Student Life Welcome Edition 2022

STUDENT Welcome Edition 2022

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

WELCOME WEEK AND FRESHERS YOUR UNI FAMILY TRANSITIONING TO LEARNING AT UNI

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If you have any questions before you start with us, you can call our hotline on 0333 241 6929.

Call centre opening times: 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 4:30pm on Fridays.

The call centre will close at 4pm on Friday 16 September. admissions@plymouth.ac.uk plymouth.ac.uk Student Services +44 (0)1752 587676 studentservices@ plymouth.ac.uk University of Plymouth Drake Circus Plymouth Devon PL4 8AA United Kingdom

Follow us on social media @PlymUni

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Inside...

Welcome Edition

HOT TOPIC P. 4 Our plans to welcome you to campus in September A new chapter begins

Congratulations! You’re receiving this Welcome Edition of Student Life as you’ve successfully secured your place with the University of Plymouth. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to know about being a student at Plymouth, from settling into halls to exploring your new home!

Your student life starts here.

FEATURES P.24 Is university a new era for your parents as well as you?

How are your parents feeling about you going to uni?

P.26 Welcome to your SU Discover your Plymouth family P.34 Getting to know your city The best places to visit with your new friends

Meet some of this issue’s contributors:

P.40 Your Student Hub Looking after your wellbeing P. 50 Eat well on a budget From tasty recipes to top tips for keeping costs down Emi Dowse UPSU President 2021–22 Emi introduces you to the Students’ Union and shares advice about making the most of your university experience.

P. 9

Charlie Bromage BA (Hons) Architecture student Charlie shares his experience of starting university, the welcome and support he received and his tips to get you started. P.10

Atarah Bradshaw Mental Health Advisor As a Plymouth graduate, Atarah shares her passion for the University and how the Mental Health team can support you through university. P.44

W ELCO M E TO T HE FA M ILY Enrol now Make it official!

Download the CampusM app

Enrol now to gain access to core University services and facilities. Find all the information you need about starting with us in September.

You can log in once you have enrolled. The app is your guide to student information and campus life. Scan the QR code below to download it.

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THE GUIDE P. 14 Your first weeks at uni Tips from our students on how to settle in

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WELCOME TO THE UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH 2022 We are excited to welcome new and returning students to campus for September 2022. Find out about our plans and the amazing opportunities that await you.

Whether you’re starting an exciting new chapter with us, or returning to campus for a new academic year in 2022/23, we want you to succeed and make the most of university life.

There is so much for you to experience at university and we aim to help you shape your future far beyond your chosen subject – giving you unique experiences and skills that help you stand out.

We are excited for the start of the academic year where you’ll spend time learning and developing your skills – and what’s really important is that from your lecturers, tutors, learning technicians, to your faculty admin staff and the advisors in our Student Hub, there’s a whole team of people here, ready to help you achieve your ambitions and support you every step of the way.

WELCOME WEEK

& Freshers

The week before teaching starts is Welcome Week, also known as Freshers Week, Arrivals Week or Induction Week. This week is designed to help you find everything you need for the best possible start to your student life. During Welcome Week, we’ll help you settle in quickly and easily. You can visit our friendly Arrivals Lounge, set up to help you with any questions you have, or just with settling in. Our cafés will be open to pick up a coffee, and the campus will be buzzing with people joining us for the first time, or returning to Plymouth. This is a really exciting week totally dedicated to you. Lots of Student Ambassadors will be available across the campus to help you with anything you need.

As part of your Welcome Week, our SU puts on Freshers, a whole series of events, fairs, welcome activities, drop-in sessions and entertainment, where you can join your favourite clubs and societies, buy things for your room, connect with other students, join in with the special evening entertainment or simply explore the city and meet new people at your own pace.

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ACADEMIC INDUCTION Academic induction is an essential part of joining your course. From early August, your new course will post an academic induction schedule which tells you key information about your programme, such as any books or equipment you might need to buy, and details of your timetable during September. Most importantly, academic induction is your chance to meet your new tutors and coursemates for the first time, and to get stuck in to your course.

YOUR STUDIES When you choose to study at Plymouth, you get so much more than a great qualification and an experience in one of the most amazing student cities in the UK. There’s lots to navigate and we’re here to make sure that you get the best possible university experience. Our teaching and research is on-campus and in person. We’ll help you engage in real-world problem solving, giving you the skills we know employers value. University is also a social time.

We want you to have as much live interaction with your lecturers and your coursemates as possible — to learn alongside one another, develop new relationships and support one another.

HOW WE TEACH We teach a huge range of subjects, from design to dentistry, and maths to marine biology. Each subject has its own unique mix of classes and teaching formats, varying from lectures to practical assessments, seminars, tutorials, group work, projects and independent study.

Our courses are divided up into modules, some compulsory and others optional, allowing you to specialise and tailor your learning to the path you want to follow. Some of our courses also include the opportunity to go on a placement or spend some time studying abroad at one of our partner institutions.

LEARNING TO LEARN We want our students to come out with new skills and feel more independent, confident and resilient. You’re not just learning about your subject, but how to learn and work more effectively. Every student is assigned a personal tutor for academic and personal support, so there is always someone around for you. Our award-winning Writing Café is available every day during term time to help you express your ideas more clearly and achieve to the best of your potential. There’s also SUM:UP, a friendly drop-in support service to help students with maths and stats. We have a team of dedicated information specialists who can give advice on everything ranging from what to expect from your teaching and assessments, looking after yourself in an online world, to finding specialist library journals and resources, or understanding copyright issues and everything in between.

STUDY AND SOCIAL SPACES Our campuses are friendly and fun places to be, with plenty of great spaces to work, relax, meet and socialise with friends. If you’re looking for somewhere to study, our library has silent work areas and relaxed spaces for group work, while there are plenty of open access computer stations in the library, as well as social and study pods located around the campus.

Our lively cafés and Students’ Union (UPSU) are great spaces for relaxing and meeting friends.

You can enjoy the Plymouth sunshine on the SU roof, or find a spot on one of the grassy landscaped areas or even take a ten minute stroll up to Plymouth Hoe, and enjoy fantastic sea views!

There are also fieldwork, trips and opportunities to undertake work-based learning, all of which give you practical handson experience which can make a big difference to your future career, and are also a great addition to your CV and online profile.

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TAKING CARE OF YOU GROWING AND CHANGING AT UNIVERSITY For many of us, coming to university is an opportunity to branch out and experience new independence. You’ll have lots to manage in your day-to-day life. As well as your studies, you could be exploring your exciting new city, searching for work placements, or dealing with the admin that comes with living away from home. It’s important that you know that there is support available to help you take control of your wellbeing and get answers to any questions you may have. Whatever your question, our friendly advisors are here to help and can refer you to specialist support if you need it.

Our dedicated Student Hub is your one-stop shop for all non-academic queries. You might want help with your student loan, to check your study timetable, find out more about volunteering, need help with your LinkedIn profile or want to share a business idea – our advisors, based in the library, can help you with all of these and more.

If you’re in our managed halls of residence, our specialist halls officers are also on hand to support you with everyday questions as you settle into university life. Our SU Advice Centre can help with practical advice on everything from budgeting tips and money, to navigating the city and its nightlife, to dealing with your landlord.

The Careers Service can help you find flexible part-time work to help you fund your studies or help you with your career planning – supporting you to figure out your next steps and make the right choices for your future.

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It’s crucial to look after yourself as you study. There are evidenced links between good mental health and sport and exercise.

Regular exercise can help to maintain personal wellbeing and help to mitigate the effects of mild to moderate depression and anxiety. Through UPSU, our on-campus gym and wider sporting connections throughout the city, the University offers a range of fitness sessions and classes. There are also numerous sporting clubs and societies to get involved with.

Our Student Hub is also on hand to provide a range of individual support. Wellbeing has always been, and continues to be, a priority for us and if you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Our Student Services team are on hand for support, including our dedicated Mental Health team. We have specialist staff who run drop-in counselling services and confidential telephone and face-toface appointments for a range of individual services to support you.

SUPPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Plymouth is a home away from home for our international students and we have a thriving international community made up of 2,000 students from over 100 different countries.

We are so pleased to be able to welcome our international students on to campus for this academic year and are here to support you every step of the way.

As an international student, you can access help and advice from the International Advice team, find out more about your visa from the UKVI Compliance team or improve your English language skills at the English Language Centre.

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Your University Family Interacting with others and making friends is such a crucial part of your university experience, which is why it is very important that you feel supported by us and each other.

As well as coursemates and housemates, you can start by joining one of our many SU societies, from Anime and Afro Caribbean groups through to the Harry Potter Society, Vegan Soc and Zoology! What’s more, if you can’t find a society for something you’re interested in, we’ll help you start one!

Your Students’ Union The University and the Students’ Union work closely to support students and ensure that your voices are heard. Independent advice is always available at the SU. The University and UPSU are partners in our Student Charter which ensures that we provide a safe and supportive environment and we keep students’ success at the heart of everything we do.

FIND OUT MORE Need more information? Our teams are on hand to help.

Please contact International Student Advice or email studentservices@plymouth.ac.uk If you’ve not managed to visit Plymouth yet, it’s not a problem! Why not take a virtual tour of the campus and surrounding city to get ready for exploring when you arrive.

VIRTUAL TOUR

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TRANSITIONING TO LEARNING AT UNIVERSITY We know that going to university may seem like a big step and that moving from learning at school to university may feel like a challenge. You will be a much more independent learner, with responsibility for your own learning, deciding how, when and what you learn. The start of your university experience will take all of this into account, settling you in gently, and we will be right here to support you all the way!

Support Timeline Pre-enrolment

Induction and beyond

Throughout the year

• Receive 1:1 support from your personal tutor

• Receive guidance on how to access University facilities that will help you with your course

• Check out online resources

• Attend a library induction • Have access to a wide range of online study resources

• Try out study skills groups and peer learning

• Don’t forget to access the Student Hub for all your needs (find out more on pages 40/41)

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS Head to Unibuddy and meet our students. You can chat to them and ask them questions about their course, what studying at university is really like and their future aspirations.

You can also read blogs written by our students to gain a deeper insight into the areas you’re interested in. You can search for topics such as: course content, facilities, assessment methods, and support, health and wellbeing.

CHAT NOW

The most important thing to remember about starting university is that you are not alone. It is a big step, but it’s also an exciting one, and one that is leading you to your dream career. Our friendly community extends far and wide and we are here every step of the way to support you to succeed.

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Student Hub

Former Students’ Union President

EMI DOWSE shares her experience and advice STARTING UNIVERSITY I was equally excited and terrified when I came to university. The first night was scary, not knowing whether I would make friends or enjoy it, but after a couple of weeks of settling in, I loved it! I was lucky enough to have fantastic flatmates who got along great despite all of our differences. Despite my anxieties, I pushed myself to try new things by joining student groups at the SU, where I made some lovely friends who I still talk to today. I did miss my family though, especially my pets, but I just made sure to call them often.

WHAT TO EXPECT AS A NEW STUDENT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH Most students will move to university the weekend before induction, giving you a chance to get to know your housemates and explore the city a little. Your first week will be your induction, which is your opportunity to get to know the university and your course better. During induction week, the Students’ Union hosts a wide

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range of events and activities to help you find a community. There are different fairs where you can join sports clubs and societies, and events during the day and well into the night. After that, you will start your course and begin to settle.

