Earlier this summer, a special group of alumni came back to Salford, nearly 50 years after they first met here as students.

They were a mix of graduates from different courses, brought together back then by living in the same halls or being part of the same friendship circles. Over the years, some had kept in touch, while for others it was the first time seeing each other since graduation. Some travelled from across the UK, and others came from as far as Ireland and Germany, all to reconnect and see what had changed and what still felt familiar.

The group of alumni posing for a photograph overlooking Peel Park

Most of them started at Salford in 1975, with a few joining a little earlier or later, and graduated three or four years afterwards. Walking around campus together felt like stepping back in time, mixed with the excitement of seeing how much the place has grown.

“The tour was a Back to the Future moment. Amazing new facilities yet the campus still has that helpful, friendly atmosphere.”

“The level of investment is impressive. Attractive, modern and practical buildings and really well cared for grounds.”

They were shown around by two of our brilliant student ambassadors, who shared what life is like at Salford now.

“The Alumni Team’s effort in organising our tour is greatly appreciated. It was really interesting chatting to the students about how things have changed.”

The group noticed how the campus feels more connected these days, with more buildings close together and new student accommodation right on site.

“It has much more of a campus feel than in our day.”

But what really made the day special wasn’t just the buildings. It was the people.

“A wonderful visit to our Salford roots. Lovely to see old mates.”

“Excellent trip down Memory Lane in Salford and Manchester. Brilliant to see everyone, old friends and new.”

“I really don’t think our meet up could have gone any better. Amazing how we seamlessly fitted together again.”

Reunions like this remind us what makes Salford special. It’s not just the place, it’s the friendships that last a lifetime.

If you and your old uni friends fancy a trip back too, we’d love to help. Just get in touch with the Alumni Engagement Team at alumni@salford.ac.uk and we’d be delighted to welcome you home.