Venus's BLOG

November 21, 2010 The Information Commons

Back to study pals! Today I´m going to give you a general idea about the IC which I´ve mentioned in my previous notes. You can also find loads of information about it on the University´s web page.

The Information Commons (known as the IC) was based on an idea of the "integrated learning environment" where students can find various source of information in the same room (books, journals, digital resources etc). The IC offers a secure workspace available 24/7 for all University of Sheffield students.

There is variety of learning spaces such as quiet and silent individual study places, bookable group rooms and common spaces furnished with comfortable sofas, plus with desktop PCs provided on desks.

University of Sheffield is one of the first University´s worldwide to provide a facility of this level, which makes them leaders in the terms of student learning spaces.

I find this place suitable for studying, not only for its wide range of academic facilities but also for its live atmosphere. No matter at what time you go there, you´ll see people studying and this encourages you to feel fresh and to keep studying. On top of everything, each floor has been color coded which makes the IC a colorful and interesting place.

October 28, 2010

Music

This one is for the ones who are interested in "music". If you are a music fan you would be more than happy to know that Sheffield has the LARGEST concentration of music studios in the North of England. It´s been known for its well-known bands and musicians.

The photo that I´ve uploaded is from a recording studio in an old factory called "Stag works". This place has a long connection with the music industry in the city. You would be amazed to know that it was the original home of the Arctic Monkeys, Def Lepperd and Reverend and the Makers. Apart from these, Pulp and many other bands have been played and recorded their albums in this place. Fortunately, I´m working on this university project which gave me the chance to visit this place in person and took some pictures. It felt astonishing being in a room full of famous artists´ instruments.

Talking about the Arctic Monkeys, I should mention that they also own a bar in the city which once in while they attend and if you´re lucky you have the chance to meet them!

Stay tuned.

October 12, 2010

Accommodation

Hey everyone!

Here is my diary. I´m hoping to upload a blog every other week and talk about life in Sheffield. Not only and I going to write about it for you, but also I will provide you with set of photos of the city and of what I would consider as interesting.

I´ll start off by telling you about my accommodation. I live in Cratcliffe which is a part of Endcliffe Village, a 15-20 minute walk to the city center. Some would prefer to live in the city accommodation where everything is next door including the IC (information Commons) but personally I love where I live as I love to have my back yard, plus I don´t really find it far to walk to the university campus. In fact I have not taken any bus so far. Endcliffe is a vibrant community and a variety of facilities are available for students. It is located in a wealthy part of Sheffield and has a beautiful environment. Including Endcliffe park, which is few minutes´ walk, there are quite few green spaces for students within the community.

So if you prefer to live where everything is within a minute´s walk and you like to have a busy yet alive atmosphere go for the city center campus, and if you would rather live in a more residential area with your garden where you can spend some time in the fresh air, choose Endcliffe. I will leave the rest for you to explore. Good luck

p.s. The Ranmoore village is only for post grads, I have not been there but from what I´ve heard it´s a perfect place for students who would like to live in a nice and quite area.