Guides
Looking for more information? Check out our series of guidebooks and webinars for more information:
University Viewbook (Study Guide)
How to Choose the Best UK University for Your Degree
Written by Nadia - 01/08/2023
"How do I choose the best UK university for my degree?" Choosing a university to study at is a daunting task. It’s where you’ll be living and learning for the next 3-4 years. So, first and foremost, you want to make sure it’s somewhere you like! This task becomes even more difficult when you’re studying abroad. Most students don’t get to actually see the university they’ve chosen until they arrive to study. While your comfort at university is important, you also want to go somewhere where you can get the best education for your chosen major! Below I’ve put together some tips for finding the best university for your degree
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Rankings
We try not to rely on rankings too much. They don’t always tell the full story of the student experience at a university. However, they’re useful for determining top ranking subjects at different universities! We prefer to use The Complete University Guide, as they have a nice breakdown of universities by subject ranking. For example, you’ll see on their charts that one university is rated Number 1 in the UK for a specific subject such as Forestry and Agriculture, but 34th overall in the UK. This is a great overall ranking, but it is the subject ranking you want to pay close attention to. You’ll get the best education and opportunities for your major in Forestry and Agriculture there.
Image: View from a classroom at Edinburgh Napier, top ranked for Events and Tourism, and Publishing and Media
Faculty Expertise
Definitely check out the faculty for your program to see if the uni is the best UK university for your degree! See what the professors and staff studied, what they research, and what they teach. If you’re studying a broader subject like History, but have a specific interest in something like the History of Women Writers in the 19th Century, it’s great to have a professor on staff to go to, to further your interest in the subject! Being taught by faculty at the height of your field is great for your education and for future reference letters!
Image: Academic staff are experts in their field and many are still actively working in their field in addition to teaching
Research at the University
See what kind of research the university is doing that you could be a part of! Research specializations that align with your subject interest are a great opportunity to get involved and gain additional research experience experience before graduation. Browse university websites or their webpages here to get an idea of their different research focuses
Image: Archaeological research at the University of Leicester
University Facilities
Also look at what the university has in terms of facilities for your degree, especially if you’re studying something practice based. If you’re interested in Fine Art for example, find out if the university you’ve chosen has a set up for your chosen medium and access to the materials and tools you need to succeed. For this, an arts based school would be a great choice! They have campus buildings dedicated to every major they have, with top of the line equipment to help you succeed
Image: Printing presses at Falmouth University
Extracurricular Opportunities
You won't spend all of your time in the classroom! It’s important to see what opportunities outside of lectures the university presents to help you succeed after your studies. For example: if you’re studying Law, look for a university that has a Law Society or Mock Trial team, so you can get involved in things you’re already passionate about. Your program may offer opportunities within the structure of the course as well. If you’re studying International Relations, studying abroad could be a great idea! My degree took us on tons of relevant field trips; I studied Publishing and we visited a printer, and went to London Book Fair to learn more about all aspects of the industry we were hoping to join.
Image: Seminar at London Book Fair
Alumni Testimony
Finally, don’t forget to read testimony from students who have studied the course, or are currently on the course! The universities usually make these available on their websites, and tons of UK unis also have Unibuddy, which allows you to chat with current university students, sorted by degree. Ask them their honest opinion, what things they considered when choosing the school, and what they learn about! They’re a great resource for learning about the student experience as a whole, and for your specific subject.
Choosing a degree can be difficult, and choosing a university to study at can be even more difficult! These are just some of the things to consider to help you pick the right UK university to study at. If all else fails, ask your advisor for their opinion on the best schools for your degree. Ultimately, the choice is yours, but we’re here to help!
We are here to help! If you’re not sure where to start your research, ask your Across the Pond advisor!
If you are new to Across the Pond and don’t have an advisor yet, you can enquire here.
Brittany’s Guide to Same-Day Theatre in London
Written by Brittany - 29/06/2021
I planned many of my trips to the theatre in advance. That being said, most of the time I was just looking for something to do when I had a free day from assignments or classes. When I think back to my time in London, some of my favourite memories involve going to same-day theatre.
If you love going to the theatre as much as I do, here are some of my tips for scoring tickets to some of the hottest shows in London!|
BE FLEXIBLE
One of my favourite same-day theatre trips was seeing Matthew Perry in The End of Longing. We ended up sitting third row from the stage!
If you are flexible with days of the week, show times, or where you sit, you are already a great candidate for same-day theatre experiences.
