A home away from home

As an international student, on-campus accommodation quickly became a warm home away from home.

Before joining halls, I definitely had concerns, especially as an international student. There were worries about fitting in and whether cultural differences might pose challenges in making connections with others. However, I found adjusting to life here easier than I imagined, as I've been able to find a sense of belonging and connect with a diverse community of students.

Whether it's bonding over late-night study sessions, sharing laughter in the communal kitchen, or coming together for campus events and activities, halls offer a great range of experiences that enrich not just your university journey but your entire life. 

I chose to live on campus to get the full university experience. Being part of the hall committee, organising Freshers' Week, and meeting new students who are experiencing what I did when I first moved in are all important to me to ease other’s university transitions.

Living on campus benefits both my academic and social life at university. Academically, the proximity to lecture halls motivates me to attend classes regularly. My lecture halls are just a 7-minute walk away, which is a great benefit. If I have a few hours between lectures, I can easily return to my room for a power nap and then head back. Socially, it helps me get involved in various committees and societies since most meetings are held on campus, making participation convenient and encouraging a more active university life.

Making a difference

I feel at home living in campus accommodation and have found a strong sense of community on campus. Being involved in various committees has significantly contributed to this.

I have been a school representative, Vice Chair of the student’s mental health society, Sports Officer at the Women's Network, and Social Sport Coordinator of Para Sports. Each role has given me unique experience and a deep sense of belonging.

I have a deep personal connection to the welfare and diversity initiatives at Loughborough. I firmly believe that student welfare should be the top priority for every educational institution, and I am committed to contributing to a community on campus that has given me so much. My work encompasses various areas, including mental health, women's empowerment, sports, and physical activity. I have focused on positively impacting student welfare and diversity. One of my proudest achievements is the #HearOurVoice Interview series, which aims to amplify discussions on important issues. I even got to interview Loughborough Alumni - Baroness Tanni Grey Thompson. 

In terms of support from the hall staff, I've found the cleaners and the admin team at Claudia Parsons to be extremely helpful. While the Wardens and Sub-Wardens have a lot of students to look after in the hall, overall, it's been a good support system, and I'm grateful for the assistance I've received.

Claudia Parsons Hall was consistently mentioned whenever I asked for recommendations for a self-catered option, and I would recommend it to others too!