Elizabeth Crow's experience with BSc (Hons) Mathematics

BSc (Hons) Mathematics

Hi my name is Elizabeth and I’m currently studying BSc (Hons) Mathematics at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).

What first attracted me to the Maths course here at the University of Central Lancashire was the broad spectrum of the subject we had the chance to study, from applied maths to pure maths, compared to other Universities I had looked at previously. After visiting on an Applicant Day, I knew this was the place I wanted to study.

I decided to take a year out after my A-Levels and returned to study on the Mathematics (with Foundation Year) course. This was ideal, as it not only got me back into studying again, it helped me build a greater understanding for when I went on to the first year of my degree.

I was also eligible for the Foundation Year bursary that the University offers for extra financial support while I complete my degree.

During my first year, I took part in Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) where I was assigned a PASS leader of someone studying my course in a higher year to help support me academically.

It felt great that I then went on to become a PASS leader myself in second year, knowing the difficulties new students can often encounter.

One of my favourite things about the course is the flexibility it offers and the small class sizes. We have a mix of lectures, workshops and lab classes and we often work together in groups to solve mathematical problems. Tutorial sessions involve a one-to-one dialogue with the lecturers, where we prepare in advance to go over anything we’re not too sure about from the classes.

The support I have received from the lecturers and the services at the University has been a huge help to me. As a part-time carer to a family member, I moved from Sunderland to Preston to complete my degree and have had to often return home at a moments notice. The lecturers on the course have been very flexible with my deadlines for assignments, which has taken the pressure off me and still allowing me to succeed. Alongside the Wellbeing team, who have helped me receive a financial bursary, to help cover the cost of my trips back home when needed.

I would recommend Maths at UCLan as not only are the lecturers brilliant, Preston is a great place to live, a medium sized city but compact with all your essentials on your doorstep!