When theatres do not sell all of the tickets for a day’s showing, often these seats will go on sale for a discounted price in an attempt to fill up the audience. If you find that you have a free afternoon, choose a show you would like to see and ask the theatre box office what tickets are available for that afternoon or evening. Often these tickets are cheaper than buying in advance, even for seats close to the stage!
Okay without a seat? Even better!
Some theatres have “standing only” tickets that you can purchase for a great discount! If you do not mind standing at the back of a theatre, you can see some incredible shows without spending too much!
I was lucky enough to see a revival of Harold Pinter’s No Man's Land starring Sir Ian Mckellen, and Sir Patrick Stewart for £10 – around $16 CAD! I wasn't sure what to expect with a “standing only” ticket. Honestly, the show was too good to notice if my legs were getting tired. As an English student, it was incredible to be able to witness such theatre legends in action. Note: Ticket prices will vary depending on the show, theatre, time of day and availability. You can also ask about ticket discounts for students! Just be sure to have your student ID on hand.
RESEARCH THE SHOWS YOU WANT TO SEE
I had an ongoing list of shows I was itching to see. Some of these choices were based on reviews I had read, the crowds I could see around the theatres while walking around London, or simply because of the cast involved. It is important to have some idea of the shows you would like to see because it will make it that much easier to pop-in to one of the theatre box offices and ask about ticket availability.
For example, if you find yourself in the West End on a spare afternoon, it is extremely easy to walk past a theatre (or six). You may be reminded of that show whose posters you passed in the tube several times a day. Having multiple shows in mind will also make it easier to theatre-hop if your first choice does not have same-day tickets available, or perhaps do have tickets available, but are not in your desired price range.
Not sure where to start your research? Go to West End LIVE!
West End LIVE is an exciting weekend in London where some of the city’s most popular theatre casts give short performances and information about their shows. This Trafalgar Square event gives you the chance to experience some incredible open-air theatrical performances. Each show has cast members perform to give members of the audience a taste of what to expect in their show. Some of the performances might surprise you and give you a list of shows that interest you that you might not have considered before!
The event is completely FREE to attend – all you have to do is wait in line for access to the event (so bring sunblock and an umbrella!) It is the equivalent of free samples at the grocery store, but instead of a snack, you get a taste of musical numbers and outstanding costumes.
Some of the shows that were part of West End LIVE when I attended included:
- Annie
- The Lion King
- Thriller Live
- Stomp
JOIN A TICKET-RAFFLE
A few of the bigger/more popular/newer West End shows have ticket raffles that keen theatre go-ers can enter to score same-day tickets for an otherwise sold-out show. For these raffles, you just enter your name (either at the box-office or close to the box office in a designated area) and are told to come back at a certain “draw time” time to see if you have won.
My mom and I entered one of these raffles when Aladdin the Musical was just starting out in the West End. We ended up winning the chance to purchase front-row tickets! The atmosphere alone of the raffle was exciting to watch, but the chance to see an award-winning musical front-row? Priceless.
Note: These raffles do not typically grant free tickets, they allow for the opportunity to purchase reduced rate tickets for otherwise sold-out shows.
BE PREPARED TO WAIT
Ultimately, same-day shows are meant to be spontaneous excursions and it is important to not get too disappointed if something you want to see is not available, or your plans for the day change.
You can always try again another day! Have fun with it! Your hard work will eventually pay-off and you will have some great theatre memories to go along with it.
Want to enquire about studying in the UK? Sign up with an advisor today!
A Taste of Canadian Cottage Life in the UK (Part II)
Written by Brittany - 15/06/2021
Previously, we were looking at different ways for students to get a taste of "Canadian cottage life” while studying in the UK.
Missed part one? Click here!
Getting into the wilderness is a shared love across Canada. When you first arrive in the UK, you might feel a longing to get outdoors and hear nature. I remember wanting nothing more than a good fall hike when I first arrived – not impossible in London, but definitely different. Never fear! There are many ways to get that “relaxing at the cottage” feeling while in the UK, even though they may not be as familiar.
Let’s continue!
What is your favourite way to unwind at the cottage?
WATCHING WILDLIFE
Richmond Park
Richmond Park (located in Richmond upon Thames) was originally created in the early 17th century by Charles I as “a royal hunting preserve”. At the time, Charles was escaping the plague of London. His decision to enclose the park was not originally a popular one among the local residents. Richmond Park remains a deer park to this day and is now a National Nature Reserve where “630 Red and Fallow deer [are still] roaming freely since 1637.”
This park is open to the public, and a great place to walk and take in the wildlife. Be sure to follow all safety precautions. These include always remaining 50 metres away from the deer. Additionally, specific times of year will impact different deer behaviour. For example, when young are particularly vulnerable (between May-July), do not get in between a mother and her babies. For more information, you can visit the Royal Park’s website here.
