WELCOME TO SURREY
I
I hope you have settled into your accommodation and are looking forward to your journey ahead. At Surrey, we have a wonderful community, with terrific services, facilities and a passion for creating an excellent student experience. We hope that you will feel challenged, inspired, and supported during your time here. It is natural to have lots of questions and this magazine is here to help point you in the right direction. Our fantastic support teams are on hand to provide you with any further information you may need, offering advice on a wide range of subjects, including support with your studies, wellbeing, finance, and careers.
We are an inclusive community in which every individual is welcome and respected, and freedom of speech and academic freedom is valued. So please take advantage of the many and diverse societies, sports clubs and representation services offered by your Students’ Union and the University, and importantly, have fun! Guildford is a vibrant town in a beautiful county, with London right on its doorstep.
I look forward to seeing you around our beautiful campus.
All the best,
Emma Rowsell
Chief Student Officer
TOP TIPS!
There are many opportunities to get involved in at Surrey. Check out our content and recommendations to help you prepare for your course and your time at university.
Hi – welcome to Surrey! I’m Matt, your Union President! lead a team of sabbatical officers, and it’s our job to represent you to make sure that you have the best Surrey life.
Your Students’ Union is an independent, student-led charity that uses your voice to bring about institutional change and experiences that will last a lifetime. Come along to Freshers’ Fair to see what we have to offer!
We are led by a team of elected officers across five zones; Activity, Community, Support, Voice, and the Central zone to tie them all together. Through the Union you can:
• Get active through our clubs and societies
• Visit our social spaces at Rubix, the Front Room, and Manor Park Social
• Access independent academic advice
• Get support from (or volunteer in) student-led support services
• Become a course representative to take control of your education.
Whatever you want from Surrey – your Union is here to make it happen.
Got any questions? Pop into the Union to chat with us! You can also reach us at ussu.information@surrey.ac.uk, or follow our socials @surreyunion. Take care!
What
• Timetabled lectures or seminars
• Independent learning
• Revision
• Assignments
• Part-time work
• Volunteering
• Preparing meals
• Socialising
• Chores (e.g. laundry, food shopping, cleaning)
• Attending sports clubs and societies
• Accessing support and wellbeing services
• Relaxing • Exercising
Matt Samantha Kade Luana Amber
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Guide to your first week
Your time at university will be full of new experiences. This is just a template calendar for your first week, you can customise your own to suit your preferred schedule.
Move in day!
Unpack your belongings and choose a cupboard in the kitchen for your supplies and food.
Decorate and personalise your room. Look out for our student Community Hub for homeware!
Attend the first welcome events for your programme
Find these in your Welcome timetable.
Register with the local GP on campus. my.surrey.ac.uk/wellbeing
Check out Surrey Sports Park and the sports grounds on Manor Park.
Explore Guildford town (see page 26) or head to the Surrey Hills for a walk in the countryside.
How to set up the Wi-Fi on your devices.
Take a walk around our Manor Park and Stag Hill campuses and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Download the Surrey Perks app and check out the discounts on food and drinks outlets around campus. See page 27
Check out the Students’ Union’s welcome events and club nights at surreyunion.org. Some highlights include Freshers’ Fair and Active Freshers’ Fair, where you can meet all our clubs, societies and more!
Collect your campus card and get your week started with evening events run by the Students’ Union. Cards available from Monday 15th.
Buy an annual bus pass See page 6 for details
Open a student bank account in Guildford.
We have lots of useful advice on this and other money topics on MySurrey website.
Research the clubs and societies at Surrey and note down any you are interested in for the Freshers’ Fair on Friday 19 September.
Book onto a Library
Know How Tour for a guided walk around one of the most important buildings on campus. Find the latest times on your welcome timetable: my.surrey.ac.uk/ welcome/timetable
Access your personalised My Dashboard to find your emails and SurreyLearn.
Have a look at
Did you know that the University offers a variety of scholarships and bursaries?
You could receive financial support each academic year throughout your degree.
Search “scholarships and bursaries at Surrey” today. Stock up on vitamins and any
Find your timetablecourse to start preparing for teaching sessions next week.
