LIFE ON CAMPUS: THE HIDDEN SIDE OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN YORK, UK

 

THE HIDDEN SIDE OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN YORK, UK


When people think about going to study in York, England, the University of York (UoY) is often the first institution that comes to mind. However, there is another university that deserves much more attention, particularly among international students: York St John University (YSJ).





 

My experience and observations have given me a different perspective on student life in York. During my time there, I visited York St John University while exploring alternatives to the difficulties and discrimination I experienced at the University of York. I found YSJ to be a welcoming, friendly and cosmopolitan environment where I could genuinely imagine myself studying.




What particularly caught my attention was the presence of Black African students and other international communities, including students of Arab and Palestinian backgrounds. Several African students I spoke with shared stories of their educational journeys. Some told me they had been referred to York St John after experiencing difficulties at UoY, including racial and other forms of discrimination. Others explained that they knew many African students who had been unable to complete their studies at UoY.

Interestingly, some students had initially known very little about York St John before being directed there. Other never hear about the University of York.

These conversations raise important questions about international student experiences, institutional support, inclusion and the challenges that students of colour may encounter in higher education.

York St John deserves recognition. Beyond university rankings and institutional prestige, students need an environment where they feel welcomed, respected, included and able to complete their education.

If I had the opportunity to choose again, I would seriously consider studying at York St John University. From what I experienced during my visit, it felt like the right place for me.

Sometimes, the best university is not necessarily the one with the highest ranking, but the one where students can belong, learn and thrive. 

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