Wednesday 30-03-2022 - 09:36

We’ve all been there; you wake up to the ear shattering sound of your alarm and you’ve already decided that today isn’t the day.

Sometimes you’re not feeling it, and sometimes life just gets in the way.

These things can’t be helped, but there’s loads of benefits you can get from spending more time on university grounds; from new hobbies and interests, to better grades and finding friends.

 

---

 

Here’s our seven top reasons for you to spend more time on campus.

 

It’s Spring – the season of change

 

We’re finally being blessed with longer days. If there’s ever been a perfect time to snap out of old habits and embrace those extra daylight hours – it’s now.

Manchester Met has some of the prettiest views in the city and this time of year is the perfect chance to see it in all its glory.

All Saint’s Park is surrounded by pink blossom trees, and when the weather is warm, it’s the perfect place to soak up some vitamin D on a lunch break. The library also provides perfect views of the park - rain, or shine.

Some honourable mentions are included in this visual guide and include The Salutation’s beer garden, the walk to Brooks (we’ll let you decide amongst yourselves whether it’s a 10-minute walk or not), and the rooftop terrace on the Art School.

 

 

---

 

Study spaces

 

We’ve all experienced the pain of getting your work (snacks) together and making your way up to your usual spot to realise the entire library is jam packed.

What you might not know is that there are multiple study spots across campus, all with potential to become your new favourite.

The Union’s got loads of study spaces for you to take advantage of, including Starbucks, the Food Hall, and the quieter third floor with comfy seats and great views. All of which (plus more) are mentioned in our visual guide to study spaces.

If you're lucky enough to get a spot in library though and you’re not a frequent visitor, one of students has made handy tip video for using the library for the first time.

 

---

 

More productivity, less procrastination

 

It’s common knowledge that people benefit from being around those spending time being productive.

If you’re struggling to find the motivation to study or get an assignment done, try taking yourself off to the library, or one of the study spaces in this article.

When you’re surrounded by people who are in the same place for a common purpose, it’s hard not to join in and get some work done. And if not, well at least you gave it a go.

 

 

---

 

The social side

 

It goes without saying that spending more time in university means you’re constantly meeting new people, whether it’s in lectures, the library or on one of many nights out.

The Union also offers a host of social activities for you to expand your social circle even further:

There are over 130 clubs and societies to get involved with. If you’ve got a hobby, there’s probably a club or society to match it – and if not, you can start your own.

There's also the International Students Group, where regular meet ups and day trips are organised for those who have joined us from overseas.

The Union also regularly host social events that can be attended by all, including free entry to the I Love Wednesday’s club night and occasional free roller discos. Have a look through what’s coming up on The Union’s event page.

 

---

 

Manchester Met's hidden gems

 

There’s an incredible number of things on the Man Met campus that you probably didn’t know about but are worth an explore.

Did you know the John Dalton building has a floating car? Probably not.

There’s also a bath (that no one can have a bath in) in the Brooks Building - as well as the giant steps you can take to get to it.

Check out another visual guide for things on the Man Met campus that just (may not) make sense for some more exploring inspo.

 

 

---

 

Advice

 

The Union offers some of the best advice services available to students, with a fantastic team of specialist trained staff to help you with any issues.

The Advice Centre offers support in areas including housing, financial, mental health, assignment deadlines, sexual misconduct and more.

The centre provides a friendly environment for students to drop in on their way through campus if they need any support. So, pop in, all advice is free and confidential.

 

---

 

The City

 

Manchester is one of the most famous cities in the world, so it would be a crime to not take advantage of how much there is to do.

From nights out and gigs, to museums and educational tours, it’s a guarantee you’ll find something you’ll enjoy.

Honourable mentions include Chorlton Water Park (when we’re finally blessed with good weather), football stadium tours and Media City/Salford Quays.

There’s multiple event guides online to have a flick through too, or if you need some more direct inspiration, check out the Union’s video guide on some of the best historic pubs in Manchester.

When you can get a discounted buss pass from The Union too, just for being a student, there’s really no excuse.

 

Image source: Paul Grogan Photography