The right app can make your life just that little bit easier. Here are some of the ones that have helped me at university as an international student.
First Bus
First Bus allows you to track the main buses you’ll be taking as a student and offers students discounted travel tickets. This was probably my most used app in my first year, since it showed how far away the buses were and estimated how long until they arrived at your stop. Since not every stop has a screen that displays when the next bus is going to arrive, this was a lifesaver!
UNiDAYS/Student Beans
You’d be surprised how many unexpected companies offer student discounts, and with apps like UNiDAYS or Student Beans you’ll never miss one. I use both as there can be different discounts in terms of percentages off, or what brands they’re partnered with. Using both means I always get the best deal! These apps can also act as proof of student status, in case you’re in a situation where you forgot your student card and need to prove you go to university.
MyUoY
Don’t understand what your seminar room code means? That’s part of what MyUoY can help you with. The interactive map can help point you towards the room you’re looking for, and even shows where you are and what direction you’re facing. The app is also your one stop ticket to the library, as it’s where you’ll find your library card to use when borrowing books (or to scan into the library if your student card isn’t on hand). You can also book study spaces, and view your timetable.
Uber/Streamline
I like to think of this as a last resort app, as York is very walkable and the buses are almost always running regularly. But sometimes you need to get places that a bus can’t take you, and Uber is very convenient. The downside to Uber in York is there aren’t any big cabs. But luckily there are also a number of local taxi companies, particularly Streamline, which offer a range of different taxi sizes for all your needs.
Trainline
Another travel essential, Trainline lets you plan and book train tickets, and will show you the best prices. You can also purchase a digital railcard which is attached to the app to save money on all your train journeys. Trainline shows you all the different options from different train operators so you can decide which is the best one for you. This is another one of my most used apps as I love to travel within the UK and visit the many train accessible areas around York.
SafeZone
Whilst I’ve thankfully never had to use SafeZone, it is a York student essential to have downloaded. It is an on demand level of added protection and helps you quickly contact campus security, first aid, or emergency services. I’ve found that York feels very safe, but SafeZone offers added peace of mind knowing that help is easily accessible, just in case.
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