How important is it to feel that “people like me” study at a university?
How important this is varies by person, but feeling understood and having a sense of belonging can help some students study with confidence. “People like me” may mean similar backgrounds, interests, goals, or learning styles. Consider this alongside the subject, teaching approach, cost, commuting, and support, rather than judging a university only by whether similar students are there. Different perspectives can also be valuable for learning.
Key points
- A sense of belonging and ease in finding someone to talk to may support students’ confidence in learning.
- Similarity can relate to background or identity, but also to interests, goals, and ways of learning.
- Compare this factor with academic fit, cost, commuting, and available support when considering universities.
Things to check
- The student community and support available can vary by university, faculty, course, and academic year, so check official information and open-day materials where possible.