The shift from home to university can be daunting and can bring up all sorts of questions: Will I remember my way around? Is there enough to do? Have I picked the right place for me?
While these worries are completely understandable, as a GSA student, you needn’t worry too much. GSA is based on the University of Surrey’s Stag Hill campus, just a short 10-15 minute walk from Guildford town centre. With restaurants, cafés, shops, bars and entertainment all on your doorstep, there’s plenty to explore. Don't forget, GSA regularly hosts events on campus, from theatre productions and performances to talks, presentations and other special events. Keep an eye on the performances and events page so you don't miss out!
For those who want to stay active, Surrey Sports Park offers a gym, swimming, climbing and fitness classes. For a change of scenery, take a walk up to Guildford Castle and explore the surrounding grounds.
Guildford offers a great variety of food, from Thai and Spanish to Greek, Lebanese, Italian, Korean, and lots more! For a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank, Hillside Food Court on campus offers a great range of options, from pizzas and jacket potatoes to salads and freshly cooked specials. Another great option is Young's Kitchen, a casual Asian-inspired restaurant and takeaway located in the Students' Union. For post-night-out food or a hangover cure, Zara Kebab is a reliable option.
Take your student ID with you when you’re exploring Guildford, as many local businesses offer student discounts. And don’t be afraid to try things simply because you’ve never done them before. Join a society, go to a student event, explore somewhere new, or say yes to that spontaneous coffee with a friend.
A Local’s Recommendations
Guildford Cathedral - right next to campus and well worth exploring. Most importantly, give yourself time to settle in. You don’t have to know the best restaurant, quickest route into town or favourite walking spot during your first week. University is about gradually finding your own rhythm, discovering new places and making new memories. Before long, Guildford will hopefully feel less like an unfamiliar town and more like your home away from home. An unfamiliar setting can cause students to feel a lot of pressure about their academics. To an extent, pressure is good - healthy pressure can push us to achieve the best of our ability and appreciate the effort needed to reach our goals. However, balance is arguably the most important thing that an individual must learn during their time at Surrey. In contrast to a lively night scene, Surrey is also a nature lovers' paradise. Scenic walks, breathtaking views and top picnic spots can all be found in the local area surrounding the University. The University campus itself has lots of green spaces and a lake, which can be a great place to take a walk and clear your head. I find these activities to be the most grounding and a healthy distraction. It's important to remember that while dedication and hard work are incredibly important, your university experience should also be fun and filled with new memories and adventures. The variety Surrey has to offer ensures that there is something for everybody, where students can find a new normal and build a home away from home. Written by Lucy Baxter☕ Coffee & Catch-ups
🍽️ Food
🎭 Culture & Entertainment
🎶 For a Night Out
🌳 When You Need a Break
Finding the Balance