French, German, and Italian at Bangor University: A Journey of Language and Culture

Learn how studying French, German, and Italian at Bangor University provides academic excellence and invaluable real-world experience. Hear from a student who took full advantage of the course's unique year-abroad programme and small class sizes.

Why Study Languages at Bangor?

I chose to study at Bangor because of the opportunity to undertake a three-language degree with a year and a half abroad, spending a semester in each country. I also chose it because Bangor is very different from Birmingham. It's easy to get around, and you can readily meet people through clubs and societies, as it's a relatively small place. The course lasts four years, with the year and a half abroad commencing in the second half of the second semester.

Small Class Sizes, Personalised Learning

A key advantage of the course is the small class sizes in Bangor for languages. This creates the ideal environment to develop strong language skills, as lecturers can address your individual needs and provide resources and guidance for improvement.

Immersive Experiences Abroad: France, Italy, and Germany

I spent my first semester in Lille, France. Although it was challenging initially, my French reading and writing skills improved significantly, and I made lasting friendships. In my second year, I went to Italy to the University of Padua (Melania), one of the oldest universities in Europe. This was a fantastic experience, with excellent support for international students. The university understood the challenges of arriving in a new country and organised events for international students to socialise and make friends. For my final placement, I went to Leipzig in Germany, a beautiful university where I thoroughly enjoyed my studies.

Building a Language Community

I'm the president of the Languages Society at Bangor, which has been a great way to connect with other students and get to know people from all years of my course. It's a wonderful opportunity to socialise and engage with fellow language enthusiasts outside the academic setting.

Future Aspirations

I plan to take a year off to work in Birmingham before pursuing a master's degree in Italian, hoping to eventually earn a PhD.

English Literature and Creative Writing Course at Bangor University

Why I Chose Bangor University

I knew I wanted to study by the sea, so I visited several coastal universities. But as soon as I arrived in Bangor, I felt at home. The town has a unique atmosphere—small and welcoming, yet with plenty to offer.

Bangor isn’t a traditional campus university, but it has the perfect balance between a campus feel and a city setting. Wandering around, I felt comfortable right away, and that sense of belonging made my decision easy.

Course Structure and Module Choices

As a joint honours student in English Literature and Creative Writing, I had the opportunity to study a broad range of topics. The English Literature modules covered everything from medieval texts to contemporary literature—including modern works like Harry Potter.

The Creative Writing modules were equally varied. We studied short films, poetry, and short fiction throughout the year. The course introduced me to different writing styles, genres, and techniques, helping me develop my creativity and expand my influences.

Living in Halls

Choosing to live in halls of residence was one of the best decisions I made. I stayed in Ffriddoedd Village and was lucky to have a well-balanced flat where we all became great friends.

Our flat was a social hub—we always had people over, and the friendships I formed in first-year halls have lasted throughout my time at university.

Extracurricular Activities

Dance Society

I joined the Dance Society, which was an amazing experience. We had weekly lessons, learned routines, and performed in a big showcase at the end of the year. It was a fun way to stay active, meet new people, and even raise money for the society.

Exploring North Wales

Beyond university life, I love exploring the beautiful landscapes of North Wales. There are so many places to visit—mountains, beaches, castles, and hiking trails. It’s a perfect location for students who enjoy the outdoors.

Student Support Services

Bangor University offers excellent student support, including counselling services. I signed up for support sessions when I felt overwhelmed, and they were incredibly helpful. The process is easy—you just call, book a session, and have a 30-minute chat with someone who listens without judgment.

It’s reassuring to know that help is always available if you’re struggling with stress or personal challenges.

Career Aspirations

I hope to work in publishing, particularly in book-to-film adaptation or scriptwriting. I’ve always been fascinated by the way novels are translated into films, and I’d love to be involved in that process.

My next steps include looking for apprenticeships and work experience in publishing houses, ideally in London, where many of the major publishers are based. My ultimate goal? To write something in the style of Bridget Jones!

BA Professional Writing and Film Course at Bangor University

Why I Chose Bangor University

I chose Bangor University without attending an open day, relying instead on online research. The beautiful natural surroundings, including Eryri National Park, were a significant factor in my decision, as I love hiking and the outdoors. Bangor also offers affordable tuition fees and generous scholarships, particularly for international students, which made it a practical choice for me.

Course Structure and Learning Experience

The BA Professional Writing and Film course at Bangor University provides an in-depth exploration of the film industry beyond mainstream cinema. We study the history and development of film, analysing how the industry has evolved. The course covers behind-the-scenes aspects of filmmaking, which I had not anticipated but have found fascinating and highly educational.

Opportunities for Film Students

Bangor University offers a range of extracurricular opportunities for film students. The Film Society allows students to gain hands-on experience in filmmaking, including directing, camera work, and behind-the-scenes roles. For those more interested in writing, there are numerous screenplay competitions, providing a platform to develop creative skills and industry experience.

Life in Bangor

Bangor is a fantastic place to study, with plenty to explore. The Roman Forts provide a great picnic spot, while Eryri National Park offers incredible hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Whether by car or public transport, students can easily access many beautiful locations outside of the city.

Student Life and Balance

Although my course involves a lot of film studies, I also enjoy watching films recreationally, reading books, and pursuing other hobbies. The course structure allows for a good balance between academic work and free time, ensuring that students can maintain a well-rounded lifestyle.

International Community and Societies

Bangor has a large and welcoming international student community. There are societies based on different nationalities, such as the Brunei and Malaysian Societies, which provide a sense of home for international students. These societies are inclusive, offering opportunities to meet new people, share meals, and learn about different cultures.

Career Aspirations

I hope to enter the publishing industry, particularly in fictional novels. Studying Professional Writing at Bangor University has provided me with valuable insights and work experience opportunities, helping me refine my career goals. The course has given me the confidence and skills to pursue my aspirations in publishing and creative writing.