Derby University - Goods and Bads. (University of Derby in general)

Member Name: Caewan

Product:	University of Derby in general
Date:	19/07/09 (110 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Lots to see and do, Generally nice place!

Disadvantages: Lots of walking involved, One bad Halls of Residence.

I'm currently going into my second year of studying Geology at Derby university, so this review will be based on my first year.
Freshers week - This week, where ever you go is one of the most awkward experiences of your University life, meeting all those new people and finding your way around. I found that it wasn't as bad as I expected, the University staff were always around to help and a lot of the lecturers planned team building and ice breaking excersises. As well as this there was a faire which was useful as there were loads of freebies from all of the local clubs and groups. As well as this the University organised a street party which was brilliant.

Accomidation - The accomidation is up to date, well, all but Lonsdale - There are rumoured to be mice and foxes as well as problems with insects. All the others appear to be great :) Personally I was in St Christophers Court, which had a great community and my flat and the people around were amazing and to me we felt like a little family at the end. - Unfortunatly, all halls of residence are off campus so a 10 minute walk is usually needed, unless you live at one of the further ones where it can take 20 minutes or a short bus journey costing £1:50. (Oh, there is a free shuttle between Markeaton and Keddlestone! and at nights betweeen Keddlestone and Lonsdale, via Markeaton)

Night life - What can I say? I'm not really a big drinker so I went out like 3 times in the year, but they were very enjoyable times, and the people I know that went out every week enjoyed it thoroughly. It's one of the best parts of Derby, so I'm told. The student Union bar is great also - There are great bands on every month or so, and they do different events during the week (And it's good for getting a pint after lectures ;) ) If you're not a drinker, there are loads of places to go out resturants, the Cinema (don't fotget your 2 for 1 Orange thing on Wednesday!)

The University - The Kedlestone campus is recently going through a window renevation..thing, where they appear to be putting windows on top of the old windows therefore making it look prettyer. It does! It really looks a lot better but I wouldn't have payed 10 million for them to do that. As well as this the atrium is a nice place, with a Upper Crust sandwich shop, Keddies - A newsagent type shop, a bank and two cash points, Waterstones and a hairdressers. There are always things going on - It's really busy with different University events and weekly stalls as well as occasional shows. It's a very up to date place.

I don't feel it is fair to review the teaching at Derby as I have had no experience with any department other than the Science department - Everyone I know is pleased with the quality of teaching though! If you need any more details feel free to contact me.

Summary: Derby Uni is a good place to be - Not best Educationally according to some, but most enjoyable :)