UNDERGRADUATE GUIDE arrival
1 0 - 1 7 S E P 1 6
your destination
EDI EDINBURGH
WELCOME 02 MEET YOUR SABBATICAL OFFICERS
04
CONTENTS
CONTENTS GET STARTED 07 STUDENT LIFE 17 GET INVOLVED 27 WELLBEING 43 UNIVERSITY RESOURCES
50
DIRECTORY 54
1
WELCOME
E M O C L E W WELCOME TO THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH! As a student here, you’re automatically a member of Edinburgh University Students’ Association. We’re your Students’ Association, here to help you make the most of your time at university. With our award-winning bars and clubs, huge range of societies offering you the chance to make new friends and do the things you love, and friendly, accessible advice and peer learning and support services, we’re with you for Welcome Week to Graduation Ball and everything in between! We’re run by students, for students, and we’re here to represent everyone who studies at the University of Edinburgh, so make sure you get involved! Whether you join a society, become involved in peer support or run for an elected position to represent your fellow students, there are countless opportunities for you to meet new people, gain valuable CV boosting skills and make a difference to things you care about. All students, including first years, are eligible to stand for positions and vote in our student elections, so everyone has a say in running your association. This guide is here to help you know what to expect in Welcome Week and introduce you to student life. Don’t forget to check out your What’s On Guide for details of the hundreds of Welcome Week events we have lined up for you, from Reggie & Bollie appearing at our legendary Big Cheese club night and Game of Thrones Rave featuring the one and only HODOR to ceilidhs, vintage fairs and the unmissable Freshers’ Ball. You can find out more about everything that’s on offer at eusa.ed.ac.uk/welcome2016, and you can also download our official Students’ Association app, available from September. Visit the University’s New Student events website and get their app too! (See page 9). There’s a lot to take in when you start university. So whether you’re raring to go or feeling a little nervous, remember there are thousands of other people in exactly the same situation, and we’re here to help. You can drop into the Advice Place, chat to any of our Sabbatical Officers or come along to our stalls at the Activities and Academic Fairs. There’s a handy directory at the back of this guide, with contact details for useful organisations both on and off campus, and the University also has lots of checklists and handy information at ed.ac.uk/new-students. In the meantime, we hope you’re looking forward to Welcome Week and to joining us here at the University of Edinburgh — see you soon!
2
3
WELCOME
MEET YOUR SABBATICAL OFFICERS
MEET YOUR SABBATICAL OFFICERS Every year, four students are elected to serve as Sabbatical Officers. These students run your Students’ Association and represent you to the University and other organisations. You can find out more about our representation structures and activities on page 29 of this guide and at eusa.ed.ac.uk/representation, but in the meantime, say hello to your 2016/17 Sabbatical Officers!
ALEC EDGECLIFFE-JOHNSON PRESIDENT
president@eusa.ed.ac.uk /EdUniStudentsAssociationPresident @eusapresident Like the whole sabbatical team, I’m here to help make our overall university experience the best it can be! I’ll be working hard on your behalf on a whole range of issues, and if you need anything, I can point you in the right direction, be a sounding board for ideas and try to help with any concerns. I hope you enjoy your time at Edinburgh and come to think of your Students’ Association as your home from home while you’re here!
4
PATRICK GARRATT
VICE PRESIDENT ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
I’m here to support and represent you on all aspects of academic life, from learning materials and study spaces to exams and assessments, academic support and everything in between! Look out for the Academic Fair during Welcome Week, this is your chance to take some great classes outside of your degree programme. Attending your introductory talks is a really important way of getting off to a good start, and make sure you also attend your meeting with your Personal Tutor.
JENNA KELLY
VICE PRESIDENT SERVICES vps@eusa.ed.ac.uk /VicePresidentServices @eusavps
MEET YOUR SABBATICAL OFFICERS
vpaa@eusa.ed.ac.uk /VicePresidentAcademicAffairs @eusavpaa
I oversee the commercial services offered by your Students’ Association, including the events, bars, and shops in our four venues: Potterrow; King’s Buildings House; The Pleasance; and Teviot Row House — the oldest purpose built students’ union in the world! I also work to make sure sustainability is embedded in our services. Our Welcome Week events programme is a great chance for you to sample student life here at Edinburgh, so get out there and get involved!