STUDYING AT SCHOOL vs STUDYING AT UNIVERSITY The main difference between studying at school and university is the level of independence you have. Whether within your studies or at home, deciding what you eat every day or when you can go out. You are required to be more proactive and self-motivated. University is less structured than school, and you will likely have fewer lessons, but this is because you will need to read up around your lectures, review your notes and actively pursue learning. Although exciting, this can take a little getting used to, so don’t worry if it takes you a little while to adapt.

SUPPORT FROM THE SU The Students’ Union is here to support you throughout your entire university journey. When you first start, we support you by helping you make friends and find your community. We do this by offering sports clubs, societies and volunteering opportunities, and putting on events to help you meet new people.

We also have an independent advice centre who can advise you on student finances and money, housing and issues relating to your studies. Finally, the SU has representatives (that’s me!) who are elected by the student body to represent you. We represent you at a university level as well as locally and nationally.

ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS Don’t be afraid to be yourself. I know it sounds cheesy, but the wonderful thing about university is there is someone for everyone, and it’s just about finding your people. I did this through joining clubs and societies, and I can honestly say it is one of the best aspects of coming to uni. The second is don’t feel pressured into drinking or think it is socially required at uni. Lots of people don’t drink and they still have a complete university experience. Finally, don’t be afraid to reach out for support.

Find out more about how our Students’ Union can support your student experience:

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HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS CHARLIE BA (Hons) Architecture

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE PLYMOUTH? The main thing that led me to pick Plymouth was the family-like atmosphere I felt in the architecture studios when visiting on an Open Day. The tutors and students were really welcoming and caring of your work, which is something I’ve been lucky enough to receive during my time here.

SUMALKA MPhil/ PhD Business with Management WHAT WAS YOUR APPLICANT JOURNEY LIKE? I applied through the International Admissions team where I had to submit a few documents to get my unconditional offer. The application process was very simple and the Admissions team was very helpful throughout. They were always an email away whenever I had a question.

WHAT SUPPORT DID YOU RECEIVE? WHO WOULD YOU TURN TO FOR ADVICE? If you think you need support with regards to general aspects, Student Services is where you will go. I really recommend the Listening Post if you feel like you need to talk to someone and also the Friendly Tables they are doing in the University cafés now. I think it is a great initiative for students to mingle and make new friends.

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DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS? Plymouth is a lovely city. The University is placed in the middle of the city and the city centre is just five minutes away which is very convenient. Everything you need is just a five-minute walk away, so the best advice I can give is to invest in a good pair of trainers or boots because you will be walking more than you think!

Check out Sumalka’s blog on accommodation.

WHAT’S THE TRANSITION LIKE TO UNIVERSITY? For me, the difference between school learning and university learning has been a positive change. Having different modes of learning in the form of lectures, workshops and tutorials provides enough structure to help you keep on top of things, but also plenty of freedom to work on things independently. The new way of learning isn’t something to be afraid of; making sure that you make the most of time spent with tutors is important as they won’t necessarily be the ones chasing you.

WHAT WERE YOU MOST CONCERNED ABOUT BEFORE YOU CAME TO UNIVERSITY? HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THAT WHEN YOU ARRIVED? Lots of degrees involve brand new subjects and can seem worrying for new students, however in my case the transition was made really easy for us as new first years. In many courses

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JOYITA BSc (Hons) Psychology

WHAT WAS YOUR APPLICANT JOURNEY LIKE? The application process, though initially felt scary, turned out to be quite easy.

The Admission team’s friendliness, patience and professionalism helped.

I also was able to email my faculty of interest beforehand. first year grades don’t contribute to your final grade, meaning you have a whole year to find your feet in your new course and in the new ways of learning.

WHAT SUPPORT DID YOU RECEIVE? WHO WOULD YOU TURN TO FOR ADVICE? The best place to turn to for support when just starting university is probably your tutors. I found all of my first year tutors were really approachable and always around to help with anything you might need assistance with. Making good friends on your course is also a great idea.

There will be plenty of times when asking a friend is the best place to go for advice with help for work or if there’s something you don’t quite understand.

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WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO STUDENTS COMING TO STUDY WITH US? My advice to prospective students would be: “Don’t be afraid to take the first step. A window of opportunity and growth awaits you.”

WHAT WAS THE TRANSITION TO UNI LIKE? Once at university, it took me some time to adjust as a mature student with a young family. In addition, it also took some time to get used to academic writing and coursework submission. The good news was, I was not alone. The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a Writing Café and peer supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university, therefore they are always offering support when needed. Lecturers also have office hours that you can book for 1:1 support.

In addition, each student is allocated a personal tutor who will support their journey throughout the course of the degree.

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GETTING TO KNOW Coming to university may seem daunting when you’ve been used to sixth form or college. In particular, the structure and language used may be very different so we’ve produced a simple guide to the University of Plymouth to help.

YOUR FACULTY OFFICE – HOW WE CAN HELP YOU During your first few weeks at University you will spend some time finding your way around the campus and the city as well as engaging with some of the different services which the University offers. One of the most important service centres you will need to discover is your Faculty Office. Every student of the University belongs to a faculty – this isn’t always obvious to many new students but it is important to know which faculty you belong to so you can access the various services on offer.

HOW DO I FIND OUT WHICH FACULTY I BELONG TO? Check out the list of faculties and schools on the next page to see which faculty you will belong to. Alternatively, looking up your course on our website will confirm which faculty you are in.

WHAT SERVICES DO FACULTY OFFICES OFFER?  General enquiries – your Faculty Office is staffed by friendly, welcoming staff who have been serving the needs of our students for decades. They have a wealth of knowledge about almost every aspect of student life. If they can’t answer your question or fix your problem, they can point you to the right place.  During induction – as a new student, there are several important tasks which you need to complete before teaching commences.

During these important first weeks, your Faculty Office can help you with these tasks, such as:

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 University card and photo

upload queries  Online enrolment queries  Official letters – do you need to

prove you are a UoP student?  How to access and understand

your teaching timetable.

 Assessment criteria – how is

your work assessed and how are your marks calculated?  Exam arrangements.  Changes to your modules or discuss course transfers.

 Your physical and mental welfare –

your Faculty Office is often the first port of call if you find yourself in some difficulty. Our staff will listen and advise you of the options you have and the services you can access.

If necessary, they will refer you to the Student Hub or another central service. In other cases, they will take care of the following situations:  Extenuating circumstances – if for example you fall ill, have an accident or suffer a bereavement, we can advise you on making a claim for extenuating circumstances, which takes these circumstances into account and recognises the impact they may have on your studies.  Student support meetings – if you are having difficulties with workloads or deadlines are piling up, we can talk to you confidentially about your progress and take action if there are circumstances which are hampering it.  Academic regulations – your academic progress is governed by a set of regulations that cover all aspects of academic life. We can advise you on aspects such as:  Coursework submissions – the majority of coursework is submitted digitally. However, some submissions are submitted physically via your Faculty Office. We can also advise you on coursework extensions.

FACULTY CONTACTS Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business Located on the ground floor of the Roland Levinsky Building. Open from 08:30 to 17:00, Monday to Thursday and 08:30 to 16:30 on Friday.  +44 (0)1752 585020  AHBAdmin@plymouth.ac.uk Faculty of Health Located on the 4th floor of the Rolle Building. Open from 08:30 to 17:00, Monday to Thursday and 09:00 to 16:30 on Friday.  +44 (0)1752 585332  rollestudentreception@ plymouth.ac.uk Faculty of Science and Engineering Located on the ground floor of the Smeaton Building, Room 15.

Open from 08:30 to 17:00, Monday to Thursday and 08:30 to 16:30 on Friday.  +44 (0)1752 584584  science.engineering@plymouth.ac.uk

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Any Questions?

If you have any questions about your course or enrolment before you join us, you can call our hotline on 0333 241 6929.

A member of the team will put you in touch with your faculty.

Our call centre will be open until Friday 16 September.

Open Monday to Thursday 9am –5pm and Friday 9am–4:30pm.

OUR STRUCTURE: Being a large university, Plymouth has a lot of subjects and various activities in addition to teaching degrees. Our structure is made up of faculties, schools, research institutes and professional service areas.

FACULTIES There are three faculties, supported by 13 schools (from 1 September 2021).

• F aculty of Arts, Humanities and Business Plymouth Business School Plymouth Institute of Education School of Art, Design and Architecture School of Society and Culture • Faculty of Health Peninsula Dental School Peninsula Medical School School of Biomedical Sciences School of Health Professions School of Nursing and Midwifery School of Psychology • Faculty of Science and Engineering School of Biological and Marine Sciences School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences RESEARCH The University focuses its interdisciplinary research activities on global challenges through three Strategic Research Institutes: • Marine Institute • Sustainable Earth Institute • Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research.

In addition, we have a Doctoral College which works with staff and students across all areas of the University’s research community.

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THEGUIDE YO UR FIR ST W EEKS AT UNI – W H AT’ S I T R E ALLY LIKE?

The words ‘first day of uni’ have been written in bold and underlined in your calendar for weeks – and probably on your mind for months.

F Are you excited at the prospect of this

new chapter of your life but also feeling a bit nervous? If so, you’re far from alone.

All over the world there are new students who are ready to start that life-changing journey of discovery, but equally apprehensive about leaving life as they know it behind.

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You won’t be on your own as the Students’ Union and your tutors and peers will all be there to help. We’ve spoken to some of our students to get answers to the questions that may be playing on your mind to find out about their experiences.

Victoria Adams BSc (Hons) Psychology

Erin Black BA (Hons) Media Arts

Sam Castlehouse LLB (Hons) Law

Abigail Galbraith BSc (Hons) Psychology

Heather Barter BA (Hons) Media Arts

Melissa Pirie BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences

Julia Glukhikh LLB (Hons) Law

Masud Saeedi BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy

Jonathan Hill BSc (Hons) Geography

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15 Top tips from other students:

Freshers’ activities

The great thing about university is the coming together of people from all walks of life with different interests and values, so whatever you are into, you will find like-minded people to share the experience with, and the first weeks are the time to find them.

Of course, you don’t have to attend the welcome activities but it really is the best time to meet people in the same situation as you – just don’t avoid it because you think you won’t fit in. Why not take a look at the timetable for the week and make a note of the things that really interest you; after all, you don’t have to do it all.

“You get thrown into it straight away. It’s a big jump between A levels in the sixth form and then going to university – the campus was so busy, it’s a whole other life. I’d seen university campuses on American TV and films. A highlight for me was coming here and realising that what you see in the films is really what you see here!”

Sam Castlehouse, Law

1: Remember that everyone is in the same position as you, and there will be someone like you around, whatever you’re into.

Masud Saeedi

on a few doors. It’s also a good idea to hang out in communal areas instead of just your room so you get chatting to your flatmates – when you are in your room, why not prop your door open for a bit so people know they can stick their head in and say hi?

Once you’ve got the basics out of the way (“Where are you from?” and “What course are you studying?” will come up a lot), why not go exploring?

Head out with your flatmates to pick up some shopping – there is always something you’ve

2: Follow social media for updates from the SU, societies and the University.

There’s so much going on all the time.

Julia Glukhikh 3: Start conversations, bring games to help break the ice, and food to share is good! One of my flatmates brought doughnuts, which we all appreciated.

Abigail Galbraith

How do I make friends?

The best way? Get out of your room and introduce yourself!

That cliché of everyone being in the same boat is true – everyone feels awkward about it, so ignore the nerves and knock

forgotten to pack – and get your bearings.