Note: Feeding the deer is prohibited.
Birdwatching
One of the most unmistakable sounds in the Canadian wilderness is the call of the Common Loon. If you’re someone who enjoys listening to the sounds of different birds while you’re relaxing at the cottage, it’s worth exploring the different birds in the UK. You can even see and hear species that aren’t native to North America.
Did you know: the bird we know as a “Loon” is called a “Northern Diver” across the UK? This bird was eaten in Scotland until the 18th century!
If you’re located in a city centre, it might be tricky to differentiate between the sounds of traffic and birds, but many locations across the UK will have dedicated wetlands or nature preserves (sometimes located in the middle of the city) where you can escape the city and have a taste of the countryside.
Not sure which bird is singing?
Use the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB’s) bird song identifier to help understand the new sounds you’re hearing.
Visit https://www.wwt.org.uk/ to find a wetland near you!
CAMPING UNDER THE STARS
ESCAPE THE CITY
If your idea of Canadian cottage life involves camping, you’ll find ample opportunity to do so across the UK! Rolling hills, breathtaking lakes, and open fields will bring a different feel to the experience, but there’s also no telling what history you’ll come across in the process.
Advisor Heather brought camping equipment in order to have an unbelievable experience camping in Wales.
Don’t plan to bring camping equipment with you? Consider renting or borrowing from a friend!
Several websites in the UK will loan out camping equipment (some will even deliver!) Prices and availability will of course vary depending on your location, but it could be an option for those still wanting to experience camping while in the UK!
Did you know: While Canadians are quite used to camping with a tent, the more popular pastime in the UK is “caravanning” - an activity that has remained popular for over a century!
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Fish & chips! -
View from the tent -
Ancient burial ground nearby
While advisor Mackenzie was studying in London, her sister was working as an au pair in Bath. They went on a camping trip together in Wales (using borrowed camping gear and car from her sister’s host family) and got to experience several moments that were akin to Canadian cottaging!
With the UK being an island, you are never far from water. Mackenzie visited the Gower Peninsula and spent an afternoon at Rhossili Bay Beach. Her sister and her camped in various spots, with several being beside the water! Although there was a campfire ban in place at the time, they honoured the Canadian campfire tradition by lighting a few tealights.
On said camping trip, Mackenzie also got to see some wildlife in the form of ponies and cows! While this is not your typical Canadian bear sighting, it was much more agreeable.
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Intently starting Welsh cows -
Sweet ponies!
No matter what type of Canadian cottage life experiences you’re used to, chances are there are activities to bring you right back to that cottage feeling while you’re in the UK.
Whether you’re missing classic desserts by the fire, being on the open water, or even camping under the stars... Just because you’re away from the cottage, doesn’t mean you can’t experience some of those same cottage feelings!
We hope you loved this blog post! Remeber to check out PART I if you missed it!
Feel free to contact one of our Advisors to learn more about studying in the UK!
LGBTQ2+ Inclusivity and Choosing your UK University
Written by Brittany - 01/06/2021
Searching for your perfect UK university is not always an easy task. There are many qualities that students need to consider beyond typical GPA requirements or ranking of a university. For instance, lifestyles, interests, academic goals, and career aspirations can vastly differ from student to student. Above all, it is important that students feel welcome and supported by their university regardless of age, gender, sex, or sexual orientation. As a result, LGBTQ2+ inclusivity and resources at UK universities are becoming extremely important aspects of a university experience!
LGBTQ2+ Equality in the UK
As of 2010, the UK has structured equality laws called “protected characteristics.” The Equality Act of 2010 protects citizens from overt discrimination due to the following characteristics: age; disability; gender reassignment; marriage and civil partnership; pregnancy and maternity; race; religion or belief; sex; and sexual orientation.
Pride in the UK
The UK has a prominent Pride scene - which is hard to discuss without mentioning Pride in London! To illustrate, Pride in London had 1.5 million spectators in 2019 and hosted over 120 events across the city, with more than half of those events free to attend. Additionally, an impressive 70% of these LGBTQ2+ events also supported charity or non-profit LGBTQ2+ organizations. Simultaneously, reducing float numbers also helped sustainability impacts in the city!
Not studying in London?
There are over 100 annual Pride events across the UK, which means that no matter where you end up studying, chances are there are LGBTQ2+ Pride events near you! You can visit https://www.pride-events.co.uk/ to see a full list of Pride events across the UK.
