Experiences at the University of Glasgow: A Comprehensive Review
The University of Glasgow, founded in 1451, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Scotland. However, my personal experience with this institution, both as an undergraduate and a postgraduate, provides a mixed account. This review will detail both the positive and negative aspects of my time at the university, focusing on the academic and social experiences.
Undergraduate Experience
As an undergraduate fresh out of high school, I had never been truly challenged academically. Upon entering the University of Glasgow, I was thrown straight into a demanding environment. The lack of pastoral support was a significant drawback. Many students coming from Glasgow and the surrounding areas were local, while I was a commuter from 30 miles away. This setup made it difficult for me to get the necessary support and feel integrated into the university community.
The university is known for its great facilities, but the massive lecture hall class sizes (250 for computer science, similar for first-year mathematics) were impersonal. I felt like faceless drones rather than individuals. When I began to struggle, my adviser advised me to “suck it up and get on with it” rather than offering any substantial help. These experiences led to my eventual withdrawal after 18 months. I transferred to a smaller university, where I studied law and experienced much better academic support and success.
Postgraduate Experience
After a successful postgraduate experience, I returned to the University of Glasgow to pursue a Master's degree. This time, I found the institution much more supportive, with staff who were more attentive and a smaller class size, which contributed to a better academic atmosphere. The restructure into four enormous colleges did not address the pastoral support concerns, however, which I believe need to be prioritized.
City Life
The city of Glasgow is known for its rich cultural life, offering diverse activities for personal development. Despite this, the city is not fully multicultural, and there are concerns about the faculty's approach. Some faculty members have been accused of xenophobia and poor communication, leading to disastrous outcomes. There is often negative reinforcement and underhanded tactics used rather than productive dialogue. The sight of faculty members staring rather than engaging in conversation is unfortunately common. Additionally, there is a habit of gossiping among limited circles and defaming individuals, especially those with a solid track record. It is disheartening to witness faculty members who preach self-reflection yet are allowed to remain entrenched in such negative behaviors. Such behavior persists even years after graduation, despite having significant flaws and failing their students.
Conclusion
Overall, my experiences at the University of Glasgow have been a mix of challenges and success. While the university offers excellent facilities and academic resources, the lack of pastoral support and the often negative approach of some faculty members remain areas for improvement. Glasgow's city life provides ample opportunities for personal development, but a more inclusive and supportive academic environment would undoubtedly enhance the university's reputation and student experience.