EVENTS+ SOCIAL
All work and no play is not something we encourage here at Surrey, and we work with your Students’ Union to ensure there’s fun for everyone throughout the year. Make sure you check out the latest event line up at my.surrey.ac.uk/events and surreyunion.org/whats-on
Venues
Your student nightclub Rubix, the Basement and Hari’s Bar are located on Stag Hill campus with regular club nights! Manor Park Social runs quiz nights and has board games and great coffee on the go! Visit tixtu.com to see what’s on.
Employability & Careers Events
From
Surrey Decides
Take the lead and run your Students’ Union! The Union is a student-run charity, and every year we ask students to put themselves forward as candidates in an election called ‘Surrey Decides’. Look out for colourful campaigns, watch the heated debates at Question Time and most importantly, vote! surreyunion.org/your-voice/surrey-decides
Varsity
Varsity is Surrey’s biggest sporting event of the year when Team Surrey battle it out against local rivals, Royal Holloway, for the coveted Varsity Cup. Whether you’re a sporting enthusiast or just love an opportunity to wear face paint, join us as we cheer on Team Surrey to our next victory!
‘RAG’ meaning ‘raising and giving’, is a week run by the Students’ Union dedicated to charitable events and supporting all clubs,
Each year, the Union organises different fun runs including the Colour Run and Santa Run at Christmas. They are fun events designed to get you moving with your friends. Whether you walk or run, they are great to get involved in! Fun runs
Strictly Come Surrey
Strictly Come Surrey is a spectacular event run in collaboration with the Students’ Union and Ballroom and Latin Dance Club. It is a unique show that brings together University staff and students as celebrity dancers are paired up with BLDC “professionals”.
You will have plenty of opportunities throughout the year to take a break from your studies and enjoy anything from therapy dogs to mindful colouring and crafts.
Attend social events and pop-up activities at MySurrey Hive Stag Hill and Manor Park. They’re the perfect opportunity to connect, collaborate or learn new skills.
surrey.ac.uk/lets-talk
We are here for you.
Need wellbeing support?
The University offers a range of pastoral services to ensure you feel well and supported throughout your time here. We can also signpost you to external clinical services to help you get the support you need, when you need it.
Urgent mental health support
Mental Health Crisis Line - NHS helpline and available 24/7. Call 0800 915 4644
Safe Haven - a drop-in service for people experiencing a mental health crisis. Open 6pm - 11pm. oakleaf-enterprise.org/safe-haven
Health Assured - a 24/7 one-off support helpline. Call 0800 028 3766
SABP free 24/7 text service to adults in crisis (over 18s only). Text 07717 989 024
Samaritans - a free, confidential listening service. Available 24/7. Call 116
Papyrus Hopeline - confidential suicide prevention advice for young people. Call 0800 068 4141
Nightline - a free, confidential listening service run by trained students. surreyunion.org/nightline
Disability and Neuroinclusion
The Disability and Neuroinclusion team provide support to all students at the University of Surrey with a disability as defined by The Equality Act (2010). This includes: Autism, long-term medical conditions, mental health conditions, physical disabilities, sensory impairments and specific learning differences (e.g. dyslexia, dyspraxia).
Our team of highly experienced advisers and mentors can offer advice and support with exam adjustments, reasonable adjustments, study skills, mentoring, screening for specific learning differences and specific accommodation requirements.
Centre for Wellbeing
The Centre for Wellbeing offers advice and support for mental, emotional and psychological issues, as well as signposting to clinical services.
Sexual assault support
We are committed to preventing and responding to all forms of sexual misconduct without exception. Visit surrey.ac.uk/harassment-and-sexual-misconduct for information and support.
Our Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLOs) are trained to listen, provide support and guide you through your options.
The Solace Centre SARC offers free support and practical help to anyone in Surrey who has experienced sexual violence and/or sexual abuse. To book your appointment call 0300 130 3038 or email surrey.sarc@nhs.net
Report and Support
Abuse, bullying, harassment, hate crime or sexual misconduct will not be tolerated. Report by name or anonymously at reportandsupport.surrey.ac.uk
Community Support
The Communities Team provides you with support, advice and guidance while living in the University’s accommodation. Look out for the fun events and community activities the team will be organising throughout the year. They will also be your point of contact in your accommodation for any queries or help you may need.
