Having grown up less than an hour away from Bath, Tanisha talks about how her love for the city made studying at the University of Bath an easy choice; especially when she found the BSc (Hons) Social Policy at Bath course, which 'clicked' with her interests.

The right option on my doorstep

I’m from Wiltshire, so Bath has always felt local to me. My family often visited the city when I was younger, and I loved its friendly, safe atmosphere.

It’s a beautiful city; not too big or chaotic, but lively with plenty to offer. When I started looking at universities, I was already familiar with Bath, but I hadn’t realised how good its rankings were, especially for social policy. Knowing I would enjoy living here made the decision even easier. 

The campus felt perfect for me. I love how it’s high up on a hill, creating a sense of community. It is big yet walkable, and the town is close for exploring.

Speaking to current students at an Open Day helped me picture myself here. They shared their experiences about the course, student life, and opportunities, which left a lasting impression. 

Discovering social policy

At A-level, I took economics, politics, and history. These were subjects I enjoyed because they linked to real-world issues.

I considered studying law, but it didn’t feel right. A friend studying social sciences introduced me to social policy, which involves things like society, data, and how governments and organisations drive change. It clicked with me immediately. 

I’m fascinated by how policies shape lives; from tackling inequality to supporting diverse communities. Bath’s course stood out for its real-world focus and good blend of theory and practical skills. For example, we have been studying the Disability Act and analysing its impact on educational inequalities. The evidence-based approach, using qualitative and quantitative analysis, equips us to shape effective policies. 

Modules on international development tie into my interest in global perspectives. My family is from Sri Lanka, so understanding how policies affect different countries has been fascinating. 

Life as a social policy student 

The transition from Year 1 to Year 2 brought a noticeable increase in workload, but the academic staff have been incredibly supportive. Office hours are great for clarifying coursework and discussing challenges, helping me stay organised. 

The course is engaging, with well-structured lectures and smaller seminars for deeper discussions. The smaller class sizes make it easy to ask questions, which I quickly grew comfortable with. 

The library is my favourite study space. I have found a quiet spot on the fifth floor where I can focus, especially when preparing for essays or exams. 

Living in Bath 

In my first year, living on campus helped me settle into university life, with everything close by. Now, in my second year, I live just outside the city with friends. It’s been an adjustment, but it’s also a step towards independence. 

Bath is a fantastic student city with great cafés, like the Courtyard Café for brunch. During Christmas, the market is a highlight -last year, my housemates and I enjoyed it, along with a Christmas lunch and Secret Santa. 

I’ve joined societies like the Social Policy Society and the Sri Lankan Society, which has been great for connecting with others and taking part in events like a cricket match between universities. Societies are a brilliant way to meet people outside your course and explore new interests. 

Thinking ahead to my placement year 

One of Bath’s biggest draws was its focus on professional placements.

The placements team has been incredibly supportive, helping refine my CV, explore opportunities, and prepare for applications.

I’m excited to gain hands-on experience next year and apply what I’ve learnt so far. 

Tips for prospective students 

If you are considering Bath, attend an Open Day - it’s the best way to get a feel for the campus and city. It’s also good to speak to current students for insights you won’t find online. 

Starting university can feel overwhelming, so take advantage of all the support available. Bath offers help with everything from academics to welfare. Also, get comfortable with digital tools before starting; almost all work is laptop-based, which was a big adjustment for me. 

Make the most of your time here. Bath has so much to offer, from its beautiful architecture to its incredible student community. Whether through your course, societies, or exploring the city, there is always something new to experience.