Manas on Studying English Literature and Finding Community at Bangor

Manas, from India, is pursuing his PhD in English Literature at Bangor University. Having completed his master’s degree in Bristol, he was drawn to Bangor for its natural beauty, friendly community, and affordability. “As someone who did my master’s in a city that’s a lot more expensive, Bangor is definitely more affordable,” he says. “Even with a part-time job, you can cover rent and expenses comfortably.”

Finding Community and Balance

Manas is part of both the Cricket and Boxing societies, which have helped him meet new people and stay active. “Societies here take students from the absolute basics,” he explains. “Even if you’ve never tried a sport before, they’ll train you until you can play decently. It’s a great way to make friends.”

The second day of the socials fair during Freshers’ Week at Bangor was a busy one.

Although Bangor is a small city, Manas finds it lively. “It’s a very small town, but it’s a very lively one. There’s a vibrant nightlife and lots of hikes to do. The pier here is really pretty,” he says.

When he’s not working on his PhD, Manas enjoys playing piano and singing. “There are spaces in the university and even in student halls where you can play music,” he says. “You can be as loud or as quiet as you want to be.”

He found it easy to connect with people through clubs and societies. “People are very hospitable here,” he says. “Every Wednesday is a social evening when societies come together, and it keeps your social life very alive.”

Support for International Students

Manas also works part-time in the International Education Centre, where he’s seen firsthand how much support Bangor offers. “The university makes a lot of effort to accommodate international students,” he says. “Whether it’s help with visa extensions, assignments, or just feeling homesick, there’s always someone to talk to.”

Sunset in Bangor, as seen from the seafront.

Academic Pride

His proudest moment so far came during his first-year progress review. “I didn’t think I was doing enough,” he admits. “But when the review came, I exceeded all expectations from my supervisors and the chairperson. It reminded me that I was doing well and that my hard work was being recognised.”

What Manas values most about Bangor is the opportunity it gives students to grow. “The staff are supportive, and the societies give you space to rediscover old passions,” he says. “I hadn’t played cricket for years, and now I’m back at it, getting better every week. It keeps that passion alive.”

Watch Manas’s story to hear how a love for literature — and a small city by the sea — led him from India to Bangor University.