Community and Culture

At the University of Chester

We take pride in our diverse community and culture. We believe that our students' varied backgrounds, perspectives and experiences enrich our academic and social life, creating a vibrant and inclusive student experience. Our international students significantly contribute to this richness, bringing a wealth of traditions, knowledge and cultural practices that enhance the university experience for everyone.

Supportive and Inclusive Environment

The University of Chester provides a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. Our Student Experience team is here to help international students adjust to life in the UK and succeed in their studies. Our international students are at the heart of our University, and we are committed to ensuring that your experience here is enriching, enjoyable and memorable.

Chat to a Student

A word from Race Advocate, Masuma Akhtar:

"Hi, I'm Masuma, originally from Bangladesh but born and raised in the UAE! I'm an international student, here to study Law at the University of Chester. I have been working as a Student Race Advocate and it's been absolutely amazing to help make a change for students from different ethnic backgrounds. A little bit of advice to everyone arriving – remember to get familiar with your visa rules, set up a bank account, and register with a GP. But most importantly, explore your campus and connect with other students; it'll help you feel right at home! Remember everyone's in the same boat as you, so don't be afraid to speak up first and make new friends."

The University of Chester offers a fantastic experience both on and off campus. Learn, live, socialise, and make the most of all the extra opportunities available to you.

Chester Students’ Union (CSU)

CSU has an incredible range of societies to join that host a variety of inclusive and exciting events. Many international students have also set up societies relating to their home country and/or culture. Some of the events that societies have hosted recently include:

Indian Society - Diwali Festival Celebration
Iranian Society - Iranian Monthly Get-together
Bangladesh Society - Bangladesh Mother-tongue Day
Middle Eastern Society – Ramadan Iftar
Nepalese Society - Nepali New Year Celebration

Chaplaincy

Our multi-faith chaplaincy is a safe and welcoming space for people of all faiths and none. Working across the whole University, offering pastoral, spiritual and religious support, and fostering a diverse community through our spaces and events.

Sport and Active Lifestyle

Whether you’re new to the sport, a seasoned competitor, or just want to give something a go, our Sports and Active Lifestyle team can support you to get involved. With a variety of facilities, programmes, challenges, activities and events, there’s sure to be something you can get involved in.

Student Race Advocates

Since the 2020/21 academic year, we have recruited Student Race Advocates. These advocates are students from Black, Asian, and other minority ethnic backgrounds, both home and international. The Race Advocates play a vital role in supporting and promoting the needs of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic students, contributing to various University activities to ensure excellent service delivery. Their responsibilities include:

Improving inclusivity and student opportunities for Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic students
Collaborating with staff on various projects, including organising conferences and events
Contributing to policy input and development.

This paid role offers students a wide range of experiences while promoting race equality across the University of Chester.

If you would like to find out more about our Student Race Advocates and the projects they completed this year, have a look at their Instagram.

There are many ways to share and learn more about your fellow students' experiences as an international student.

Podcasts and Shows

International Citizen Student Show

The ICS Show brings you the latest topics that are important to international students from around the world studying in the UK, including employability, developing networks and adjusting to life abroad.

Hosted by Dr. Alex Fenton (Associate Dean), Dr. Trevor Omoruyi (Senior Lecturer), and Elohor Udubrae (University of Chester Graduate), the show will be streaming through the University of Chester – International Facebook Page.

Student Support Podcast

The Student Support Podcast is hosted by the Head of Student Experience and Mental Health Manager at the University of Chester. They invite special guests to join them in conversations about all things relating to student support and experiences. They explore issues relating to mental health, wellbeing and navigating life at University.

In this episode, they chat with Thisanda Ayuka (Student Race Advocate) about adapting to life in the UK as an international student. Thisanda tells us more about what he found challenging about relocating to Chester and shares his favourite things about living and studying here. Thisanda shares his top hints and tips about how to settle in and make the transition to study in the UK as easy as possible.

Listen to the Podcast

The Commonwealth Poetry Podcast

The Commonwealth Poetry Podcast is hosted by Gyles Brandreth (Chancellor of the University of Chester) and his daughter, Aphra Brandreth. The podcast celebrates poetry and the Commonwealth with people from across the Commonwealth and is produced by staff and students from the University of Chester.