A Mature Student’s Take on Community, Coffee, and Starting Over
Coming to university a little later in life can feel a bit like joining a film halfway through. Everyone else seems to know the plot, the characters and even the inside jokes, and you are still reading the opening credits. That is exactly how I felt when I moved to York from overseas to begin my degree. I was excited, nervous and very aware that it had been a long time since I last sat in a classroom.
Returning to education in my late thirties felt like hitting reset on everything I thought I knew about learning. Friends and family back home were supportive, although a few did question whether I was brave or slightly mad. Now that I have settled in, they can see how much happier I am. In my experience, returning to study is exciting, but also a mix of nerves, chaos and the occasional two in the morning moment where you quietly ask yourself, “What have I done?”
Spoiler: studying at York has turned into one of the best decisions I have ever made.
UoY: Campus East, David Kato College
Finding My Feet at York
I came to York with a suitcase, a camera, and a lot of questions. The first few weeks felt like a whirlwind. New city. New country. New academic system. And, of course, the mystery of British weather, which changes mood faster than I do.
In my experience, what helped most in those early days was how friendly people were. Gotta love that Northern English charm and York has a reputation for being welcoming. I found that to be true both in the city and on campus. Staff on my course were approachable, students were easy to talk to and there was always someone willing to point me in the right direction when I inevitably got lost. You will, just accept it!
As a mature student, I worried I might stand out, but York has a real mix of people. Some students had just finished college, while others had taken gap years, worked full time or travelled. Because of that variety, I never truly felt out of place. Instead, I felt like my extra life experience gave me more to contribute.
York city centre: Merchantgate bus stop
Finding the Right Course for Me
I originally joined a different programme before realising it was not the right fit for me. Changing direction can feel scary, especially when you have already moved countries to be here, but the University staff were extremely supportive. Talking with tutors, student support teams and other students helped me understand where I wanted to be.
Moving into the Department of Education was the turning point. The community here feels close-knit and encouraging. My lecturers know me by name, students help each other out, and the atmosphere in general is warm and collaborative. In my opinion, the department truly reflects the values it teaches: inclusion, understanding and making space for every learner.
UoY: Education STEP Program
Life as a Mature Student
On one hand, I sometimes feel very aware that I have had a whole working life before coming here. On the other hand, that experience has helped me manage my time, approach assignments with confidence and communicate well with staff.
There are moments where you feel the age difference, of course. For example, when someone references a TV show I have never heard of or uses slang that I have to Google. But most of the time, I feel like we are simply students learning together. Although being one of the only students to get the teachers references and jokes sometimes is a bonus.
UoY: Academic Rep training
Little Things That Helped Me Settle In
One of the best decisions I made was finding a study spot I loved. For me, that is Café Moto, which is connected to a motorcycle dealership. It sounds unusual, but it has become my favourite place to read, study or relax. There is good coffee, interesting background noise and a relaxed atmosphere that, in my experience, helps a lot when you are adjusting to university life.
I also found that walking through the city helped me settle in. York is full of historic streets, bookshops, cafés and green spaces. Even a short walk around campus or the city walls helped me feel more grounded. Not to mention how gorgeous the campus is, I love finding those hidden spots not mentioned on any brochures.
Another big factor was getting involved. This is something I wish I had done my first year here. Doing it this year has made my experience here so much more enjoyable. I joined department events, volunteered (This year and Last year with NightSafe, This year as a Department Rep, and next semester with York Student in Schools [YSIS]), worked with students from different backgrounds and asked questions whenever I needed to. University life becomes much easier when you build a small community around you.
York city centre: Early morning hours
Looking Ahead
Studying Education at York has really shaped how I think about community. The more time I spend in the department, the more I see how much we learn from one another, whether that is through group work, discussions or simple conversations in the Education Common Room. That mix is one of the best parts of being in this department. It feels like a place where you can grow into the educator you want to become.
The University of York has a way of becoming home, often in small and surprising ways. And if my experience is anything to go by, you might find yourself settling in faster than you ever imagined.
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