“On the drive to university, I was fretting about how I would approach people. But once my flatmates and I had created a stupidly strong bond in our first afternoon together, we went on a hunt for more friends – knocking on other flat doors, introducing ourselves. The key is just to go for it.”

Victoria Adams, Psychology “One of my best friends is someone I spoke to on Twitter before uni started. We arranged to meet on the first day so we would have someone to sit next to and we’ve been friends ever since.”

Erin Black, Media Arts “I met people through my course, my flatmates and I made friends with the people in the flat next door to us, and I joined the archery club. All the current students were really friendly and easy to talk to, which obviously makes you feel so much better when you’re just starting in a new place. Remember that everyone is in the same position – they’re all having to go through those awkward first conversations too – you just have to be brave and talk to people.”

Abigail Galbraith, Psychology

F O UR T HIN GS TO D O DUR IN G INDU C T I O N W EEK

Take a tour

There are organised tours from campus and you could arrange your own in your halls to help you navigate your new city and get your bearings. It’s worth visiting Dartmoor, exploring the city and checking out the beaches.

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Find a job

Visit our Careers Service in the Charles Seale-Hayne Library, where you can find part-time jobs while you’re studying and start to build up that CV.

Have a cream tea!

Just make sure you do it the Devon way and put the cream on first – jam first is the Cornish way.

Sports & societies fairs

Explore the 180+ sports clubs and societies, and meet new people and learn new skills away from your studies.

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What happens on moving in day?

Let’s be honest, most rooms in halls consist of a bed, a desk, a chair and a wardrobe (and possibly an en suite bathroom depending on your halls), and a shared kitchen. However, for many students, this will be your first taste of living away from home, so it’s pretty exciting. One of the best ways to settle in is to make your room feel more homely and personal. You might bring a few things from home, like your favourite bedding, pictures or photos, or you may prefer to hit the shops and test your interior design skills.

A good tip is to put up some string lights or buy that lamp you’ve had your eye on, so you can avoid the bright overhead lighting when chilling in your room.

“The day I moved in was nerveracking, but the moment I arrived I relaxed. My Hall Officer was ready and waiting with a massive smile on her face. She showed me to my room and welcomed my parents and me very politely! There were hundreds of nervous faces swarming in and out.

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They could potentially be my new best mates, but I didn’t even know their names yet!”

Victoria Adams, Psychology

“You’re in such a tight-knit community in halls, so it is really easy to meet people. On the first night the University gave us pizzas. There was an inter-halls social in the first week and Halloween pumpkin carving.

There’s a free movie night every week. There’s always something going on!”

Heather Barter, Media Arts

“The thought of moving into halls was a bit daunting, but my flatmates were all very friendly and everyone was so welcoming. After just a few days I had met so many lovely people that it all felt far less scary. As well as making friends with my flatmates, I met a lot of people while I was carrying my belongings in, as I had a few quirky bits and bobs with me that were curious enough for people to ask me about them. So, my advice is to take some interesting, talking-point objects to halls with you!”

Melissa Pirie, Human Biosciences

What if I hate my halls?

Give it a chance – and by this we mean a couple of months, not a couple of days. It’s always a bit weird when you move into halls, but people generally settle in once they’ve got used to their new surroundings.

An advantage of living in University-managed halls at Plymouth is that we match you with flatmates based on the personality questionnaire you completed as part of your application, so there is every chance you will hit it off with all your flatmates. However, if after a couple of months you’re not happy, talk to your Hall Officer.

What if I’m not moving into halls – will I ever make friends?

Halls are just one way to meet new people, so if you’re living at home or in private housing you’ll have plenty of other opportunities to make friends, including the welcome activities, lectures and through the Students’ Union (UPSU) clubs and societies. Throw yourself into events that catch your eye and you’ll be constantly meeting new people.

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17 “I definitely felt apprehensive. I’m from Plymouth and I chose to live at home, so I was worried that would make it more difficult for me to make friends. But in a way this worked in my favour, because I could use my local knowledge to help my new friends.”

Erin Black, Media Arts

“The department had organised some activities.

After lectures we were able to socialise with our coursemates so that we could get to know each other.”

Julia Glukhikh, Law

University clubs and societies

This has to be one of the best things about university – the opportunity to have a go at, or be part of, pretty much anything you can imagine.

From Disney to People and Planet, to surfing and rugby, and everything in between, you are bound to find something that interests you. And if you have an idea for a club or society that doesn’t already exist, then why not set it up yourself?

You can find out about all our clubs and societies on the UPSU website (upsu.com) and during the welcome events when you arrive.

“I joined the Hockey Society in the first week, which was the best decision I ever made. The actual hockey is a minor part of being a member! More friends, more socials, more giggles – what else could you ask for? You must, must, must join a society. Then you have three groups of friends: flatmates, coursemates and society mates!”

Victoria Adams, Psychology

“The SU runs sports and societies, and I joined the University Rugby team. It’s nice to have something like the SU that’s specifically designed to look after the welfare of the students when you are new to a city. I found them to be very welcoming, informative and integral to the great experience I had during my first few weeks at University. They do so much to help students fit into their new environment through events and trips.”

Jonathan Hill, Geography

“I joined the Basketball Society, as previously I had played for a local club. There are so many societies to choose from. So whatever your interest, you’ll find something for you, and if not, you can start your own society. Remember, even if you are not really a person who tends to socialise and go out, or you don’t drink, there will be someone like you around – trust me.”

TOP TIPS FOR MOVING OUT Feeling a bit homesick when you arrive at university is totally normal. For many students, this might be the first time you’ve been out in the world on your own, fending for yourself, doing your own laundry. To help you settle in, use these top tips from students and you’ll be feeling at home in no time.

1. Don’t beat yourself up about it At some point, everyone will feel a little homesick. There is nothing to feel embarrassed or ashamed about. Leaving home is a big step and you are going to have all sorts of thoughts creeping up on you – some exciting and some scary. You don’t need to add to those by being unfairly harsh on yourself about how you’re feeling.

2. Make a new home

Start by making your new living space your space.

You’re going to be spending a lot of time either chilling or studying in your room, so you need to get it just the way you like it. Buy some decorations or bring some objects from home. In the first few weeks of term there will be poster sales and plant sales on campus.

Before you know it, you’ll have turned your plain room into a cosy nest that you can relax in.

3. Get offline and explore

While it may be tempting to remain safely locked up in your room, you have a brand new environment that’s waiting to be explored. Go out and take pictures. Visit the local landmarks and bring back a trophy or souvenir from your travels. Then you’ll have something interesting to share with friends and family when you do go back on Facebook.

4. Get organised

The first few days and weeks are probably going to be the most hectic, and it’s here that you may feel a bit lost. By sorting your weeks out with a simple timetable, you’ll feel like you’re more in control of what’s going on.

5. Look after yourself

Your new-found freedom and independence will be an exhilarating experience, but just remember that you still need to look after yourself.

Make sure that you are eating well (the vending machine doesn’t count) and try to get plenty of sleep. Being run down can lead to feeling overburdened, so take some time to make sure that your body is being looked after, too.

6. Talk to people

This can be the hardest one, but you need to try and remember that your new flatmates and coursemates are in the exact same position as you are. Sometimes, people are just waiting for someone to approach them, so be brave and be the person to make that first step. Your new best friend may be one conversation away.

Masud Saeedi, Physiotherapy

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WHAT TO BRING with you to uni Ne w st uden t ch ec kli st:

gramme Che ck out you r academ ic inductio n pro t you view you r onli ne To help you prep are , we recommend tha ctio n Wee k. cou rse inductio n sch edu le prio r to Indu Com plete onli ne enrolment (OLE) ntia l first step to being Com plet ing onli ne enrolment is an esse out h and will ena ble offic ially part of the Uni vers ity of Plym eta ble for the first time you to gain acc ess to you r cou rse tim have one ). or act ivate you r stu den t loan (if you Uplo ad you r pho to ity Card, which will be The pho to is requ ired for you r Uni vers pos ted to you r term time address .

Uplo ad you r ID nat iona lity of all of our We nee d to confirm the iden tity and doc ume ntation so we stu den ts. You will be ask ed to uplo ad olment. can validate you r iden tity prio r to enr che cks Inte rnation al stu den t Righ t to Stu dy t wit h a stu den t visa, den stu al tion If you are a new inte rna t you will be ask ed to the re are a num ber of doc ume nts tha t to Stu dy che cks . uplo ad so that we can car ry out Righ Rec eive you r Uni vers ity Card vers ity Card to you r You r Fac ulty Office will pos t you r Uni pleted OLE, uplo ade d term time address onc e you have com This will allo w you to a pho to and we have che cke d you r ID. ce to Uni vers ity building s acc ess library fac ilities, gain ent ran ing our recreat ion and confirm pro of of elig ibili ty for join ser vice s.

Che ck out you r timeta ble ent, you will be able to Onc e you have com pleted onli ne enrolm bling page. acc ess you r timeta ble from the timeta

Student Life Welcome addition.indd 18

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PACKING CHECKLIST When you move to uni, there’s so much more to consider than starting your course and making new friends. Moving into student accommodation is a big step, so make sure you’re fully prepared. Be ready for Freshers Week with our university packing checklist!

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS Passport and/or driver’s licence University acceptance letter and other uni documentation Student loan letters Bank card and bank details Student discount cards

KITCHEN Cutlery and utensils Crockery Pots and pans Washing-up liquid and sponges Tupperware containers All the food you may need – include items that keep well

MISCELLANEOUS NONESSENTIALS (BUT NICE TO HAVE) TV (and TV licence) Books Decorations for your room Games console Pack of cards or board games Snacks

ELECTRICALS Your laptop Mobile phone (don’t forget the charger!)

Any extension cables you might need Headphones Hair dryer/straighteners

BATHROOM Toothbrush and toothpaste Towels Shampoo and conditioner Shower gel/soap Toilet rolls

HEALTHCARE BEDROOM Laundry basket Coat hangers Clothes airer Storage boxes Bedding

STATIONERY AND STUDY ESSENTIALS Pens and pencils Post-it notes Notepads Planner Study books

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Personal medication and prescriptions First aid kit (pain tablets, plasters, allergy tablets, etc) Glasses and prescription Multivitamins Sanitary items

CLOTHING Casual clothes Shoes Underwear Pyjamas and loungewear Fancy dress (especially useful for themed nights out!)

Winter coat and any other jackets you may need

“Accommodation is an amazing experience. Where else do you get to share a flat with six strangers, soon to be best friends, while living off super noodles and cups of tea?

Don’t forget an extension lead – you will love yourself when you are able to charge your phone across the entire room with a 6ft charging lead. Also, clothes hangers – you have a LOT of clothes, so bring extra hangers – especially when loads snap as you’re frantically trying to put together a fancy-dress costume!”

Lauren, BA (Hons) Acting

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Finance Timeline Step 1

Step 2

First payment in September around three days after you enrol

Step 3

You can always check the status of your loan:

Step 4 Student Life Welcome addition.indd 20

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Check out our students’ top tips!

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“I calculated my monthly expenses and how much on average I would spend a month, to figure my monthly outgoings and how much money to leave myself with as my monthly budget. Overall, budgeting will be different for everyone depending on income and lifestyles. However, definitely ensure you are putting money to the side for rainy days but also don’t forget to treat yourself as you only live once!”

Shaina, BA (Hons) International Business graduate

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BUDGETING TIPS As the loan is paid in three instalments, it is up to you to budget this so you don’t get caught out!

