To set you off on your new adventure at the University, we asked our alumni what advice they would give to new students beginning their Bangor journey. And, apart from most of them wistfully saying how they wished they were about to do it all over again, here are some of the gems of advice our alumni offered:
Welcome tips from Bangor graduates
“Buy a pair of comfortable boots or shoes, you’ll be walking up hill a lot! Also, set a budget to spend each month or you’ll be eating more pasta than you want to!” Frankie O’Dowd (Criminology, 2002)
“Buy a waterproof coat. Not a flimsy pac-a-mac, a proper waterproof that covers your bum and the tops of your thighs. Because sitting through lectures absolutely sopping wet is not ideal!” Amy Slater-Bell (Medieval and Early Modern History, 2007)
“Go to the extra-curricular activities and seminars in your department” Amanda Robinson (Heritage, Archaeology and History, 2006)
Read more about your academic school here
“Don’t be scared to join societies. There’s something for everyone and you may find something new you like, and you’ll make friends whilst doing so.” Liam Simmons (French and Spanish, 2019)
You can find out more about clubs and societies here
"The Menai straits, Snowdonia etc are a majesty of beauty. Trust me, you’ll miss seeing them in the future. Treasure your chance to be amongst them.” Marty Drury (English with Theatre Studies, 2003)
“Honestly... Take full advantage of any free Welsh language courses on offer. after graduation you may end up working in Wales and the ability to speak Welsh is a HUGE advantage.” Sam Edwards
Read more about the bilingual community at Bangor here
“Always allow extra, extra time in order to get to your lecture on time. Even if it’s only 10 minutes from room to hall, allow 30 minutes ‘cos if you make friends (and you will), you’ll invariably meet some of them on the way. Chat for a few minutes, resume your journey, meet someone else, chat for a few minutes and before you realise it, that 10 minute journey has become 25 minutes and no lecturer likes anyone coming in late!” John Frederick Moore (French, 1984)
“If you are out of your depth with your course work, reach out and ask for help. Societies and Clubs are a fantastic diversion but don’t use them to hide from your course work.” Sarah Lloyd
“Keep an open mind and be kind to everyone” Elizabeth Bearman (Applied Linguistics, 1983)
“Make sure you join societies/clubs, its where a lot of your personal development and employability skills happen.” Joe Butler (Bangor student then staff, 2005-2017)
Find out more about skills and employability here
“Invest in a wok and learn how to cook stir fry. In your friendship group / halls etc take it in turns to cook for each other if people are willing (it’s cheaper than everyone cooking individually!)” Aljo Gibbs Jones (Theology, 2003)
The University’s Development and Alumni Relations team, work to stay connected with our former students after graduation.
You’ll hear from us from time to time during your studies as we involve alumni of the University in your student experience through career talks, subject-specific lectures and events. Along the way, we’ll help you make some great connections within our alumni network to give you a boost after gaining your degree.
We’re sure you’re excited to be starting on this new adventure. Bangor University will shape you -you’ll learn a lot about yourself and make friends for life. Make the most of every day!
Find out more about the Development and Alumni Relations team here.