Becoming a student is an exciting life moment. You’ll suddenly have new independence and be plunged into a world where you meet new people while studying full-time. However, choosing your university city can be tricky. London is naturally at the top of many people’s lists, but this fast-paced capital is not for everyone and there are plenty of great alternatives around the country. Get an insight into whether or not studying in the city is the right choice for you by exploring the pros and cons of student life in London.
Pro: Diverse universities
For a start, London has a wide range of universities for you to choose from. From elite medical courses to leading arts degrees, London universities are amongst the best in the world. Plus, with an international student population, you will be exposed to all sorts of different cultures for a more comprehensive world view. And, as London is one of the premier business cities in the world, there are plenty of opportunities for networking and bolstering your CV towards the end of your academic career.
Con: Widespread student community
One of the downsides of living in such a large and varied city is that the student community is spread out. Unlike many other UK towns and cities, there isn’t a centre for the student population or a collection of designated haunts. Instead, students are spread out across London, literally miles apart. With no central campus, you might find that you miss out on a sense of community during your time studying.
Pro: Fast-tracked future
London has the most job opportunities in the UK – and you’ll be perfectly situated to capitalise on this. Those studying in London are well-placed to start internships that improve employability or be the first to pounce on popular career opportunities.
Con: Capital costs
The cost-of-living is higher in London than in the rest of the UK and this can push your student budget right to the limit. Although you do receive a limited amount of uplift, with inflation rising rapidly this is unlikely to cover all of the extra costs. Having limited spending money can make it more difficult to enjoy a balanced and varied student life.
Pro: Rich culture
London is blessed with a rich culture: its monuments, history, buildings and museums are all well worth exploring. Whatever your interest, you can find amazing places to lose yourself in around every corner. Although these establishments can be expensive, it is worth your while experiencing the unique delights of the capital. To take advantage of once-in-a-lifetime events without breaking the bank, you can take out a student loan from a specialist provider to help tide you over until the start of the new term.
Con: Getting around
Getting around can also be difficult in London. While the city boasts an intricate transport network, the distances between parts of London are still large. This can mean it takes time and effort to see your friends – especially compared to more compact cities you can study in.
London is a thrilling place to study – but there are drawbacks. If you follow the guide above, though, you should be all set to make an informed decision that works well for you.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
