Starting university is a big deal, and choosing the right course can feel even more overwhelming. When I accepted my offer to study BA Business and Management at York, I wanted a degree that was practical yet would challenge me, while still offering support. Now that I’m halfway through my second year, I can honestly say that’s exactly what I’ve experienced. In this post, I want to share what the course has been like for me, what a typical week looks like, and a few things I wish I’d known before starting.

Why I Chose Business and Management at York
I picked Business and Management at York because I wanted a course that mixes practical skills with real‑world experience. York stood out because it doesn’t treat business as something separate, it links it to society, ethics, and real‑life impact. I really liked that approach.
The campus, the college system, and the overall atmosphere made it feel like a place where I could grow both academically and personally. I also liked that the course covers a wide range of business areas, which gave me space to figure out what I’m most interested in.

What Surprised Me About the Course
I expected the course to be very lecture‑heavy, but it turned out to be much more interactive. Seminars and workshops make up a big part of the learning, and you’re encouraged to question ideas, discuss concepts with your group, and apply theory to real‑life examples.
The staff are also incredibly approachable. If you’re unsure about something, they genuinely want to help you understand it.

Modules I’ve Enjoyed the Most
A few modules have really stood out for me:
- Marketing Principles & Practice was relative, engaging, and full of real‑world case studies.
- Organisational Behaviour helped me understand how people work in teams and what motivates them.
- Business Accounting is surprisingly satisfying once you get the hang of it; it’s logical and teaches genuinely useful skills.
The teaching style in the School for Business and Society is very collaborative. Lectures cover the main ideas, and seminars bring those ideas to life through discussion and group work.
What a Typical Week Looks Like
I usually have around 10 contact hours spread across the week. The rest of my time is a mix of independent study, reading, group meetings, and my part‑time job. Having a routine helps me manage everything without feeling overwhelmed.
My favourite study spots are:
- The Library is perfect for quiet, focused work.
- The Link Café is great for lighter reading or meeting friends for group projects.
I try to get most of my work done during the day so I can relax in the evenings. Swimming and hiking are my favourite ways to switch off — they really help me clear my mind, especially during busy weeks.

Group Work: Challenging but Worth It
Group work can definitely be challenging. Everyone has different working styles, and coordinating schedules isn’t always easy. But when it comes together, the results are often better than what any one person could do alone.
It’s taught me a lot about communication, patience, and teamwork. Even when it feels tough, there’s usually a sense of accomplishment at the end.
Final Thoughts
Studying Business and Management at York has been a mix of challenges, learning moments, and personal growth. The course pushes you to think about real‑world problems, not just textbook examples, and the support from staff makes a huge difference.
I’m proud of how much more confident I’ve become, especially with presentations and group discussions. Balancing uni, work, and my hobbies has shown me I’m more capable than I thought, and I’m excited to see how the rest of the course shapes up.

Read more student stories from the School for Business and Society at York.

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