Tag: Sheffield

The ultimate guide to Instagram in Sheffield

mila-donderBy Mila Donders (MSc Leadership and Management)

Before I came to the UK, I was told that Sheffield was not the prettiest of cities. Happily, once I got here, I found that I absolutely disagreed. Not only do I think that Sheffield is actually a beautiful city, I also think that it is one of the most Instagrammable places I have ever visited. With this guide, I hope to give you some ideas for interesting and good looking posts while also telling you what my favourite parts of Sheffield are (and showing off my own pictures).

Tip #1: Kelham Island

ki-editedOne of my favourite areas in Sheffield is Kelham Island. Not only is it absolutely gorgeous, it is also very different from the rest of the city. It looks industrial, but hip, and has some of Sheffield’s best bars and restaurants. A great place to take some cool shots is the Kelham Island Museum (pictured with the flags), but any spot around Kelham Island will essentially do the trick.

Tip #2: Paradise Square

Located just behind the cathedral paradise-square-editedin the centre of town, Paradise Square is a charming little place that will make your Instagram-followers very happy/jealous. The best pictures are taken in the late afternoon or around sunset. Try to take your pictures during working hours; that way, the parking lot in the middle of the square will be relatively empty, which will make taking nice pictures a little bit easier.

Tip #3: Clay Wood

sheffield-edited-againIf you’re a fan of city views, this is the place for you. Clay Wood is just behind the train station and you do have to walk up a hill for the view, but it is 100% worth it. From the hill, you will be able to see and capture Sheffield in its full glory. After you take your pictures, you could go for a walk in the nearby park or visit the Cholera Monument to learn more about Sheffield in darker times.

Tip #4: Use the weather!

It is no secret that weather in the UK can be rainbow-editeda little unpredictable, but I find that since the weather in Sheffield changes so much, there are many opportunities to catch beautiful images using the weather. For instance, there can be a lot of rain, but the weather has the tendency to change quickly, increasing the chances of seeing rainbows! Additionally, the clouds can give your pictures some beautiful effects, especially around sunrise or sunset.

There are also plenty of other gorgeous places to explore around Sheffield, such as the Botanical Gardens, the Winter Gardens, and of course, the Peak District. I hope this guide has been helpful to you, or at least shown you that Sheffield is a beautiful city, worth exploring. Happy Instagramming!

5 things you shouldn’t worry about when coming to study at the University of Sheffield

roxana-rojas-picBy Roxana Rojas Linares, MSc Entrepreneurship and Management

So maybe you are planning to get a postgraduate degree at the University of Sheffield but are concerned about a few things like language, making friends and getting used to a whole new environment. And you are right; studying abroad is challenging but is also a highly rewarding experience that will change your life.

Here is a list of my top 5 things you shouldn’t be worried about.

1. Language

If English is not your first language you may feel concerned about not being able to communicate or about not understanding your lectures. You may picture yourself in a room full of English speaking people with you staring from the corner. Well, you shouldn’t. Each year more than 5,000 students from all over the world join the University of Sheffield and it is a fact that you’ll share lectures with many of them. So first thing, you are not alone! Secondly, the University gives you the opportunity to improve your English skills through workshops and lessons especially designed for international students. They can even help you to check your written assignments. Language will not be a problem.

2. Making friends

First days at school can be scary. Now imagine it in a foreign country! Will you make any friends? The answer is, definitely. Apart from meeting people from your classes, the University makes a big effort to program plenty of activities to break the ice, from sports to entertainment and culture. Also, there are dozens of students’ societies for you to join. Share your passion for music, art, dancing, books… you name it. And there’s more, Sheffield has been named the friendliest city in the UK so be prepared, chances are you won’t even have time for yourself!

3. Food

my-life-in-sheffield-6It’s true. After a while you will miss some of your hometown’s flavours. However, Sheffield has excellent restaurants from all over the world. Greek, Asian, Turkish and Italian to name a few. On the other hand, the University Shop at the Students Union and other specialized supermarkets sell international groceries. Test your cooking talents and make yourself and your friends a traditional dinner from your country.

4. Finding a place to live

Finding a place to live in an unknown city can be intimidating. Is this area safe? Will I like it? Sheffield is a beautiful city with plenty of living options for students. Any area near the University is safe, affordable and near supermarkets, coffee shops and restaurants. If you don’t like taking risks, go for the University accommodation, located in the best areas of town and at a walking distance from the University facilities.

5. Safety

If you come from a big city, you will find Sheffield charming and friendly. If you come from a small city you will find it exciting and entertaining. In any case, crime rates in Sheffield are low and the city is known for being one of the safest places in the UK. However, it is always advisable to take basic safety measures like avoiding walking alone at night or in dark places. The University makes sure you have access to safety information and runs special transportation for women at night.

I hope that helps you feel more comfortable in your decision to study at the University of Sheffield and to understand what Sheffield has to offer!