Our current students have suggested the following budgeting tips.

1. DON’T SPLASH OUT TOO MUCH ON ACADEMIC BOOKS i

4. TRY NOT TO EAT OUT TOO OFTEN

but when you do, always try to use vouchers and discount codes.

5. DOWNLOAD THE UNIDAYS APP AND BUY A 16–25 RAILCARD

in the first year – look out for second year students selling their old books.

as this will save you lots of money when travelling and shopping.

2. USE A BUDGETING APP

6. DON’T KNOCK SUPERMARKET BASICS

if you struggle to keep tabs on how much you’re spending.

3. A PART-TIME JOB

can be a great experience if you can manage your time well while you’re studying.

Student Life Welcome addition.indd 22

until you’ve tried them. Rather than buying branded foods, go for cheaper alternatives.

7. HAVE A SEPARATE ACCOUNT

to your loan and rent so you can see what you are spending your money on and what is coming in and going out.

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“There are lots of opportunities for finding a part-time job in Plymouth whether it be in the city centre or even working for the University as a Student Ambassador, meaning you can choose the type of job which will best fit your schedule.”

Gaurav, Bachelor of Dental Surgery graduate

If you need any advice about finance, our support team at our Students’ Union will be more than happy to help.

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IS UNIVERSITY A A NEW ERA FOR YOUR PARENTS AS WELL AS YOU?

s you’ve got closer to summer and ramped up your preparations to leave home, your parents may have started to act a bit differently. While you are starting to get excited for uni, it’s worth remembering that your next chapter is a huge milestone for your parents too. After 18+ years of parental responsibility and trying to support you as best they can, they’re starting to realise that you will be moving on to your university journey very soon.

Throughout your university application journey, your parents may have been involved or supported you through the process.

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Whether your parents are laid back about the situation or not, it is going to be a big adjustment for them, too. Suddenly, you are

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not there 24/7 – and your absence will certainly be felt. They may help with the big move by driving you to uni, taking you for a big food shop and helping you get your bearings around your new city, but they won’t be finding it easy.

Remember that initially, they may be messaging and calling you a lot in the early weeks. Ultimately, they will accept that you’ve gained your independence, but there are some things you can do to help them feel a little better in the transition.

You can help by involving them; ask them to help you get packed, drive you there and get settled in – it will make all the difference to you both. Once there, stay in contact with them, reassure them you are doing fine and staying on top of your studies and you will all find a ‘new normal’. Here are some other tips on how you can prepare for this milestone together.

“You’re both entering a new chapter in your lives, and it will take a while to find a balance that works for you.

Try and keep them in the loop but ensure they understand you are getting on with your new life and there is so much to do in the first couple of weeks.”

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Your parents may feel the same way, but to avoid any confusion and to make things easier for you both, talk about what you want to do when you travel and arrive.

Make sure you have a plan for the day to have the most stress-free experience.

The aftermath The minute they leave, it’s all down to you, but you don’t have time to dwell as your new flatmate wants to chat followed by checking out your neighbours, before settling into your new room. But for your parents, they’re most likely facing a long drive back home – without you. Maybe take the time to drop them a text to say you’re settling in and doing fine?

Staying in touch You’re both entering a new chapter in your lives, and it will take a while to find a balance that works for you. Try and keep them in the loop but ensure they What to do with your room understand you are getting on Have you thought about what is with your new life and there is so going to happen with your room at much to do in the first couple of home? Discussing it before you go weeks. will stop any misunderstandings later. You may imagine it remaining The time will come when you’re untouched, ready and waiting if just feeling a little homesick and you decide to visit, but they may you want to ask how the dog have ideas about redecorating is doing without you – in the and turning it into a hobby room meantime, just reassure them you for whatever new interests await are okay occasionally. them after your departure. Make sure that you are on the same page so there are no shocks and surprises when you go home next!

Getting dropped off You’ve probably imagined your first day and gone through all the scenarios in your head, with the preferred being them taking you there, unpacking your boxes, taking you out for lunch, buying you the essentials and any new bits you want for your room and then leaving.

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WELCOME TO YOUR

When you join the University of Plymouth, not only are you enrolling as a student but you also become a member of the University of Plymouth Students’ Union (UPSU), and with that comes a wide range of benefits and opportunities that you have unlimited access to.

W

hen people hear the terms Students’ Union or SU, what springs to mind for many is a bar and cheap pints. While we do have an award-winning venue, social space and bar to unwind in after a day of lectures, what we are and what we can offer you go so much further than those four walls. Most importantly, we are a student-led organisation – we are a union of students.

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As a member, your SU belongs to you, and every year you vote for four University of Plymouth students to become full-time Sabbatical Officers. These four representatives lead the organisation, speak on your behalf at high-level meetings and work to implement the changes that you want to see to improve your student experience.

Our main focus, and our reason for existing, is to support the wellbeing of every student studying with the University. We want to make sure you have a successful, fulfilling and rewarding time both at University and in the future. We do this through helping you to be empowered, learn and grow; be socially fulfilled; feel more financially secure, and know you are supported and cared for.

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Empowerment

As an organisation that is led by you, the students, we work hard to ensure that you have the opportunities available to feel empowered and to make your voice heard. We support more than 600 elected parttime Student Representatives who listen to and collate your feedback to share with University staff to shape and improve your academic experience.

Collectively, we represent your views in University decisions, as well as local and national topics. We campaign for you on issues you care about, as well as providing opportunities for you to meet new people, develop your skills, campaign for change and try something new.

As your SU, we also recognise the importance of developing skills outside your course curriculum to help you get ahead when your time at university comes to an end. That’s why we offer free and discounted training opportunities on a range of topics that will help you in your future career. We’re also passionate about developing the skills of our dedicated volunteers through training for club or society committee members, student representatives and our members of student staff.

Social fulfilment

Starting university is effectively starting a new chapter of your life, and this can be daunting – for many, starting university means moving away from home, adjusting to a new environment and/or preparing to find a new group of friends. If this has crossed your mind, you are not alone.

We work hard to build opportunities for you to meet new, like-minded people. We support 50+ different sports clubs and 100+ societies, each of which is its own individual

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Our main focus, and our reason for existing, is to support the wellbeing of every student studying with us family ready to welcome new members with open arms. If you currently have a particular passion or interest, check out the full list of clubs and societies on our website at upsu.com If you’re undecided, then you can try our Give it a Go programme, browse our volunteering opportunities – which can be tailored to fit around your studies – or consider joining one of our academic societies to meet other students from your course outside of the lecture hall.

Finally, our building, located in the heart of campus, offers you a social space to catch up with friends or grab a coffee, plus a busy events schedule throughout term time to keep you entertained.

Financial security

There are no two ways about it: starting university is an amazing opportunity but it’s also a financial (and personal) commitment. We want to ensure that you feel you’re getting the experience that you deserve for the best possible value.

This year alone our independent Advice Centre has saved students over £120,000 by helping them to submit claims, access appropriate benefits and navigate through their student finance applications.

Furthermore, if you’re looking to earn while you learn, we employ over 500 members of student staff in a variety of roles from running our award-winning bar, preparing coffee in our café, serving customers in our shop or providing technical assistance at our events.

Support

Our student population is a diverse community of individuals, coming from many different walks of life, each with passions and needs but brought together and connected by one institution. As such, we work to provide platforms and forums in which you can tell us how you need us to support you. Being a part of the SU gives you access to many different types of support.

There may be times during your studies when you need help; maybe things haven’t gone to plan or you just need that extra bit of support or guidance. This is perfectly natural, and we are on hand when you need us. As a member of your SU, you have free access to our confidential Advice Centre and our team of dedicated advisors.

Your SU Advice Centre is completely independent from the University, so you can be confident that the advice you receive will be impartial and will not be shared unless absolutely necessary as set out in our privacy statement. The team offers support on accommodation and financial, academic and wellbeing issues, and will work with you to find a path forward.

The best thing about becoming a member of the Students’ Union is that you don’t need to do anything: no sign-ups, no membership fees, no renewals*. You can choose how you want to interact with us *Once enrolled, you will be given the option to ‘opt out’ of membership to UPSU. If you choose to opt out of becoming a member, you won’t be able to purchase event tickets, access support services or join clubs and/or societies through our website.

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Find Your

UNI FAMILY Starting university can be daunting. Perhaps you’re moving away from home for the first time or maybe you’re returning to your studies after a break of a few years, or even decades.

Finding a sense of belonging and a community in which you feel comfortable and confident can be instrumental to making your time with us the best it can possibly be. We can help you to find your Uni family.

With our campus situated a short walk from Plymouth Sound on the beautiful south coast of Devon, when you come to study at the University, you’ll have access to a wide range of water-based activities to truly make the most of ‘Britain’s Ocean City’.

So, how can we help? Whether you’re interested in representing the University of Plymouth at a regional or national level in your chosen sport, volunteering your time to contribute to the local community, finding like-minded people to socialise with or connecting with other students on your course – we have something for you.

Finally, if you want to try a new sport, our Intramural Sports programme lets you and your friends play weekly sport in a fun and friendly atmosphere where taking part is sometimes more important than winning.

There are a number of semi-competitive leagues and tournaments played between students from the University, and teams can be made up from halls, coursemates,, clubs, societies or a group of friends.

Sports clubs Here at UPSU we support over 50 different sports clubs. These clubs offer you an opportunity to join a community where you’re guaranteed to have something in common, with a chance to play sport in a social and/or competitive environment.

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Societies Our 100+ student-led societies are a major part of what we are about. From knitting to Nerf wars, Pokémon to printmaking – whatever your interests you’re bound to find

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Find out more

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For a full list of clubs and societies, please visit upsu.com

a society that meets your needs. If you’re looking to meet students on your course outside of a classroom setting, we currently support more than 40 academic societies, which aim to connect students and offer social and development opportunities.

For those students who are looking to connect with students from a similar cultural background – perhaps you’re an international student who wants to find a community that offers a home away from home – our range of cultural societies may be able to help.

Societies exist to meet your needs as students and for you to meet likeminded people in your chosen area, whether that be an activity, culture, faith or belief, hobby or even just to try something new.

“Through the society I have learnt to work with a range of students outside of my course (Medicine) and have thus made strong friendships which have led me to new opportunities which I wouldn’t have otherwise got involved in.”

Member of the Wilderness and Expedition Medicine Society

Volunteering opportunities There are many different types of opportunities available if you’re looking to volunteer, with flexibility and commitment levels to suit you and your studies. Maybe you’d like to contribute to running a charity shop, get stuck in with helping wildlife conservation, or assist in coaching football sessions?

Perhaps your heart lies in fundraising for local, national and global causes?

Plymouth Raise and Give (RAG) is a student-led group running fundraising projects for chosen charities which are selected each year. The group also offers fundraising adventures each year, which could see you taking on Everest Base Camp, cycling from London to Paris or trekking Machu Picchu.

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Representation Our dedicated group of student representatives is the voice of the student body across the University and Students’ Union. There are several student representative roles, each with a specific remit; however, their collective aim is to champion the student voice and create positive changes to the University experience for all students.

If you’re passionate about listening to students and campaigning for change, then take a look at the range of student representative roles available, including Course Reps, School Reps, Faculty Reps, Part-time Officers and Sabbatical Officers.

