Ok, the uni is spread over four campuses, though from sept two will be closing and a brand spanking new one will open, built on the old airfield.
As mentioned by Rich 'ginger rich' fish, the town leaves a lot to be desired. Strangely the first thing i noticed was the lack of any obvious landmark (eg, church, cathedral, etc) that is visable from anywhere in the town. Coming from a city with a grand cathedral, it did take some getting used to, as did the lack of rivers/lakes etc. Directions usually involve the centrally located asda superstore, the two solitary block of flats, and the galleria.
In terms of services, it seems Hatfield town is basically there to provide students with a large variaty of pizza/curry takeaways, a cinema, supermarket, oh and random beatings/theft/criminal damage. It is however, remarkable easy to escape from, with regular public transport to Watford (clubs), St Albans (pubs, shopping), Stevenage (bowling, clubs, pubs, buffet chinese), Welham Garden City (beautiful city,with lots to do), and London (expensive nights out); all of which are places preferable to be in than Hatfield is.
Ok, the course. am doing a combined modular degree which enables me to study two separate courses, Astronomy and Geology. Sounds good in writing doesn't it? Don't be fooled. There are constant problems with coursework/field trip dates clashing and miscommunication, and the constant impression that the combined modular department (KST) don't have a clue about what you are doing.
The geology course is no more, cut out due to 'budget considerations' and the lack of qualified staff, which means the last few years have seen an increasing amount of apathy from lecturers to that course.
The diamond of the Uni as far as i can see is the Astronomy department. Boasting its own observatory away from light pollution (about 20mins from Hatfield) complete with labs, domes, not to mention its 9 modern telescopes and a radio telescope, all available from your first year. The modules are well structured and well taught, if laden with complex algebra.
The facilities are what persuaded me to come here, Southampton lost out as it only had two 'scopes on top of the physics building in the middle of a built up area, which were only available to final yr students.
The SU
Because of the nature of Hatfield town, Freshers are usually advised to avoid going out to local pubs, unless with a reasonable number of friends.
Instead places to go are St Albans (15min bus ride) and the UHSU bars.
This has the effect of bringing the university population together in the SU bars (the Elehouse and the Font). In other words, the bars are definately the place to be on event nights (Weds & Fri), and you can expect to meet lots of like minded people. Along with reasonable prices, and a good events line up, it is the perfect recipe whether you're on the pull, with mates, or just want to get mashed!
one last point to make: The SU also provides a wide range of clubs and societies, so you'll probably find something to suit you.