Brighton Through My Eyes
Isaac’s First-Year Story
Brighton’s pebbled seafront, colourful lanes, and creative vibe greeted me like a warm hug. As a first-year Jewish undergraduate, I swapped familiar surroundings for this buzzing seaside town, full of colour and unpredictability. My journey started with a simple goal: find a place to call home, build a community, and stay true to my traditions.
My First Steps in Brighton
The moment I stepped off the train at Brighton station, I felt something shift. The salty air, the distant music from a street performer, and that unmistakable buzz, Brighton was alive. In my first week, I had fish-and-chips by the beach and danced at an open-air gig near the Palace Pier.
Though known as a tourist spot, Brighton is undeniably a student city. With two major universities, safe bike lanes, generous student discounts, and year-round cultural festivals, it quickly became clear: I’d landed in the right place.
The Search for a Place to Call Home
Finding housing felt daunting at first, but then I found StudentAccommodationGuide.com. It laid out everything, area guides, price breakdowns, and amenities. After some virtual tours and serious checklist-making, I went for a four-bedroom flat near London Road. It had a local vibe, quick access to campus, and, most importantly, great coffee nearby. My flatmates, two Brits and an Aussie, made the space feel welcoming from day one.
Campus and Community
Within weeks, I joined the Jewish Society. Friday-night Shabbat dinners, Hanukkah parties, and late-night conversations gave me a sense of belonging. I also joined the Chess Club, where matches were intense but friendly, and the Media Society, where I explored podcasting and video editing.
Outside of campus, I got involved in beach clean-ups, art fairs in The Lanes, and poetry nights at cosy pubs. Brighton always had something going on, whether it was a vintage market or an indie film premiere.
Staying Grounded in Faith
One of my biggest concerns was maintaining my Jewish identity while living independently. Thankfully, Brighton’s Jewish community is active and inclusive. I attended synagogue for High Holidays and joined communal meals that reminded me of home.
While there weren’t kosher restaurants nearby, local supermarkets had everything I needed. I learned to cook my favourite dishes, shakshuka, matzo ball soup, and invited friends over. Sharing those meals became a cultural bridge.
Beyond the Lecture Halls
I made time to explore the city. The Lanes were my go-to for vintage finds and hidden cafés. I cycled along the seafront from the Pier to Hove, soaked up the sun on Madeira Drive, and visited Brighton Pavilion more times than I’d admit. My student railcard took me on day trips to Lewes, Eastbourne, and even London.
Keeping an Eye on My Budget
I stuck to a tight weekly budget. I planned meals, shopped at local markets, and used apps to split bills. Nights out happened mostly on student discount days, and I always booked trains during off-peak hours.
Accommodation cost me about £135 a week, plus around £45 for groceries. With smart planning, I managed to experience the best of Brighton without going broke.
What Future Students Ask Me Most
What’s student life like in Brighton?
It’s a mix of chill beach days and an exciting urban scene. Always something to do.
Is Brighton friendly for international students?
People here are warm, open-minded, and the universities offer great support.
How do Jewish students find a sense of community here?
Join the Jewish Society, look out for events, and get involved with local synagogues.
How much will I spend on accommodation?
Shared places go for £125–£145 per week. It depends on location and amenities.
Where should I look for housing?
StudentAccommodationGuide.com helped me find my place quickly and confidently.
My Brighton Chapter: Just the Beginning
My first year in Brighton was more than just lectures and deadlines. It was about self-discovery, late-night debates, sunrises by the sea, and traditions kept alive thousands of miles from home. From housing to holiday celebrations, I found support in all the right places.
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