Give it a Go Starting university is a great opportunity to explore your interests and take part in new and different experiences. If you’re not sure what you’re interested in, or you’re looking for a way of getting involved without the initial commitment of joining, why not Give it a Go? The Give it a Go programme offers a range of different sessions throughout the year – run by clubs, volunteers, qualified sports instructors and society groups – where you can come along and do just that, give it a go: try something new, meet new people and learn new skills.

If you love the sessions, great!

Perhaps join a club or society and pursue your passion that way. If you don’t love it, no problem! Try more of our Give it a Go sessions until you find an activity that you love.

All our groups are student-led, meaning you – the students – shape and build them, with the support of a dedicated team of staff members.

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Key questions Q. Where would you most like to be right now?

A: Eating fruit on a balcony in the sun.

Q. What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

A: My addiction to social media.

Q. What’s your most annoying habit?

A: Taking photos ALL the time!

Q: If you could have any superpower which would you choose?

A: T eleportation! I could travel EVERYWHERE! Q. Describe yourself in five words.

A: Passionate, determined, flexible, creative, approachable.

SABBATICAL OFFICERS UPSU President 2022 – 23

DANIELLA MARLEY What made you choose to study at the University of Plymouth?

Coming from Plymouth originally, I never actually planned to study here! I originally wanted to study far away from my home town but as a carer it made sense to stay close to the person I care for. I am so grateful for this as I’ve made the most incredible friends and had the most amazing experiences.

What made you want to become a Sabbatical Officer?

A healthy mix of passion and spite. I’ve always wanted to make positive change and address issues at the University but the main thing that pushed me into running was actually the people who didn’t believe in me! I wanted to prove that anyone can be a part of student politics, even students like me. I’m the first foundation year student president!

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If you could go back to your first day of Uni, what one piece of advice would you give yourself?

University is about more than just your course! When I joined, I signed up for plenty of societies, extra talks, experiences, and work placements but honestly if I could change anything – I would have done more! Every single society and club has a different vibe with different friendly faces and they’ve all been so welcoming. Try a bit of everything, no one will mind if you find out that it’s not the right thing for you.

What’s your favourite memory of your whole time at the University?

Campaigning for the Student President election! It was way outside of my comfort zone – lots of posters of my face, public speaking, and canvassing on campus by talking to big groups of people I didn’t necessarily know – but it was definitely my highlight.

The SU and the students around

Quick-fire quiz Sweet or savoury?

Savoury Cats or dogs?

Cats Call or message?

Call Quiet night in or night out?

Night out Tea or coffee?

Tea Night owl or early bird?

Both Summer or winter?

Summer 100% Eat out or takeaway?

Eat out TV show or movie?

Depends

me were so supportive, I met some great people, became closer with lots of different clubs and societies I hadn’t been a part of during my year, and I definitely grew as a person!

What’s a song that sums up you or your time at Uni and why?

Foundations by Kate Nash. I had really bad anxiety when I started university but you’d never guess it now! Thanks to all the lovely supportive friends I made, I gained the confidence to face my stage fright. Foundations was the first song that I performed at a karaoke social and it was even the first cover I played when I performed on the stage at Jam House.

Ideal holiday: city break or middle of nowhere?

City break

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Key questions Q. What did you want to be when you were growing up?

A: A pilot. Aeroplanes flew past my house frequently and, at night, my brother and I would stay up to make wishes as they flew past.

Q. If you could go back in time to any point in history, where would you go?

A: 2 1 May 2008. The day Manchester United won the UEFA Champions League against Chelsea in Moscow.

Q. If you could have any superpower, which would you choose?

A: To have no human go to bed hungry.

Q. Describe yourself in five words.

A: P rogressive, free-spirited, focused, resilient, team-player.

Q. Tell us your best joke.

A: I want to be cremated as it is my last hope for a smoking hot body.

VP Wellbeing and Diversity 2022 – 23

JOSHUA BOROKINNI What made you choose to study at the University of Plymouth?

First and foremost, I was attracted to the faculties and scholarship of its psychology department.

Secondly, I was attracted to the vast presence of the mall, seas and parks in Plymouth. More importantly, I was keen on exploring a city outside of my home country.

What made you want to become a Sabbatical Officer?

I believe in making people happy by helping them execute their vision(s). This has made me interact with many home and international students across different faculties.

This has exposed me to the gaps that students face in embracing wellbeing and diversity.

Also, studying a postgraduate degree as a first-generation migrant and international student gave me first-hand experience of the challenges and uncertainties that come with being a new student.

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Personally, I saw how much minority populations struggled to integrate into the school system and larger community. I saw this as an opportunity to create change and I believe the Sabbatical Officer position will give me the opportunity to fill these gaps and create an optimal learning environment for all students regardless of their sexuality, disability, and/or origin.

If you could go back to your first day of Uni, what one piece of advice would you give yourself?

Never put a limit on what you can achieve. Always believe you are more than enough and ensure you are not standing in the way of your own progress. Do not look back unless you want to go in that direction.

What’s your favourite memory of your whole time at the University?

Getting to meet and talk with students during the campaigning week of the SU elections.

Quick-fire quiz Sweet or savoury?

Sweet Cats or dogs?

Cats Call or message?

Call Quiet night in or night out?

Quiet night in Tea or coffee?

Tea Night owl or early bird?

Early bird Summer or winter?

Winter Eat out or takeaway?

Takeaway TV show or movie?

Movie Ideal holiday: city break or middle of nowhere?

Middle of nowhere

What’s a song that sums up you or your time at Uni and why?

It is the first song on my morning playlist – Read All About It by Emeli Sandé. I play it repeatedly on days I do not feel like myself, when I am researching for assessments, and on days I need to reflect. The words mean everything to me, especially the line that says, “it is time we get some airplay of our version of events, there is no need to be afraid.”

More than anything else, these words hold a place in my heart, particularly because when I was at my lowest, it helped me find the strength in my mind and power in my voice.

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Key questions Q. What did you want to be when you were growing up?

A: S omeone who found the cure to diseases and illnesses.

VP Education 2022 – 23

TONARI ARIKEKPAR What made you choose to study at the University of Plymouth?

My good friend told me about the University of Plymouth and then I found out it was highly ranked for scientific research. It seemed like a good fit since I wanted to do a masters degree in biomedical science. Also, Plymouth as a city seemed to be a beautiful and peaceful place to build my new home away from home.

What made you want to become a Sabbatical Officer?

If you could go back to your first day of Uni, what one piece of advice would you give yourself?

Quick-fire quiz

Be bold and confident. It can feel intimidating at first, but you’ll find your balance. There is nothing to fear – you are going to be just fine!

Sweet or savoury?

Savoury

What’s your favourite memory of your whole time at the University?

Quiet night in or night out?

Quiet night in

My first time at the University campus after I resumed my studies was like a breath of fresh air. After the interruption of lockdown, everything felt new and refreshing.

I saw the need for better representation of the diverse student body at the University, alongside the need to create better awareness of the educational and mental health resources available. This led me to the Students’ Union and I discovered that there were positions for individuals to become a part of creating the solutions.

Cats or dogs?

Dogs Call or message?

Message

Tea or coffee?

Hot chocolate!

Night owl or early bird?

A bit of both!

Summer or winter?

Winter Eat out or takeaway?

Takeaway TV show or movie?

Movie

Q. Who would play you in a film of your life?

A: Moana.

Q. If you could have any superpower, which would you choose?

A: Unconditional love.

Q. Describe yourself in five words.

A: C urious, passionate, hospitable, introverted-extrovert, playful.

Q. What’s your most embarrassing moment?

A : Falling over while crossing a water drainage in front of the cafeteria at Uni. I got up so quickly and walked off without looking at anybody’s face.

What’s a song that sums up you or your time at Uni and why?

A ‘Don’t Worry About a Thing’ cover.

I learnt during my time here that worry and fear only suck up your energy and leave you feeling drained, anxious and unable to function at your best. So why waste time worrying at all when you can get up and try your best? You only truly fail when you refuse to try.

Ideal holiday: city break or middle of nowhere?

City break

@jaystoneuk

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Key questions Q. What did you want to be when you were growing up?

A: When growing up, I had the desire to be one of two things: the first being a professional footballer which was a very ambitious dream. After this, I always spoke about becoming a vet as I’m passionate about wildlife and nature.

Q. Describe yourself in 5 words A: F ocused, active, practical, compassionate, altruistic.

Q. Where would you most like to be right now?

A: E xploring south-east Asia and the Southern Hemisphere.

Q. Who would play you in a film of your life?

A: Owen Wilson.

VP Activities 2022 – 23

MITCHELL LAUGHTON What made you choose to study at the University of Plymouth?

I chose to study here because I liked the feel of the city as well as being close to the sea which gave me the option to have a wellearned break in a nice location between my studies.

What made you want to become a Sabbatical Officer?

By being a part of the men’s football team, as well as sitting on the committee for two of my three years here, I always had the ambition to give other students coming through the University an even better experience to the one I had. I am someone who has a desire for helping others.

If you could go back to your first day of Uni, what one piece of advice would you give yourself?

is in the same position as you, you’re all feeling the same, so throw yourself headfirst into the university experience because you only get to go through it once.

Quick-fire quiz Instagram or Facebook?

Instagram Cats or dogs?

Cats

What’s your favourite memory of your whole time at the University?

My favourite memory would have to be winning Varsity as captain of the men’s football team. It gave me a great sense of achievement and was extremely rewarding seeing my team’s faces when we won.

Call or message?

Message

@jaystoneuk

Quiet night in or night out?

Quiet night in Tea or coffee?

Tea Night owl or early bird?

Night owl Art or music?

Music Eat out or takeaway?

Eat out TV show or movie?

TV show Glamping or camping?

Glamping

The advice I would give myself is to understand that everyone on that first day of university

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G E T TI NG TO KNOW YOU R C IT Y The University of Plymouth is pretty unique, as we’re a campus university in the heart of the city, just a short walk from the sea.

This will give you plenty of opportunities to explore, but we thought we’d give you a head start and highlight some of the best things to see and do, both in Plymouth and the surrounding area.

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1. THE HOE

Four very famous bottoms are celebrated on Plymouth Hoe, belonging to none other than the Beatles. The cheeky copper casts mark the spot where the foursome posed for a photograph in 1967 while filming Magical Mystery Tour. Obviously, balancing your butt on such an iconic seat (and tweeting the pic with #beatlebums) is a must. Students have ranked the Hoe and the stunning views of Plymouth Sound as their number one spot to spend time.

From walking to roller-skating and eating an ice cream to barbecuing, this really is a place you will feel at home.

TOP THINGS TO DO ON YOUR DOORSTEP

Find out more: plymouthhoewaterfront. com

From literary heroes to the Beatles’ bums, lidos, lobsters and food markets, there’s plenty of culture and coast to keep you entertained in your downtime.

2. THE BARBICAN

If you’re after Italian, Greek, Himalayan, Mexican or Thai food… in fact pretty much any type of cuisine, you’ll find it at the Barbican and Sutton Harbour. There are plenty of places to sit outside in the nicer weather and watch the world go by. The cobbled streets of the Barbican hold charming independent shops and galleries.

You can also go and check out the National Marine Aquarium and stop for coffee and cake at one of the many coffee shops. This is also a great place to come for a night out, with a real holiday vibe in the summer, particularly over a bank holiday weekend. After the Hoe, this is our students’ top place to spend free time.

Find out more:

barbicanwaterfront.com

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“One of the best escape places I have found, good for my body, mental health and a good way to do social distancing is… the sea. I go swimming every day in the waters of Plymouth Sound.”