CAMPUS SAFETY TEAM
Our Campus Safety team is here for you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They ensure that everyone who lives, works, and studies at the University is safe. The Campus Safety Team can support you with first aid, advice on your personal safety and they work closely with the Centre for Wellbeing and emergency services.
To contact the Campus Safety team, you can: Visit them in person at Senate House Reception, Stag Hill campus, at any time of the day.
Email: campus-safety@surrey.ac.uk
Call the team using these numbers
Emergency number: 01483 683333
Non-emergency number: 01483 682002
Your physical and mental health are connected. It is important to prioritise your wellbeing at university. Often when we are feeling down, we need to address the key areas in our lives that can help us feel better. Reflect on the past week and find the areas where you can make some changes to prioritise feeling good.
Physical
• Sleeping for 7-8 hours a night. Having a regular sleeping pattern is helpful for your quality of sleep and energy levels.
• Eating a balanced diet full of protein, vegetables, whole carbs, and healthy fats so your body has the nutrients it needs.
• Drinking 2-3 litres of water a day to stay hydrated.
• Exercising 3-4 times a week to release those feel-good hormones.
• Going outside and getting 20 minutes of sunlight during the day.
Stress strategies – what to do when you are feeling overwhelmed
1. Take a pen and paper and set a timer for 5 minutes. Write down everything that is on your mind.
2. Be kind to yourself and allow yourself to feel.
3. Look at everything on the page and work out what you can change.
4. Think about who can help you. Your Personal Tutor, a friend, your parents? Reach out to these people either by message, on a call or email.
CARING FOR YOUR WELLBEING
Mental
• Creating a positive and supportive network full of people who build you up.
• Practising gratitude on a daily basis and appreciating what you have. Thinking about the good things that have happened during the day.
• Staying organised and dedicating time in your diary to plan.
• Helping others! Research has found that even small acts of volunteering increased a sense of belonging to the local community.
Techniques to limit your time on social
Social media has been created by technology experts who want to grab your attention. It is important to be kind to yourself even if you are spending more time than you want on TikTok and Instagram.
Excessive scrolling increases the dopamine (feel good and motivating signal) in our brain, meaning the more time we spend on social, the less motivated we can feel to complete other tasks.
Here are some tips to help you reduce spending so much time scrolling: Plug your phone in on the other side of the room before you go to bed.
Build a morning routine. For example, when you wake up, get up and clean your teeth, drink a glass of water, get into the shower. Replace your scrolling time with a list of activities.
Set a social media timer limit so you are aware of how much time has passed.
When working, set your phone to ‘do not disturb’ or ‘focus mode’ to reduce notifications and distractions.
Tips to increase motivation after being on social media include:
Cold shower
Tidying your space
Distraction free work
Cook and eat a high protein meal
20-minute walk in sunlight
SPORTS AND SOCIETIES
Sports and Societies
Take a look on the Students’ Union website to see the latest list of sports clubs and societies. With over 140 clubs and societies, there are lots of sports to choose from!
Surrey Sports Park is home to Team Surrey and pro basketball club Surrey 89ers.
Whether you love to climb, play team sports or swim, Surrey Sports Park has it all! Check out the latest student memberships and sports timetables. teamsurrey.co.uk
Tips for joining a sports club or society
Remember you can join most sports clubs and societies at any time! Freshers’ Fair and Active Freshers at the beginning of term show you everything that’s available, and many sports clubs and societies offer free trials in the first couple of weeks. Don’t worry if you want to start something later –you can do this at any time during your studies.
• Speak to the committees and members of sports clubs and societies at Freshers’ Fair and Active Refreshers
• Check out the social media pages of the sports clubs and societies you are interested in
• Work out where the meeting spots are, you may be able to walk or get a bus
• Reach out to a friend to see if they would like to try something new with you
• Motivate yourself to go by thinking about everything that could go right.
