What I Learnt From Three Years as a Brighton Girl Student
Starting my university journey in Covid-19 lockdown, I threw myself into the deep end and said goodbye to my home and found a new one. If you’ve just moved or well into your life here in Brighton, let me share with you my experience and hopefully inspire to make this your city as a student!
Brighton, Brighton, Brighton… you slick, crazy, edgy city. Oh so beautiful, so full of colour, so full of people. I love it here. It’s been my home for three years, counting on to a fourth and maybe a fifth, so I know this city pretty well. Hi! My name is Sophia and I’m 22, a photographer, bass player and actor, and am also in my third year at BIMM Brighton.
I’m what is known as a student around these parts, I flew the nest in 2020, packed up my stuff and moved to the coast. Covid-19 was at its peak but I didn’t let it stop me! No I didn’t. Of course I didn’t know the obstacles that I was going to face but that was a risk that I was willing to take, and oh boy did I get those obstacles.
I went into countless isolations with some of (not all) the worst housemates anyone could ask for. Had a break up with the worst boyfriend in the world. Changed my hair, went blonde, cut bangs… you know the drill, and I think it’s important to note here to embrace the change that comes your way.
Top Tip: Brighton will 100% influence a change in your style, whether that’s your hair, wardrobe, or the sheer amount of jewellery you’ll wear. So get on Vinted and charity shop to your heart’s content because you’re in for a ride!
I struggled heavily with my mental health, feeling so alone, more than ever. I was doing well in my first year at university but that was all that was going for me at the time.
Like the old days, all we had back then all we had was the outside. People would tell you that the beach is your back garden, but in the winter? Nope nope nopedity nope! Winters are hard here, I’m sure as you all know living by the coast brings wind and rain like no other. So make sure that you layer up, especially for those hungover beach days.
As soon as Covid restrictions lifted I knew I needed to get a job. I had to establish some sort of name for myself and socialise with new people. So I got a job at the Brunswick pub in Hove. It was my first hospitality job, and during this time we were only allowed to do outside table service. Weird right!
It was the best decision I made. I met some really amazing people who remain to be my closest friends, and it very much felt like I was in the right place. My experience would’ve been a lot different to yours if you started university out of Covid. Now obviously you can attend freshers and societies that will easily help you to expand your network of friends.
Top Tip: Brighton is a small city, and the longer that you live here the smaller that it will get, eventually everybody knows everybody.
Spring is my favourite time of the year, it’s when the arts festivals begin! Brighton Fringe festival begins and runs from May until June, and then The Great Escape festival runs through a weekend in May. It’s super fun to get involved in both, and you can even attend shows for free!
It’s also particularly fun because of Spiegelpub, the pub tent situated next to Spiegeltent. This isn’t a paid advertisement I just love Spiegelpub. They have cage dancers, fun cocktails and food and it’s just a super fun time. I even met and partied with an A list Hollywood actor there!
Of course in the summer every time you get a chance, throw yourself in the sea. In my first year I was actually kind of terrified by it, especially because I wasn’t confident showing my skin in public.
I remember the first time I went swimming, it was with my good friend (who is male by the way). I resisted hard at first, I mean I wasn't wearing any swimwear and I was very much unshaven so I was a little embarrassed. He eventually convinced me and showed me there was nothing to worry about when he screamed “Sophia it’s Brighton, there’s hair everywhere!” So I went in my knickers.
Top Tip: You’re not a true Brightonian unless you’ve gone in the sea in your knickers.
The city is so beautiful in the summer you will not believe! It’s so colourful and wonderful and in a way, gives you a holiday feeling. My favourite all time summer highlights include going to upside down house, walking past the bandstand when dance classes are happening and of course, spending the day at the beach with my friends.
For spectacular fun at the beach I recommend:
Ridiculously big beach towel that all your friends will be jealous about
Beach games (Although I don’t recommend a frisbee because of the wind)
Picnic (Beware of the gulls!)
Suncream!
Pack of cards (Tarot for your witchy friends)
Beach and/or sea footwear e.g Crocs, Birkenstocks. (The stones will hurt you)
Going to Kemptown or Hove side of the beach if you are looking to be somewhere quieter!
And for extra fun, I really recommend getting a floaty ring for the sea
Written by Sophia Metliss