3. OPEN WATER SWIMMING

You might think ‘wild swimming’ is a recent craze, but locals have been bathing among Plymouth’s open water lidos and wild water spots for decades. With Plymouth’s art deco Tinside Lido ranked as one of the best in Europe, and dozens of other spots to take a dip, the city is leading the way in open water swimming. You will often see wild swimmers in the waters of Plymouth Sound, even in the depths of winter, as you walk along the waterfront, and you can head towards Dartmoor for some fresh water river swims, too.

Louise, Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology graduate

Find out more: plymouthactive.co.uk/ centres/tinside-lido

5. ROYAL WILLIAM YARD

This chic, urban peninsula of shops, eateries and loft-style apartments was once a victualling yard for the Royal Navy. Now offering a self-serve wine bar, a rustic bakery and galleries of contemporary art, it is a masterpiece of urban regeneration.

4. BOAT TRIPS

If you haven’t got sea legs before starting at university, you sure will by the time you graduate.

Plymouth boat trips depart from the Barbican and go to places like Mount Edgcumbe, Cawsand and Calstock. For an extra adrenaline hit you can try catching a 70lb conger eel or porbeagle shark when deep-sea fishing with Plymouth Fishing Charters.

Find out more: plymouthboattrips.co.uk

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“I love everything about Plymouth.

I would have to say that the Barbican and Royal William Yard are my favourite places to be.

There are so many cute independent stores and coffee shops.”

The best way to appreciate the formidable granite buildings is to catch a ferry from the Barbican and walk around the perimeter via the new section of the South West Coast Path. You can see across to Drake’s Island, Mount Edgcumbe and the breakwater from the Yard, and on the first Sunday of every month you can feast at the Good Food Market and stock up on yummy supplies to see you through your studies.

Find out more: royalwilliamyard.com

Melanie, Digital Media Design graduate

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A DAY OUT WITH NEW-FOUND FRIENDS Once you’re settled and have made new friends for life, you might want to go exploring a little further afield together. As well as being in that unique position of being a campus university in the city, the University is also perfectly located to benefit from everything Devon and Cornwall have to offer. What most people travel to in order to enjoy for a holiday, will be your new home for at least the next three years – excited?

6. BIGBURY-ON-SEA BEACH

No doubt part of the charm of Plymouth is its coastal location and proximity to several beaches.

Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and just a 30-minute car ride away, Bigbury-on-Sea beach is one of South Devon’s most loved places to spend the day. A sandy expanse joined by a causeway to the iconic Burgh

Island, accessed by sea-tractor, is a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Not only is it a mecca for watersports, such as surfing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, but thanks to the direct access to the South West Coast Path it is also a paradise for walkers. There is something for everyone, from swimmers and surfers to nature-spotters, history buffs, artists and Agatha Christie fans.

7. ST IVES

If you’re happy to travel a bit further, then you have all of Cornwall to explore, with an escape to St Ives a must. Artists are drawn to the area’s magical light, and the quaint streets are packed with galleries. There’s also the iconic Tate St Ives gallery, right on the beach. Traditional fishermen’s cottages nestle around the picturesque harbour, where the smell of Cornish pasties promises a reward after a hard day of swimming in the sea and lying on the warm sand or a brisk walk along the coastline in the colder months.

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8. EDEN PROJECT

Explore rainforests and Australian gardens, see temporary exhibitions and watch gigs by some of the biggest names in music at this collection of biomes set in the Cornish countryside.

If you’re feeling brave, you can soar over the domes on on one of England’s longest and fastest zip wires, or plummet at 50mph from 65ft over a cliff edge on a giant swing! Afterwards you can eat some of the plants you’ve seen growing in the domes at the on-site restaurants and cafés serving healthy, sustainable food.

F ind out more: edenproject.com

10. TOTNES

Find out more: visitdartmoor.co.uk

9. DARTMOOR

Dartmoor National Park is a big space, so to see some of the best it has to offer head to Burrator dam and reservoir. From there, see dramatic tors, moorland, wild ponies and other wildlife. Sheeps Tor, one of Dartmoor’s most imposing tors, dominates the landscape.

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Dartmoor is great for the adventurous and it would take more than your three years at university to fully explore! It’s the perfect place to hike, wild camp, cycle, go climbing and bouldering or horse riding, or simply get away from it all. There are also some great places hidden away to get a bite to eat and drink of something local.

In Totnes, the locals pride themselves on being a bit different.

A town full of character, set on the picturesque River Dart, its cosmopolitan and diverse population makes for an exciting calendar of cultural events, including a literature festival and regular jazz nights.

The town has a rich history and lots of Saxon architecture, with ancient passageways to lose yourself in. Take a heritage walk so you know what you’re looking at before scrambling to the top of the ramparts of Totnes Castle for panoramic views.

Find out more: visittotnes.co.uk

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11. DARTMOOR ZOO

Dartmoor Zoological Park is the real-life inspiration behind the Hollywood film We Bought a Zoo, starring Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson. It’s popular with animal lovers, including students on our BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare course.

“We did many trips to different zoological parks for research,” says graduate Matthew Dark. “Dartmoor Zoo is small but fascinating. It’s great for a day out with the family, or even just to relax and get away from the stress of day-to-day life.”

Hidden on the borders of Dartmoor National Park, the 33-acre woodland zoo has a wide range of exotic and native animals, including the widest variety of big cats in the South West.

Find out more: dartmoorzoo.org.uk

12. MOUNT EDGCUMBE

Just getting to this grand estate is worth the trip, as the easiest route is by ferry, with spectacular views of the Royal William Yard and Plymouth Sound.

Once you’re there, take a Segway around the estate with coastal views, walk the ancient barrows and mystical woodland, and take the coast path above secluded beaches and smugglers’ coves.

Take a walk through history as you explore the ancestral home of the Earls of Mount Edgcumbe – if you’re in the mood, make use of the dressing-up collection and explore it dressed as a Tudor!

There are a number of exhibitions that bring the past to life in the context of the Edgcumbe family and their estate – visit the website to find out more.

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F ind out more: mountedgcumbe.gov.uk

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STUDENT HUB LISTENING POST

H

eading off to uni is exciting, right? It’s full of amazing opportunities and a chance to branch out on your own. It’s also a huge step and about so much more than studying for a degree and planning for your future career.

Your time at university is a time to discover who you are and build your network and community of friends, and for many of you it’s an opportunity to start living independently for the first time. That’s a lot to take in for anyone and that’s where the Student Hub can help.

One of the best things about the University is our wonderfully diverse student population, and we know that no two students are the same. We appreciate that the university experience is a very individual thing, and here in the

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COUNSELLING

MENTAL HEALTH

STUDENT FUNDING UNIT

Student Hub we’re on hand to help you navigate through this exciting and sometimes daunting chapter in your life with a friendly smile and the offer of some wellbeing and practical support.

Based right in the centre of campus, in the Charles SealeHayne Library, the Student Hub is the place to go if you have any concerns or issues during your time at university. Our team of advisors are on hand to talk things through and offer a range of options to help support you.

We aim to provide a ‘one-stop shop’ for all wellbeing and nonacademic enquiries, and the hub is staffed by a wonderful team of advisors who are available to help on a wide range of topics such as mental health and wellbeing, disability advice, international student advice, funding and bursaries, pastoral and spiritual

“The first place I went for support with writing was the Writing Café, which is set in a laid-back coffee shop. The Writing Café is run by the Learning and Development team and has trained student writing mentors on hand to help students in a relaxed and friendly environment.”

Julie, BSc (Hons) Dietetics

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DISABILITY SERVICES

PASTORAL AND SPIRITUAL SUPPORT

LEARNING DEVELOPMENT

support, and learning support.

The team can signpost you to any of these services and also help to set up appointments with a specialist advisor if they are unable to fully resolve your query.

The hub is a bright, inclusive and welcoming space that has been designed with students in mind and we would love to see as many of you as possible when you arrive on campus.

It’s really important to me in my role as the leader of the Student Hub team that we are able to provide a space where all students feel welcomed and comfortable to talk us about anything.

Claire Chinnock, Student Services Hub Manager

The role and presence of an offering much like ours in Student Services is becoming ever more important to young people as they enter into higher education.

We are passionate about being a part of the student journey with you and we are on hand to help, wherever you are.

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Visit us Find out more

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVICE

“My experience of the counselling sessions was great. It was very professional and fast, and the counsellors were all experienced.

The hub really gave me a safe place to talk about what was going on and get some good advice!”

Emma, BSc (Hons) Psychology

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Your wellbeing has always been, and continues to be, a priority for us. We understand the extra challenges that the pandemic has brought and how these can differ for each person.

Be yourself It is important to remember that university is a place to really find yourself and be yourself. It’s a fresh start where people don’t know you, allowing you to be the person you want to be. Universities are diverse by their nature, but Plymouth has a reputation for being particularly inclusive and welcoming to all. That may go some way to explaining the general happiness of the Plymouth community; according to Do Something Different, by Professors Fletcher and Pine, diversity and inclusiveness are good for your wellbeing.

Healthy body and mind We encourage all students to find out about our wellbeing services. This isn’t because we expect all our students to struggle – on the contrary, university is where many people thrive – but we all have mental health and, just like our physical health, it can falter sometimes.

University should be open to all, regardless of faith, race, colour, disability, mental health, gender or sexuality. We are proud of our diverse community and feel anyone interacting with us should feel comfortable being who they are. We want you to bring your whole self to university and not have to hide any aspect of who you are.

Exercise can help to support a balanced mental wellbeing. There are evidenced links between good mental health and sport and exercise. Regular exercise can help to maintain personal wellbeing and help to mitigate the effects of mild to moderate depression and anxiety.

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Think of finding out about our wellbeing services being to your mental health what registering with a GP is to your physical health: preparation for keeping you in the best health possible.

Through UPSU, our on-campus gym and wider sporting connections throughout the city, the University offers a range of fitness sessions and classes, and we have adapted these so that they offer our students a safe way to keep fit. There are also numerous sporting clubs and societies to get involved with. Take a look at all of our clubs and societies on the UPSU website at upsu.com We’re here for you Life has been tough for a lot of people in recent months. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Reach out to our Student Services team for support, including our dedicated Mental Health team and a range of other services, including: Disability Services; learning development; SUM:UP; care leavers’ support, and pastoral and spiritual support.

Did you know that students suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions may be able to access additional funding to support their studies? If you want to talk about your anxiety and how we can support you both financially and personally, please get in touch with our Student Services team or directly with Disability Assist.

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Inclusiveness and wellbeing are at the heart of our University and we consider your personal life equally as important as your academic life because the two are intrinsically linked.

The British Medical Association suggests we should all take action to support our wellbeing as it has numerous benefits, including greater self-confidence, improved quality of life and healthier behaviours. Simple ways to look after yourself include…

Quick pick-me-ups 5

 getting into a good sleep routine  being mindful of your surroundings and environment, from decluttering to getting fresh air  doing the things you enjoy

10

 eating healthily and treating yourself  taking exercise  spending quality time with friends and family as well as on your own.

30

Make your favourite drink and enjoy it quietly with no distractions

Text a friend or family member Write yourself a list of things you need to do Go for a walk Read a good book Put your favourite music on Do some exercise Call a friend or family member Have a tidy-up Grab an episode of your current Netflix

STUDENT SERVICES

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series

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Meet a friend for a drink Take a nap

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Our Student Wellbeing Services are here to support you to allow you to make the most of your time at university.

