Why some universities are two-thirds women
Research finds the gender balance at a university is determined largely by what it teaches: institutions strong in nursing, education and psychology enrol far more women, those heavy in engineering and computing far more men. It is worth knowing when a prospectus quotes a ratio — the number describes the subject mix rather than the culture.
Volunteering is easier to start than people think
A guide to student volunteering that makes a fair point: most people assume it requires a commitment they cannot make, when the majority of placements are a few hours a month and organised through the union. It is also the cheapest way to meet people outside your course. Volunteering and RAG covers the options.
Priced out of parking
Students who drive describe what campus parking now costs in one city, where permits, city centre charges and residents’ schemes combine to make a car impractical. Worth costing honestly before bringing one: for most students the insurance alone exceeds a year of bus travel. Commuter students covers the alternatives.