Elinor Banks

Why did you choose Swansea?

I chose Swansea as I fell in love with my course and the location. I attended an Open Day and met some current students on the course who were so passionate about it that it made me more excited to go to university and study the course. The modules available were very interesting and being a joint honours student meant that Swansea was quite unique in what it offered.

What you have enjoyed the most about the modules you have chosen?

I have experienced a range of different modules across both Education and Psychology. One of my most enjoyable modules has been Additional Learning Needs within Education as this is something I am passionate about and I love being able to help children with additional learning needs. Another module I enjoyed was Enhancing Learning with Digital Technologies, which was informative as technology is so widely used now, and the module gave me knowledge on how to effectively use technology within Education.

What is your typical day as a student? As a Joint Honours student, are you able to balance the two subjects?

A difference between College and University is the level of independence there is. At University you are in charge of your own work and ensuring it gets done. A seminar is more interactive as we can have a discussion about what we have been learning in the lectures.

It is possible to balance Education and Psychology being a joint honours student. In some semesters the balance might have looked slightly different as I had more Education or Psychology modules. But it was still manageable, with some time management skills and organisation.

There is a balance of socialising and work at university, there is time for everything. But for me it required being organised and staying on top of my work. Societies and socialising are beneficial for me as I could have a break from my studies and it gave me motivation as I had something to work towards.

Are you involved in any clubs and societies?

I have been involved with the netball society and tennis society playing at a social level. This was enjoyable as it gave me a nice break from my studies once a week to do a sport that I loved. I recommend others join a society too.

After a few years of Varsity not happening because of Covid, I was lucky to experience it. It really is an amazing day seeing students come together and support each other playing sports. The rugby in Swansea.com stadium is an unbelievable atmosphere as well.

What’s the best thing about living in Swansea?

The best thing about living in Swansea has to be the beach. It is the best place to socialise with friends, go for walks and relax. If you are new to Swansea, make sure to explore the area as it is so beautiful. From the Gower, to Mumbles, Kilvey Hill and Clyne Gardens, there is so much to do and explore.

What tips would you give a student beginning university?

It is so important to attend lectures and stay up to date with work. Missing one lecture may not seem like the end of the world, but once you miss one, it is so easy to miss more and get far behind in work. It is much easier to just attend lectures and do your independent work.

Please tell us about your accommodation experiences at Swansea University.

I have had a range of living experiences whilst at university. In my first year I lived in halls on Bay Campus, which is so sociable and fun. I really recommend that new students try to get out of their room as much as possible and meet new people. During second year, I moved into private halls. For my final year, I lived in a house off campus with some of my friends, which was a nice change as I chose to live with my friends.