It’s no coincidence that many staff at the University were previously students here. For those people, it is not just a job, it is a passion to give something back and continue to support the next generation of students in the same way they were supported. This is particularly true of staff in our Student Services Hub. We’ve invited some of our staff to tell you a little more about what they do.

MENTAL HEALTH TEAM Offering support to help you make the most of your academic and personal life I studied at Plymouth and have such fond memories that I’m always excited to be able to work on campus. I may be biased, but the Mental Health team is just fabulous! They are all easygoing, with a really strong interest in student mental health, and nothing is too much trouble.

The needs of our students are continuously changing, so the team is always flexible and open to new ways of working to ensure you are getting the best possible service.

duty (during working hours) in case you need to see them.

The Mental Health team works as part of a multidisciplinary team alongside Counselling and Pastoral and Spiritual Support, ensuring we all work together to support you. I love how simple this makes it for us to work together and to offer quick support when it’s needed.

Atarah Bradshaw, Mental Health Advisor

We offer daily assessments and do a daily mental health drop-in, and there is always a member of the team on

LISTENING POST No need to wait for help or support.

You can get a same-day appointment with a trained listener.

Looking for connection? Want to talk things through? Worried about your academic work or struggling with relationships? You don’t need to wait to talk to someone. You can speak confidentially to a trained listener at the Listening Post.

Our warm and welcoming team of volunteers are experienced, caring and nonjudgemental. They can also give you information about other help and support available to you. If you need referral on to other services, they can signpost you on. The Listening Post is available from 10:00 –16:00, Monday to Friday. You can get a same-day appointment by contacting the Student Hub. Email: student.services@plymouth.ac.uk Or join waitwhile: waitwhile.com/lists/studentserviceh/join Or call: +44 (0)1752 587676

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The campaign Raising student and staff awareness of the range of informational resources that have been developed by the Wellbeing Service team.

I’m Ben, one of the University’s Mental Health Advisors, and I am also a former University of Plymouth student. One of the most common concerns that we have heard in the Mental Health team from students, especially during COVID-19, is the feeling of being alone.

So the University Wellbeing Service team decided to do something about it, to help people recognise they are not alone in their struggles. I feel passionately about supporting people through difficult times, as do my team, which is why the University has introduced a range of online therapeutic groups to address some of these new-found pressures and collectively figure out ways to support each other. Groups include Calm and Zoom, Mood Boost, Mindfulness, Enhancing Motivation, Men’s Group, Women’s Group and LGBT+ in isolation.

The groups represent an opportunity for students to come together, be real, recognise their struggles and from this flourish!

All sessions are held over Zoom and can be booked here: plymouth.ac.uk/counselling

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Just the mention of ‘therapeutic groups’ tends to get the reaction of a sideward glance, eye-roll and racing, fearful thoughts of talking about your childhood secrets in front of a Zoom full of strangers, but... that’s not what we are doing. The groups are run by trained professionals with a range of backgrounds including mental health nursing, occupational therapy, social work and counselling. They are focused on upskilling specific areas and recognise that the challenges we all face are unique to each of us.

As we all come back together for the start of a new academic year, we’d love to talk to you, so please do get in touch. Contact us or find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/ student-services Ben Dobson, Mental Health Advisor

An increased demand is expected for mental health support at a time when students are experiencing the potentially stressful transition from school to university. We have designed the #MindYourHead campaign to raise awareness of the mental health support services available to students. The materials will be published online and on campus to help signpost students who may need support.

“Whenever I miss home, I always try to cook some local cuisine and share with my friends and enjoy it. Friendships I’ve made here in the University have been my greatest therapy to overcome all emotional breakdowns as a student.”

Sumalka, MPhil/PhD in Business Management

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PASTORAL AND SPIRITUAL SUPPORT Here in the Pastoral and Spiritual Support Centre we have a wonderful team of chaplains, pastoral support volunteers and faith advisors from many different backgrounds. We are here to help you not only get the best out of your time at University but also to really flourish as a person.

Support for the whole University community, whether you think of yourself as spiritual, Our starting point for what we do is religious, a person of you. What are your pastoral, spiritual religious needs? How can we faith or of no faith at all and help you be the real you? We offer

non-judgmental, confidential and supportive listening as well as spiritual and religious advice and guidance and practical help where we can, not to mention the endless supply of tea, coffee and biscuits!

Everyone is very welcome, and we are proudly an LGBTQ+ Breathing Space.

We work closely with other student wellbeing services, and if we can’t help you then we will almost certainly know who can! You don’t need to be religious or see yourself as a person of faith or as spiritual to come and talk to us. We are here for everyone and that includes you! Whoever you are and however you are, get in touch or drop in and say hello. We would love to see you!

The Pastoral Support Team

You can find the Pastoral and Spiritual Support Centre on the main campus at 1 Kirkby Terrace. Come and see us – there are kitchen facilities, a comfy lounge to hang out in, multi-faith prayer rooms, office space and usually a chaplain or volunteer on duty to talk to.

DISABILITY SERVICES As a team, we understand the word ‘disability’ means different things to different people. Often students don’t realise that their difficulty could be a disability.

If you have a mental health condition, such as anxiety; autism; sensory impairments; specific learning difficulties – such as dyslexia – or a long-term health condition and you haven’t told us, please get in touch. We can support you while you are applying, when you start, during your studies, and through to graduation and further studies.

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Supporting students with a range of physical, medical, mental health, social and learning disabilities

We can work with you and other staff within the University to recommend reasonable adjustments for your studies. This may help to support you in fieldwork, laboratories or during placements. We advise on diagnostic assessments for specific learning difficulties and autism, and help if you have requirements for assessment and exam arrangements, accommodation and access.

We can provide information and help you apply for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), a government fund specifically to support students with disabilities in university settings. It can

offer practical help like mentoring, study skills, assistive software and equipment. If you aren’t eligible for the DSA, we will work with you to create an individual plan of support.

We run weekly groups, including a social and support group for autistic students. One-to-one meetings with a Disability Advisor are available in person, by Zoom or on the phone, and there is always a Disability Advisor on duty every weekday.

Jo Bourton, Disability Advisor

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EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION I love my job! As a student at Plymouth I was really passionate about getting the most from my university experience, and now I lead a team that works to ensure everyone can bring their whole selves to campus.

University in top five universities for L GBT+ Inclusion.

FIND OUT MORE

Throughout the year, we organise events to celebrate our rich and diverse culture here at Plymouth, from free movie screenings, seminars, cultural food events and even a huge international fashion show. I also run a Dignity and Respect Advisor Network and helped to create our ‘Speak Up’ anonymous reporting tool, both of which are available for staff and students. Both of these schemes enable everyone to feel comfortable and supported in being themselves and allow us to take action should anyone run into difficulties.

Last year, as well as our events calendar, we helped to launch the University’s first Jewish Society, we supported UPSU in Black Lives Matter campaigns and hosted special dropin days for staff and students to learn about how they can best support local refugees and asylum seekers.

Because of my work with our LGBT+ staff and students, I was nominated as an LGBT+ Role Model in ITV’s National Diversity Awards, and I’m so proud to have achieved that for the whole University and not just myself.

It is a genuine privilege to do what I do, and I love working for the University that I studied at and for a University that truly celebrates our differences and works hard to ensure university is an exciting and enriching experience. Our team is on hand to point you in the right direction if you need some confidential and independent support or advice, and if you ever need us then you’ll be given a warm welcome.

Ariel Chapman, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Manager

For more information about the full range of student support and wellbeing services on offer, visit plymouth.ac.uk/student-hub

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVICE Travelling to the UK to study should be exciting, but it can be daunting, too.

Getting settled in a new country with different customs, languages, food and currency is a challenge.

It may be your first time away from home experiencing some rainy weather and a different culture to what you’re used to.

You may miss home in the early days or you may be very happy to be away from home! Thankfully, we’re used to making students from all over the world feel at home.

In your first week, student ambassadors will be here to welcome you. There will be a mix of talks, online sessions and plenty of social events!

We have plenty of web support and can meet you online if you prefer, even before you arrive in the UK. We also offer specialist international student immigration advice for free so please ask if you need any advice on visas.

However you are feeling, International Student Advice (ISA) is here to give you the support you may need.

Nina George, Senior International Student Advisor

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REGISTERING WITH A GP The University Medical Centre is based on the Plymouth campus and accepts all students living in University accommodation and the immediate area.

You can register with the centre when you move to Plymouth.

Visit plymouthstudenthealth. com for more information.

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Your

CAREERS SERVICE Your first year at university is the perfect opportunity to have your eyes opened and discover more about who you are, and what is possible for your future.

Student mentoring

Angharad Price-Hughes BEd (Hons) Primary student

Nicholas Ransom BSc (Hons) Psychology student

Leila Moore BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation student

Open to all students, the University’s mentoring schemes can help you boost your confidence, gain inspiration, and awaken possibilities.

Enhance your Future Rose Thompson BA (Hons) Filmmaking student

You don’t need to know exactly what you want to do after graduating, but getting a sense of your values, capabilities and dreams will help you make the most of the rest of your university experience. It’s why your Careers Service has so much to offer you in your first year. From helping you recognise your future possibilities to supporting you in gaining valuable professional experiences, we are here to help.

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Emma Butler BSc (Hons) Events Management student

We asked five students at the end of their first year to tell us how they had spent the year exploring their options, building their professional brand, and having some fun at the same time.

Our Enhance your Future programme aims to equip you with all you need to make the most of your university experience and leave us in a few years’ time, happy with the path you are on.

AT THE END OF YOUR FIRST YEAR, WHERE DID YOUR CAREER AMBITIONS STAND? APH: I am currently training to become a primary school teacher.

NR: Although I am not fully sure on the career that I aspire towards, I am very interested in mental health and psychopathy within the criminal justice system. It is my aim to work with convicted criminals suffering with these conditions to assist in developing better support and preventative measures within communities.

LM: I am currently working towards a career researching marine mammals, particularly orca research. This is a goal I have been working towards for a long time as I have always been fascinated by these incredible animals.

RT: If you know where you are going to be in the future, you’re kidding yourself and if the last couple of years have taught us anything, it’s that life is ridiculously unpredictable. Rather than setting an expectation of where I need to be in life, I hope I can continue to share what I’m passionate about through film. I see myself in a

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Digital resources Use the digital resources on the University’s myCareer system to help you consider career options, find parttime work, book onto career fairs, and much more.

You can also book an appointment with an adviser to help you with your decision making.

Work experience Discover all the different ways you can gain valuable work experience and how the University can support you.

better place than I am now, doing something that I love with a real sense of purpose.

EB: I am currently interested in a role in event management and more specifically in festival management. I am still not set on this and would be open to exploring other avenues, such as crisis management.

OUTSIDE OF YOUR STUDIES, WHAT ACTIONS DID YOU TAKE IN YOUR FIRST YEAR TO DEVELOP YOUR ABILITIES AND GROW YOUR CAREER PLANS? LM: During my first year I took part in the University’s professional mentoring programme. This helped me greatly as I got to work on my CV and applications to internships and research programmes around the world. It also helped to me gain a better understanding of the field of work I am wanting to go into. I was luckily paired with someone that has a great deal of experience and actually studied the exact same degree as me here at Plymouth!

RT: Before engaging in the University’s Enhance your Future programme, I felt that I didn’t

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Make the most of your 1st year Gain more inspiration for how best to make the most of your first year.

really have any opportunities to develop professionally this year.