JESS HUSBANDS
VICE PRESIDENT SOCIETIES AND ACTIVITIES vpsa@eusa.ed.ac.uk /VicePresidentSocietiesActivities @eusavpsa I’m here to represent you on issues of welfare and equality and diversity, as well as looking after societies and volunteering with our Activities team. There’s so much to get involved in here at Edinburgh, so make sure you check out the Sports and Activities Fairs during Welcome Week, and read the handy info in this guide to get off to the best possible start. Remember the Advice Place is always there to help if you’re not sure where to turn.
5
GET STARTED 08 | BEFORE YOU ARRIVE 10 | WELCOME WEEK 15 | FRESHERS’ WRISTBAND
7
GET STARTED
BEFORE YOU ARRIVE BB Complete your online registration BB Pack important documentation BB Look out for emails from the University’s Accommodation, Catering and Events team if you’re moving into university accommodation
BB Take some time to prepare before you arrive at university to make sure you’re ready for an incredible year!
REGISTER
You’ll receive an email from the University before your start date with a link to online registration via the MyEd Portal. This is one part of the matriculation process (the formal process of being accepted into the University). You’ll complete the rest of your matriculation in Welcome Week. Guidance on how to register online can be found at studentsystems.ed. ac.uk/student/register_online.htm.
GET ONLINE AND EXPLORE
Have a look at ed.ac.uk/maps to get an idea of where the accommodation and University buildings are; check out ed.ac.uk/new-students for valuable information and handy checklists from the University and start planning which of our amazing events you’ll come to first at eusa.ed.ac.uk/welcome2016.
8
WAIT BEFORE BUYING TEXTBOOKS
PACK IMPORTANT DOCUMENTATION
BB Unconditional offer from the University BB Insurance documents BB National Insurance number (if you have one) BB Driving licence (if you have one) BB Passport and extra passport photos BB Any information from your funding body e.g. SAAS BB Bank or building society details BB Any accommodation documents BB Information about any medical conditions, Make sure you bring:
GET STARTED
Unless specified, don’t buy any course books before you arrive. You’ll be told about any essential books in lectures. Don’t forget you can access lots of books in the University’s libraries or purchase second hand copies through websites like bookadopter.com or local initiatives like the SHRUB co-op.
plus a 3 month supply of any prescribed medications and a letter explaining what it is
THE UNIVERSITY APP
Download the University of Edinburgh Events app and you’ll have all you need to know about Welcome Week at your fingertips! From August, you can find the download link on the New Student events website ed.ac.uk/students/new-students/events. You can use the app to create your own Welcome Week schedule.
CONNECT WITH US
Follow us at facebook.com/EdUniStudentsAssociation and on Twitter @eusa for the latest news and updates, and get all the latest updates when you sign up for our Welcome Week 2016 Facebook event. From September you can also download our Students’ Association app to keep you up-to-date with events, society and volunteering info.
9
GET STARTED
WELCOME WEEK BB Try to get out there and get involved — it’s ok
BB Make sure you allow time for the practical stuff to feel nervous!
BB Check out your What’s On Guide for full event listings, — see our tips on Welcome Week essentials and look at our recommended highlights
Welcome Week is one of the most exciting times of the year! It’s a great chance to meet new people and get involved. It can also be a bit daunting, but try not to worry — everyone else is new too and feeling just the same! Get out there and find out about everything that’s on offer to help you have an amazing time at Edinburgh.
ARRIVING AT YOUR ACCOMMODATION
Information will be provided by the University’s Accommodation, Catering and Events team via email so please check your University email account. News relating to accommodation will also be posted on their website at accom.ed.ac.uk. Student Resident Assistants (RAs) will be on-site at your accommodation on arrival and throughout the year to help you settle in and organise events to meet others, make friends, and get to know Edinburgh. If you have any questions, just ask! If you’re not in University accommodation and you need more information, you can ask the Advice Place for help.
