For most students, the Christmas break is a time to reunite with family and friends from home; for others, it is another opportunity to exercise independence in a new location.
This may seem alien, yet Gabby, who studies at the University of Liverpool, enjoys her new life more than she did in Plymouth.
She said, “The Christmas atmosphere is brilliant, the scenic elements and walks you can have or so different from at home. I prefer where I am now, my house, my room, all give me independence I wouldn’t have if I went home.”
On the other hand, Dan, who studies at Cardiff University, believes coming home was his only option.
He said, “I came from Cardiff for 3 main reasons, to see my family who have not seen since I left, to earn some extra income at the pub I used to work at, and to play for my local rugby team, and see some of the lads I grew up playing with”.
For a time of year focused on family being together, Gabby says her absence isn’t a massive problem in her household.
She said, “My family really encouraged me to go to uni to gain my independence, they really aren’t bothered with me being away from home, they appreciate that I am learning my own thing”.
Christmas no longer looks the same for everyone. Whether travelling home or staying put, students across the UK are redefining what the festive season means to them.