CAMPUS TO CAREER YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE
LIVING AT UNIVERSITY: YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
My family have left, and I don’t know anyone, what do I do next?
It is natural to feel a little worried on your first night. One of the first steps is to go to the kitchen and meet your flatmates. Remember, most people will be in the same position as you, and although it may be a little awkward at first, try and get to know them by asking some questions. Where are they from? What are they studying? What interests do they have?
There are lots of events, lectures and other things I want to attend. How do I organise my time?
One of the best things you can do to help with organising your time is to buy a diary or use the calendar app in your phone. Getting into the habit of scheduling on a Sunday before your week starts will help you to feel calmer and in control of your time. First, start by filling in your lectures and then look at any societies and events you would like to attend. It is important to include the locations of these places too so you can quickly check back and know where you are going.
I am cooking for the first time. Any tips as to how I get started?
Most students start off with a couple of dishes that are familiar to them when they start university such as bolognese, fajitas, curries, or rice dishes. We recommend having a look at some recipes online or buying a student recipe book. Making a list of the foods you like to eat and meal planning prior to going shopping is a great way to stay focused in the supermarket and to stop you from over-buying.
I have not lived in a flat share before; what do I need to know?
When you are living with others, you need to think about keeping shared spaces clean. There is usually limited space to cook and chill so it is important to keep on top of your dishes, washing things up after you have finished your food. Only using/eating what is yours and remembering you need to work together to keep the place clean. Keep it light-hearted, we know how annoying a messy space can get. Some flats are single sex or designated quiet flats. Please respect these rules.
To find the Living in Halls Guide, with tips on making Surrey your home, and the conditions of your residence, visit: my.surrey.ac.uk/accommodation
I’m feeling lonely; how do I deal with homesickness?
Sometimes you can be surrounded by people but still feel lonely and that is okay. Not everyone will have the same interests as you. Having a list of people that you know and can reach out to is a good place to start. Arranging a catch up with your friends from home and with your family can help to talk through those feelings. Check out the Union’s long list of student societies and think about any you’d like to join (see page 16). Also consider other opportunities to meet new people, for example by becoming a course representative, joining Team Surrey or volunteering through the Students’ Union.
How do I meet new people?
How do I deal with difficult flatmates?
It is not always plain sailing when you are living with a range of people that all have their own habits and different ways of living. If you are having a problem, the first thing to do is to have an open conversation. It is best to have it in person, but messaging can work too. Aim to approach the conversation with kindness, always be polite and explain what has happened and how it has made you feel. If the person is not responding in a nice way and is continuing to cause problems, you can get help from the Communities team.
For more information, visit: my.surrey.ac.uk/accommodation/ living-halls-residence/welfare-andsupport
Starting a conversation with a new person can be anxiety-inducing for some people. It is key to remember that everyone shares the same emotions, and most people will respond positively when you reach out and are open and friendly. You could try asking your course mates to go for a coffee after class or organise study sessions to help each other with assignments.
Find fun events, societies and clubs on the Students’ Union website: surreyunion.org
There are three highly-recommended vaccines that all new students should get before starting university:
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
What vaccinations do I need to have?
How do I feel better with freshers’ flu?
Getting what is known as ‘freshers’ flu’ is common in your first couple of weeks of university. It refers to a wave of colds and other bugs that spread quickly through the student population at the beginning of a new academic year. Let your friends and family know you are unwell so they can check in with you. Make sure you are drinking enough and spending time resting. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, proteins and carbs. If you need over-thecounter medicines, go to your local pharmacy.
Where can I access sexual health support?
• Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
• Meningococcal ACWY (meningitis, find our signs and symptoms page on my.surrey.ac.uk/ wellbeing)
Contact your doctor before you arrive or within two weeks of starting university to keep up to date.
Buryfields Clinic offers free and confidential sexual health services and is only a 15-minute walk from the Stag Hill campus. Free and confidential testing for sexually transmitted infections (STI) is widely available for all students here. Alternatively, free self-test kits can be delivered to your address.
