Hi, I’m Millie, a Student Life Content Creator, that has lived local to Reading all my life! Having spent all 20 of my Christmases in the local community I am here to offer any advice if you find yourself doing the same.
What is Reading like over Christmas?
Although you may agree, it’s nice to have a bit of peace and quiet to catch up on work and revision, staying at university over the Christmas break may be a little quieter than normal, with some buildings closing, staff enjoying a well-deserved rest and many students off visiting family and friends, there are many pros and cons to Christmas in Reading. While having a few worries is perfectly normal, there are things you can do to increase your enjoyment of the break. Remember, we have a huge community here at Reading, so you are not on your own!
What is there to do?
Maintain social contact with your friends, peers or meet new friends at some of the below events, without having to worry about rushing off to lectures:
Christmas With The Community– Tuesday 12th December – Free, 6-9pm – Mondial, Whiteknights
Christmas Quiz– Wednesday 13th December – Free, 4-6pm – Carrington 201, Whiteknights
Christmas by Candlelight – West End cast and Live Band – Wednesday 13th December – Tickets £10 – £45, 7:30pm – Reading Minster, RG1 2LG
Christmas Carols Event– Friday 15th December – Free, 6pm – Pam’s Café Northcourt Avenue
Christmas ‘Bring & Share’ Meal– Saturday 16th December – Free, 6-9pm – Park United Reformed Church, RG6 1DN
While campus may be a little quitter the wider community of Reading will be buzzing for the festive season! Remember, you are also not limited to Reading. We are very well connected to other beautiful locations such as; Oxford, Bath and London.
What happens if I get lonely?
Keeping busy, exercising and getting involved in the community should make a real difference to combatting the loneliness. However, with Christmas day itself being a little quitter, it is common for Reading residents to volunteer to spend time with international students over the Christmas period.
23rd-26th December – Host UK Festive Stays (International Students) Free (just pay for travel). See more details here.
Evidently, there’s always something to do and someone to meet, I hope this blog put your mind at rest and gets you excited for the festive season.
If your worries do get a little too much and it begins to make a difference to your mental health, call 0800 023 2466 for free confidential advice 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Merry Christmas!