by the intimidating nature of some. Sports and music societies have places for people with a range of capabilities so don’t fret if you’re a beginner – try something new.

Food

The food scene in Leeds is incredibly diverse so, as someone who came from a tiny village, I would urge you to make the most of it. There’s always an excuse to break away from your empty students cupboards whether that’s for a hungover brunch or a hearty meal.

Some personal highlights have included Dough Boys pizza at Belgrave, brunch at Moose Coffee and dinner at Indian Tiffin Room.

And for more fancy meals, when the parents come to visit with their wallets; Ivy Asia, Riva Blu and Browns.

A year out

Unfortunately, I am that insufferable person who will not shut up about their year abroad. While it’s not for everyone, a year out, gaining valuable work or ‘cultural’ experience, can really help you grow in a different environment and it’s a great way to force yourself out of that Leeds comfort bubble.

You may also find that returning to Leeds after a year away will give you a new-found appreciation for the city as you come back with a fresh perspective. Apart from feeling like an OAP as a fourth year student, an extra year in Leeds is not so bad.

Dating

Although I’m perhaps not the best person to comment on the subject, I’ve learnt a lot from both my friends’ and my own experiences during my time in Leeds. From someone who has friends who are still with their high school sweethearts and some who spent their years (peacefully) single, I can confidently say there is no ‘right’ way to spend your time at Leeds.

Leeds has such a diverse and incredible range of people so I urge you not to hold back from getting out there for whatever reason that might be but, at the same time, if the love of your life isn’t in Hyde Park (shock), who cares?!

One of the best bits of dating advice I’ve ever received was that every bad date is a great story and someone’s got to provide the entertainment. Having said that, a moment of silence for everyone who’s had to sit through a one night stand’s camera roll presentation or, worse, their podcast.

Ultimately, if you’re walking away from Leeds with a handful of funny stories, a couple regrets and friends for life then you’ve definitely won.

It’s a cliché that you’ve definitely heard too many times but you’ll never get these years back. So don’t stress too much, don’t take the small moments forgranted and whether you’re here for three years or six, spend these years in Leeds with people you love.