“How did you end up settling on Manchester?” - This is another question that I have faced a lot since I announced my decision to attend the University of Manchester. Fantastic, finally one that is easier to answer!
If you, like me, have blindly applied to a number of universities in a bout of paranoia that you might not get a spot anywhere, you might have ended up with a whole bunch of offers that you now have to sift through. So, how do you decide on which university to attend? An important decision like that should not be taken lightly, and it is also important to take a look at the question from angles that you can easily forget about. While it is always interesting to hear about course reviews, rankings, and general university experiences, it is also important to take a closer look at the city you are about to make your new home.
No matter if you have already settled on Manchester or are still in the decision-making process, I would like to show my appreciation for this city and share with you a few things I have come to love about it.
- The history. I was a huge history nerd before I started university, and it was a lot of fun to rediscover this passion while living here. I can never get enough of walking around the city, checking out the landmarks and learning more about the history and some of the great people that come from here. Manchester is rich in museums to show its heritage and there definitely is something to see for everyone. My latest fascination has been Emmeline Pankhurst and the Pankhurst Centre.
- The architecture. I love the combination of modern and historical buildings, from the 14th-century charm of Manchester Cathedral to Daniel Libeskind’s Imperial War Museum, there is beauty to find in every corner. I remember turning on the spot in St. Peter’s Square on my first day here, looking around from the Central Library to the Midlands Hotel over to the skyscrapers in Deansgate Square and thinking how lucky I am to be a part of a place like this.
- The people. While I already knew about some of the other aspects I have mentioned, this one was a little harder to research beforehand and an even nicer surprise. My general experience here is that people are a lot more outgoing and friendlier than where I am from. Most of the ones I have interacted with have shown great spirits and a sense of humour, and I have never had to be afraid to ask for help.
While I could go on and on about this topic, I hope I could give at least a short overview. I was lucky enough to experience many European cities, all of which are beautiful in their own ways, but I have never felt at home as quickly as have in Manchester.
