Dundee University

What’s it like as a place to live? Dundee is perfect for students. It is small enough that you can easily get around without the need of a car but not so small that you can end up feeling isolated. The campus is right in the middle of the city which makes it all the more convenient for students.

How’s the student accommodation? The accommodation is almost all brand new and very nicely done. All the rooms have ensuite bathrooms and come with internet access. However, they are costly for your average student.

What’s the student population like? The student population is like one big community and it is often said that there is only 3 degrees of separation at Dundee University. With a lot of international students there is no lack of variety when it comes to societies and student events. Dundee attracts students from all backgrounds which allows a greater diversity.

How do students and locals get on? Students generally have a good relationship with the locals and there is a good community atmosphere. There is effective communication between the community and the students to ensure it stays that way. 

What’s it like as a place to study? The courses are diverse and incorporate. They can be as flexible as you want – fine art and philosophy anyone? Yet the modules within those course can be as traditional as you want.

What are the teaching staff like? The teaching staff range from world famous researchers to PhD students stepping onto the career ladder. They understand that they will get the best results by listening to the students!

What are student societies like? There are 50+ societies and you can usually find one to suit you; and if not, it’s easy enough to start a new one. The societies and sports clubs tend to be the centre of student life and the majority of students are involved in one or more. They range from international societies, to political societies to ‘Operatics Society’ and ‘The Poker Society’

What’s a typical night out? The Students Union is generally considered the hub for most students. A typical night there might involve anything from cheesy pop to electro-dance music.

And how much does it cost? The union is cheap on most nights but particularly on a Tuesday night when everything is free and drinks are only £1.

How can you get home safely? The students union offers a free nightbus service to get people back home safely after a night out.

Is it an expensive place to live? Dundee is a pretty cheap place to live in terms of rent and food etc.

Average price of a pint? About £2.50

And the price of a takeaway? A decent Chinese is usually around a fiver

What’s the part-time work situation? Jobs are pretty hard to find everywhere at the moment but usually it’s easy enough. The University has a service called Jobshop which is generally the best way to find a part time job. It’s not so great for a career after leaving University though. Most students don’t stick around after graduating.

What’s the best feature about the place? About the city? It’s an easy commute to all of the major Scottish cities and London – oh and the 24 hour bakery!  

About the Uni? Easily the Students Union

And the worst? City – not being able to understand the local accent

Uni – some of the old buildings are beginning to look run down.

And to sum it all up ? Being a student at Dundee University offers a thriving opportunity to engage in new activities and meet new and diverse people; of course, it’s also a great night out! 

George Robertson (politician); Selina Scott (presenter); Fred McCauley (author, presenter).

Contact students association tel 01382 221841, email vpc@dusa.co.uk or check the website on www.dusa.co.uk.