You can find more information about sexual health support at my.surrey.ac.uk/wellbeing
STUDY SPACES
Finding the right space to work and study is important for your creativity and productivity. There are a range of study spaces across the Stag Hill and Manor Park campuses for you to choose from, including group, silent and specialist spaces.
Some rooms can even be booked online, and we often open up extra space during exams to help you find the perfect spot for you.
• Library
• MySurrey Hive, Stag Hill and Manor Park
• MySurrey Dots
• MySurrey Nest
• Hillside Food Court
• Specialist rooms
Find out more at my.surrey.ac.uk/study/space
LOOKING FOR ADVICE AND SUPPORT?
Helping hands when you need us
University life is an amazing journey of discovery, and we understand that you might need some guidance along the way.
That’s why we offer a wealth of online resources and have dedicated teams of friendly, supportive people ready to provide the best advice and assistance.
Remember, there’s no shame in seeking help – if you’re ever unsure about something, come talk to us. We’re here for you!
MySurrey website is your first stop for searching for news, events, information and more.
Use it to stay up to date on things happening around campus, the latest events and workshops, and all the key information you need to support you through your studies.
Visit my.surrey.ac.uk now and give it a bookmark for future reference!
Want to know how to get a bank letter? Need to find the opening times for a service? Or maybe you are looking for health and wellbeing advice?
MySurrey Help has you covered! Get answers to your questions anytime or find the right contact details to speak with our friendly staff.
Visit help.surrey.ac.uk to browse hundreds of useful topics and FAQs.
Our MySurrey Hives are your spaces for support.
Our teams of welcoming Hive Assistants are here Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 5pm, to answer your queries and guide you to the right support, when you need it.
Both our Hives are open to all students, but if you live or study at Manor Park you may find our Hive Manor Park spot more convenient to visit - just drop in and say hi to our friendly team.
Search MySurrey Hive on Google Maps to find the locations or visit my.surrey.ac.uk/hive
Your Union operates independently of the University, so if you need help and support for academic issues, we can represent you. We offer support on everything from housing to your wellbeing; we’re even here if you want to help other students too, through our peer-support services. Our friendly team is led by an elected student officer, the VP Support, and supported by trained full-time staff, who are available Monday – Friday to assist you.
Contact us at ussu.advice@surrey.ac.uk or visit surreyunion.org/support
Your Personal Tutor
Disability and Neuroinclusion
Maths and Statistics Advice
Learning and development workshops
Who can I ask for help with my studies?
MySurrey Hive (Stag Hill and Manor Park)
My Learning Development on SurreyLearnonline guides and resoruces
Peer Assisted Learning Skills Library Hub – research, articles, and databases
For more information, scan the QR code and explore all the support available.
Unmissable opportunities
CAMPUS BITES ON A BUDGET:
3 MUST-HAVE FOOD AND DRINK DISCOUNT APPS
We aren’t here to gatekeep the best food and drink deals across campus, and with more than 15 options across Stag Hill and Manor Park, there’s no shortage of places to grab a meal deal, free coffee or daily bargains with our very own zero waste scheme.
Say hello to a host of deals with Surrey Perks, where you can earn and redeem stamps with every order.
You can find great coffee and food plus the latest events, promotions and seasonal offers, all within our dedicated mobile app.
Top tip: extra points are available when you refer your friends, so get the app now and share your referral code round your whole flat!
Download the app today to get your first drink for free - just scan the QR code below or find it on the Apple and Android app stores.
The app that gives you rewards just for completing your daily activity!
Rack up points as you walk to and from lectures, take a jog around the lake, or hit lengths in the Sports Park pool, then convert them to earn rewards like half price coffee and sandwiches. Rewards change throughout the year and also include other goodies like discounted merchandise, fitness classes and more. All just for being active!
Download the app today - scan the QR code or search for it on your app store.
We know you will be hitting our on-campus Coop for meal deals and study snacks (it’s located in the Library - perfect when you need a pick me up), so download the Co-op app now ready to unlock their exclusive member discounts.
Membership is just £1 (yes, that’s right!) but you will be saving on every day essentials like milk and bread plus getting personalised offers every week!
All you need to do is download the app and sign up to get instant access to all their member benefits.