Researching LGBTQ2+ support at your UK university
Here are some ways that you can effectively research your university and ensure it has the LGBQT+ support to match your individual needs:
Look at the clubs and societies that are available
Joining a club or society is a great way to connect with your fellow classmates. To this end, most universities have dedicated LGBTQ2+ oriented clubs that pride themselves on inclusivity and creating a welcoming and safe environment for its members.
While some of these specific university club pages are only accessible to current students, most UK universities will have dedicated social media outlets for these groups (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter). With this in mind, prospective students can look up and explore these channels to get an idea of what the environment is like!
Moreover, these pages are also great for previewing the events these clubs will have which can range from themed movie nights, to fundraising, to awareness campaigns within the university or community.
Most UK universities will also have additional events throughout the month of February to celebrate LGBTQ2+ History month!
Research the facilities that are available
UK universities, much like universities around the world, are actively trying to better themselves for the wellbeing of their students. Consequently, many have added facilities, such as gender-neutral bathrooms or changerooms to support their transgender students. This information is often readily available on a university’s website.
In addition, some UK universities will go beyond this and offer accommodation options for students who identify as LGBTQ2+. The University of Sheffield and Solent University for example both offer this option which is meant to be "a place of peer support where [students] can use their shared experiences to help harbour an inclusive and positive space." Both universities state that they believe “everyone deserves to feel secure and respected in their own homes.”
Check to see if the university takes part in Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index
Launched in 2005, Stonewall is Europe’s largest LGBTQ2+ dedicated charity. Significantly, they have developed a list of 10 criteria for determining LGBTQ2+ friendly universities and workplace environments. The criteria include:
- A harassment policy that specifically mentions sexual orientation
- Mandatory training of faculty on LGBTQ2+ issues.
- Having and highlighting an LGBTQ2+ staff network
(Depending on the university, this staff network can also be open to postgraduate students (including taught master’s and PhD students) - Having a strong LGBTQ2+ student society
- Organizing LGBTQ2+ specific events for students
- Having information on LGBTQ2+ issues widely available throughout the university
- Ensuring that LGBTQ2+ counselling is available
- Consulting LGBTQ2+ students
- Offering LGBTQ2+ students targeted careers advice to help launch their future career
- Becoming a member of Stonewall's Diversity Champions programme
Universities are encouraged to use Stonewall's criteria to create inclusive environments for members of the LGBTQ2+ community, including staff and students. Stonewall's site includes workshop toolkits and helpful resources to enable universities to develop and grow their inclusivity resources.
Additionally, universities submit various statistics to Stonewall for evaluation, and many of our partner universities have been moving up in Stonewall's Equality Index based on the presented results. If a university actively has these resources available to staff members, they will often have similar resources available for students. Thus, they are more equipped to offer LGBTQ2+ student support!
How do I know my university participates in Stonewall?
Universities are proud to showcase their commitment to members of the LGBTQ2+ community. Look for the Stonewall membership emblem on your university’s website or dedicated information pages. For example, the University of Derby has a page dedicated to Stonewall to show their commitment to the criteria.
For more information, and to review the most recent results of the inclusive workplace lists, please visit https://www.stonewall.org.uk/
*Please keep in mind that Stonewall’s list changes each year and is not a complete reflection of the support available to students at any university.
In summation
To sum up, the LGBTQ2+ community in the UK has come a long way in its fight for equality and support. You can read about this history through the British Library’s article a short history of LGBT rights in the UK. No matter which university you choose, know that there is support available.
Choosing a university that offers necessary support for those who identify as LGBTQ2+ is equally as important as choosing a university ranked highly for items like research quality or employability. Above all, you deserve a university that can offer you the resources to feel safe and welcome in the UK and get the most out of your education so that you can become a leading professional in your chosen field.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help! If you're not sure where to find your UK university's LGBTQ2+ support resources, ask your Across the Pond advisor!
If you are new to Across the Pond and don’t have an advisor yet, you can enquire here.
A Taste of Canadian Cottage Life in the UK (Part I)
Written by Brittany - 24/05/2021
Going to the cottage is a way of life across Canada. We even have different names for this activity depending on where you live! Whether you go to the cottage, to camp, to the lake, to the cabin, or to the bungalow, chances are you’ve experienced this favourite pastime with your own family or friends. Essentially, we just love a chance to get out of the city and relax in the wilderness!
If you’re studying in the UK for an extended period of time, you might feel disappointed that you’re potentially missing out on cottage season. Don't fear! I’ve collected a number of experiences across the UK to help you get a similar taste of “the cottage life” while you’re away from your own!
What is your favourite way to unwind at the cottage?