However, through engaging in the programme, I have taken some big steps and grown my online presence. I set up a work email so other creatives can contact me, and I started my YouTube channel for me to showcase all of my Uni films for others to see. Another important step I have taken is networking and putting myself out there professionally.

EB: My first year at university saw me grab as many opportunities as I could. I became a Course Rep, joined the Dance Society, completed the Enhance your Future programme, and created a LinkedIn account to grow my online presence and begin networking. I also took up a micro-internship and took part in a knowledge exchange project, and began volunteering.

All of this helped to develop my soft skills, which can be applied no matter where I work.

NR: I gained a part-time job role within healthcare to cultivate and develop my skills in resilience and ethically sound thinking. I have independently undertaken accredited online courses aimed towards understanding the human psyche, as well as taken the time to talk to professionals within the University’s Careers Service, to help me consider my options.

MOVING FORWARD, WHAT ARE YOUR NEXT STEPS? LM: My next steps are to work further on my applications to internships as I would like to gain as much experience in the field as possible. In particular, I am looking to undertake some marine mammal research programmes, which I discovered through the professional mentoring programme. In my first year, I joined a few societies to get to know people and now I am on the committee for the Sailing Society, which will help me to gain some more organisational skills.

EB: To develop my skills and move forward with my career plans, I will be looking at getting industry -specific experience to figure out

what it is that I enjoy. I secured work at two festivals last summer. As this is primarily what I am interested in, I wanted to get some experience with festivals early to then be able to explore my options further.

APH: I would like to continue to take part in extra-curricular activities including University societies and become a Student Ambassador or Course Rep. I will also continue to explore career options and develop my understanding of teaching pedagogy by volunteering and gaining further experience in schools.

WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NEW FIRSTYEAR STUDENT? NR: I would advise that you never say no to an experience or opportunity. It is very important to not limit yourself when deciding upon a career path. Research and try to experience as many industries as realistically possible, and you will be surprised at what you enjoy.

APH: It’s never too early to start thinking about your selfdevelopment or future career plans. The Careers Service is an excellent resource, and I am extremely grateful for having had the opportunity to complete the mentoring programme this year.

RT: The one piece of advice I would give to first-year students is to realise that it’s all a learning curve.

Sometimes you will absolutely smash it and sometimes you’ll want to give up, but from this you improve and better yourself because that’s what self-development is.

EB: I would advise a first-year student to take whatever opportunities you can and make a note of them – you will do more than you think! Looking back at my year I feel as though I have achieved so much more beyond my course and have really taken time for selfdevelopment, and that for me has been really important.

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ell at AWBUDGET EON Sometimes, eating good food on a student budget can feel impossible. Dietetics student Tanisha is here to give you some of her favourite recipes that taste delicious and are also great for your purse strings!

Fajitas

Serves 2 Keeps in the fridge for 3 days Ideal for lunch the next day Ingredients • 1 chicken breast (can be just as delicious without chicken too!)

• 1 onion • 1 bell pepper • ½ tbsp oil of choice • Fajita spice packet or 1tsp smoked paprika and ½ tsp chilli flakes • 300g jar of salsa • Tortilla wraps Optional veggies • 1 carrot • Small head of broccoli • ½ courgette • Mushrooms Method 1. Cut the chicken and the vegetables into strips 2. Add the chicken to a frying pan and fry in the oil until cooked through 3. Add the spices to the pan and cook for a minute 4. Add your vegetables of choice and cook until soft 5. Add the jar of salsa and cook for another 2 minutes 6.

Serve in tortillas with cheese

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Pasta bake

Ser ves 4 Sauce will fr eeze or keep in the fridge days. Cook pa for 3 sta fresh wit h each servin g.

Ingredients • 250g be ef mince or Q uorn mince • 1 carrot • 1 onion • 1 bell pe pper • ½ courge tte • 1tsp ga rlic purée • 1tbsp to mato purée • 400g ti n chopped to matoes • Small he ad of broccoli • Big spoo n of frozen pe as • Dried fu silli pasta • Cheese – cheddar or grated mozz alternative arella, or your favour

ite vegan

Method 1. Fry off the mince in a large saucep comes out an and drain any fat that 2. Dice th e carrot, onio n , bell pepper an pan with the d courgette an mince d add to the 3. Add in the tomato pu rée, garlic pu then fill the ca rée and the ti n half way w n of tomatoe ith water an s, the boil then d add to the simmer for 2 pan. Bring to 0 minutes 4. In a sepa rate saucepan cook 75g of handful) follo pasta per pe wing the pack rson (large et instructio peas when th ns. Add in th ere are 8 min e broccoli an 5. Add the utes left d cooked pasta to a baking dish an 6. Add chee d spoon a port se and grill on ion of mix on medium heat top until cheese is bubbling

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Top Tips

FROM OUR STUDENTS

Cook for friends and divide the cost. In halls, we more or less did our own thing foodwise, but occasionally had a roast on a Sunday or a chilli night, where we all chipped in. It made it really cheap to eat well. A lot of recipes online are for a family of four anyway, so you may as well take it in turns to cook, or just save all the portions and freeze them for another time.

NINA BA (Hons) Fine Art and Art History

CHARLOTTE MSc Business and Management

Plan your meals and bulk cook. I would always suggest, before you go shopping, trying to work out what you’re going to cook that week. Also, say if you’re cooking one or two big meals a week and you know that will do you for the week, freeze whatever you don’t eat. This helps to: a) save money and b) save food waste as well.

Always go to the reduced section first. I can’t tell you the amount of bargains I’ve found from becoming friends with that yellow label. If you work out the time when they start properly dropping the prices on food, then you can get some high-quality items extremely cheap simply because they go out of date on that day. A lot of the things will also be reduced simply because of their ‘sell by’ date but not their ‘use by’, meaning they’ll keep for a lot longer. Not to mention, items like meat and fish can be frozen on the day and then thawed out weeks later.

CHARLOTTE MSc Business and Management

CHARLIE BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing

Make your lunch and take it to uni... and your coffee! You might not think that £3 for a meal deal or £1.25 for a coffee at uni is much but it adds up if you’re doing that every single day of the week.

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Plymouth is a foodie destination, featuring different delicacies to get your taste buds tingling. Food at the University is of an exceptionally high standard, with low prices and seasonal, sustainable menus which boast an exciting choice across campus.

Sustainable food and drink are at the heart of our eateries.

We have been awarded a 3-star rating in the Sustainable Restaurant Association’s Food Made Good Awards for the past five years, and this year our Catering team increased its sustainability score thanks to its sustainable initiatives and operations across the campus.

D R A K E ’ S K I TC H E N

Rolle Plaza One of the most popular cafés on campus for staff and students alike (in large part due to the yummy cakes and traybakes). Serving all your favourites, such as full English breakfasts, burgers, salads, and fish and chips.

R E S E R VO I R V EG E TA R I A N B I S T RO

Nancy Astor Building Exclusively vegetarian and a certified member of the Vegetarian Society, this is the ideal place to stop for lunch if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet or if you are looking for a healthy, light meal.

Perched on the edge of campus overlooking the restored Drake’s Place Reservoir and Gardens, this café offers a haven of tranquillity, in an often sun-drenched position.

J O H N B U LL C A FÉ

John Bull Building, north campus Fuelling the Peninsula Medical School on the north campus, tuck into a fantastic selection of freshly prepared salads and wholesome jacket potatoes. This café also serves daily hot dishes, from katsu curry to roast dinners with all the trimmings.

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C OO K WO R T H Y C A FÉ

Ground floor, Cookworthy Building Catering for the Business School on the outskirts of the main campus, a delicious range of local, sustainable and fresh snacks and drinks is available here, from breakfast right through to your afternoon snack.

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LI B R A RY C A FÉ First floor, Charles SealeHayne Library Serving a wide selection of drinks, sandwiches and snacks to keep you going as you revise and dash between lectures.

This is also the home of the Writing Café.

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R L B T E R R AC E B I S T RO

First floor, Roland Levinsky Building This café with a terrace on the top of the imposing Roland Levinsky Building provides amazing views across the city. Serving traditional English breakfasts and a wide variety of daily specials from an Asian-inspired menu, this is a popular spot for students grabbing a coffee with friends or food on the go.

T H E TOA S T O FFI C E

LOA FE R S

First floor, Emdeck Building Serving a delicious range of breakfast and lunch offers, including handmade toasted bagels and thick-cut toast with toppers, hot sandwiches and triple-cooked chips as well as artisan bakes and organic locally roasted coffee.

SU Roof Sandwiches are the main attraction here and they are crammed with fresh, sustainable and local ingredients.

Every sandwich is handmade and you can grab a cup of Starbucks while you’re there.

PO R T L A N D ’ S PI Z Z E R I A T H E C O N TA I N E R C A FÉ

Ground floor, Roland Levinsky Building The place to go for all-day breakfast burritos and build-your-own pick-andmix picnic boxes. With the aim to reduce single-use plastic, we only offer canned or glass-bottled drinks.

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Atria A, ground floor, Portland Square Building All things Italian!

Offering a wide variety of cooked-to-order 10inch sourdough pizzas, with a large selection of toppings as well as paninis, barista coffee and a selection of cakes.

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Sustainability rankings We are in the top 10 of UK universities ranked for environmental and ethical performance in the 2021 People & Planet University League.

WHEN IT COMES TO THE ENVIRONMENT WE KNOW THAT EVERY CONTRIBUTION MAKES A DIFFERENCE. Plymouth is a top sustainable university. We are ranked 15th in the world out of all the institutions featured in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2022 for our efforts in support of United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action. The University has established its position as an international pioneer in sustainability practices, research, education and engagement.

The THE Impact Ratings 2022 also rank the University 4th in the world for SDG 14: Life Below Water.

These rankings are the only global performance tables that assess universities against the United Nations’ SDGs and include 1,524 universities from 110 countries/ regions.

Further recognition for our worldleading work in the marine sector was evidenced in 2019 when we were awarded our third Queen’s

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Anniversary Prize, this time for research on marine plastics. Led

by Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS, this research into the effects of plastic in our oceans has been nearly two decades in the making.

The collaboration between Students Organising for Sustainability UK (SOS-UK), the National Union of Students (NUS), the University and College Union (UCU) and People & Planet (P&P)

Awarded in 2019 for worldleading research on marine plastics

– which is calling for ambitious carbon reduction targets to take action on the climate emergency and ecological crisis – recognised Plymouth as one of the few universities ‘leading the way’ in this initiative.

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THE SMALL THINGS WE’RE DOING TO MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE: Since we introduced a discount for café customers in 2018 if they ordered a hot drink served in their own reusable cup, we have saved over 68,000 cups from being sent to landfill.

THREE BIG GOALS:

90% of fish served landed in Plymouth ports

British farms and Red Tractor-assured

(majority from the South West)

TO HAVE A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS

T O DISCOVER SOLUTIONS TO THE WORLD’S MOST PRESSING SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGES

All our tea, coffee, sugar, hot chocolate and bananas are Fairtrade

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Triple-certified Fairtrade Rainforest Alliance and organic coffee in campus cafés

Food

waste

Seasonal

TO MOTIVATE THE NEXT GENERATION OF STUDENTS TO TACKLE THE SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGES THEY’LL FACE IN THEIR WORKPLACE

✪✪✪

fruit and vegetable supplier in Saltash

goes for local

anaerobic digestion

Serving less meat, more vegetables,

with meat portions less

than 150g per serving

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twitter Facebook-F INSTAGRAM /PlymUni

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