My first impression of Nottingham can be summarised in one word: big. When I arrived on campus for Welcome Week, we drove past the rolling hills that cover University Park as well as countless buildings, both old and new. However, as vast as the campus is, there is a strong sense of community that exists here - especially in the halls. I was lucky enough to be placed in Ancaster Hall, in my opinion the best on campus. The accommodation was excellent, with fairly large bedrooms that surprised me greatly. The food isn't a highlight, but it provides an excellent point with which to bond with your fellow students!
Academically, I have found my studies here to be mentally enriching. The lecturers are specialists in their particular subjects, and (especially in the English faculty) they have a way of engaging you in the course so that studying doesn't become as much of a chore. Socially, there is always something to do. Nottingham isn't a tiny village nor a huge bustling city- it rests in the 'just right' area in the middle. The Student Union here is perpetually working to provide us with entertainment, from pub quizzes to club nights. Also, you can always jetset off to visit a new exciting place on the weekends- Nottingham has its own airport, so it costs very little to go on a weekend break!
On a personal note, I was scared when I first touched down at Heathrow. Really, really, stop-the-world-I-want-to-get-off scared... but as soon as I met some of my new flatmates, it all seemed okay. Having close friends is imperative to fully realising your experience at Nottingham, so don't be afraid to put yourself out there and meet new people. Here's hoping they influence your life in the same positive way my mates influenced mine.
The best of luck to all!