FEET IN THE SAND
Being located on an island does have its advantages – one of many being accessible beaches. No matter where you’re planning to study, you’re likely close to some great sandy beaches that will help you get that cottage feeling while you’re away from Canada.
Close to the capital? Try Brighton!
Located on South-East coast and easily accessibly by train, Brighton is a seaside city with sand, sun and the famous Brighton Palace Pier. If your cottage mood is sitting on the beach, reading, enjoying the sand, and taking in the ocean waves, this is sure to satisfy your craving while also providing an extra dose of fun activities close by.
Want to treat yourself to a holiday fit for a Brit? Try Cornwall!
If picture-perfect beaches are more your aesthetic, Cornwall is not likely to disappoint. Cornwall’s coastline stretches over 250 miles!
There are no shortages of quaint bed and breakfasts here, so if you’re in the mood to relax and explore villages by the sea, this could be perfect for you.
Explore these beautiful locations here.
More of a lake person? Try Scotland!
Scotland's beaches can please any style of cottage goer, whether you want to surf in Aberdeen, camp on the shores of Loch Ness, or walk along the pier in Portobello. There are so many shores, but sometimes you need to search for the truly amazing beaches to spend those rare sunny days at!
Scotland has more than 30,000 freshwater lakes! With this many lakes, you can get that lake feel while surrounded by mountains. If you want a more traditional beach, check out the islands! Isle of Lewis and Isle of Harris have some of the most beautiful beaches; if you go to the west coast, there is nothing between you and Canada. If you are brave, you can even swim (though you may be a bit cold!).
You’ll definitely find some places to rival your favourite Canadian spots!
Did you know? The word ‘loch’ is a Gaelic word meaning lake or body of water that is surrounded by land.
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Isle of Lewis – Dalmore Dail Mor -
Nairn Beach
BY THE BONFIRE
Did you know? A staple ingredient for s’mores (the graham cracker) isn’t available in the UK! Instead, those wishing to make this dish need to get creative – using digestive crackers/biscuits in place of a graham cracker.
Not having graham crackers readily available hasn’t stopped some restaurants from creating unique marshmallow and chocolate pairings though. Especially in London, one of the world’s leading food scenes. If you want to experience some great takes on a cottage classic, check out these locations, recommended by advisor Brittany:
Chin Chin Labs – This experimental ice cream hot spot is located in Camden, London. Their signature hot chocolate is a fan favourite with toasted marshmallow on top of rich hot chocolate.
Find them on Instagram: @chinchinicecream
Mr. Bao – This restaurant, located in Peckham, London, is known for its delicious Taiwanese steamed buns (worth the trip alone). Occasionally they serve dessert Baos that pair marshmallow and chocolate in a way that you’ll dream about for years to come. The combination of fluffy steamed bun meeting chocolate and marshmallow will bring you right back to a summer bonfire.
Keep an eye on their Instagram: @mrbaouk and see if/when this summer favourite comes back.
More of an ice cream fan? Check out Advisor Lauren’s top picks for ice cream in the UK!
ON THE WATER
If you’re not located near the coastline, you might be keen to get on a boat and experience the sounds of the water. Even in the city, there are many ways to get on the water for a little slice of that cottage feeling.
Go punting in Cambridge!
This might give you more “Venice” vibes, but punting around the canals in Cambridge is a great way to get on the water with minimal effort on your part. Sit back and enjoy the views of this world-famous university while listening to the history of the different buildings.
Note: the cost of this activity will range depending on where you go, but you can experience this for as low as £5
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Cambridge from the punt -
Punts (boats) -
Advisor Mackenzie in the punt
Rent a pedal boat in one of the Royal Parks in London!
If you’re located in the capital, you can rent a pedal boat in Hyde Park or Regent’s Park. It’s great exercise, and you’ll usually find some Canadian geese to float amongst, which should make you feel right at home.
Note: Cost and availability for this activity will vary.
Take the River Bus in London!
If you need to get across London, and you want a change from the crowded tube, try taking the River Bus. You can access these buses using your Oyster Card and cruise down the Thames.
For more information, visit the Transport for London (TFL) website.
Note: Make sure you ‘top up’ your Oyster card first – these fares are typically higher than the normal bus or tube fare.
Visit a pub with a view!
There is no shortage of pubs with a great view in the UK. Even in London it is possible to find serene river views that bring you back to a cozy cottage environment. Pair with a pitcher of PIMM’s for the full experience!
We hope you loved this blog post! If you did, stay tuned for PART II!
Feel free to contact one of our Advisors to learn more about studying in the UK!