10
UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD
The University requires that you have a student card, which serves as your student ID, library card and allows you access to some University buildings. When your place at Edinburgh is confirmed, you’ll receive an email to the personal email account you used during the admissions process, which will detail how to submit a photo online to allow your card to be produced. If you are staying in University accommodation, your card will be given to you when you collect your keys. If not, you can collect your card from the Main Library in George Square during Welcome Week.
GET STARTED
WELCOME WEEK ESSENTIALS
The whole University really comes alive during Welcome Week, so enjoy it! Check out your What’s On Guide for details of all the amazing events in store for you, and pick up your Freshers’ Wristband for great savings when you attend multiple Welcome Week events, as well as exclusive offers on food and drink!
WELCOME WEEK CHECKLIST
The University’s Induction Team have lots of great information on getting started at Edinburgh. Make sure you check out their New Student website, and use the checklists at ed.ac.uk/students/newstudents/checklists to keep yourself on track.
While you’re enjoying all the social aspects and settling in, remember to:
BB Finish your matriculation to make sure you’re fully registered. Your School/College will arrange for you to meet your Personal Tutor, and advise of any additional admission criteria. Find out more at studentsystems.ed.ac.uk/ student/matriculation/index.htm
BB Organise your finances. See our handy guide to student finance on page 18 BB Register with healthcare services. Don’t wait BB Attend your School and/or College induction
until you need an appointment! Check out our health and wellbeing section on page 43
sessions. They’ll give you lots of information on how your course will be run, so you’ll know what to expect. Find out when your sessions will be at ed.ac.uk/new-students
11
AD: Hewats
AD: Vitality Dental
GET STARTED
WELCOME WEEK HIGHLIGHTS
With so much going on, it’s impossible to do it all — find out what’s most interesting to you and go for it! Here are the highlights we recommend: GO TO THE UNIVERSITY’S WELCOME CEREMONY This is the official Welcome Week Opening presented by the University Principal and Alec Edgecliffe-Johnson, your Students’ Association President. It’s at 2.15pm on Monday 12 September in the Festival Theatre on Nicolson Street. ATTEND THE ACADEMIC FAIR Most Undergraduates can select one or two ‘outside courses’, courses outside your degree programme. The Academic Fair is your chance to find out more about the courses you’re eligible to take and meet students and staff from those courses to help make up your mind. You’ll also be able to speak to the Careers Service, Study Abroad and Peer Learning and Support teams. To get the most out of the fair, check out the Academic Fair section of ed.ac.uk/new-students and research your course options before you attend. You can also speak to the Path team on the day for advice. After the Academic Fair you need to meet with your Personal Tutor to discuss and then confirm your course choices. Education, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Architecture and some Law students are likely to have a more restricted timetable and should check with their relevant Schools for more information. The Academic Fair will take place during Welcome Week on Tuesday 13 September at 50 George Square. Look out for details of your School’s attendance slot.
VISIT THE ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS FAIRS AND FRESHERS’ EXPO Join a club, society or volunteering group! There are so many things you can get involved in, whatever your interests, plus it’s a great way to meet people. See your What’s On Guide for details of the Activities and Sports Fairs, join societies and volunteering groups online at eusa.ed.ac.uk/activities and check out more information in the Get Involved section of this guide. The Freshers’ Expo takes place in Potterrow on Monday 12 September and is your chance to stock up on freebies, discounts and special offers. Get there early for the pick of the goodies! TOUR THE CAMPUS Get to know your way around and become acquainted with your association buildings, lecture theatres, library, cafés and shops around the campuses where you’ll be spending most of your time. You’ll find a schedule for these tours on the University app. You can also find information on library tours at ed.ac.uk/new-students. Get to know the libraries now and thank yourself later! SEE THE CITY TOURS A great way to see the sights and find out what’s on offer in the city you will be living in for the next few years. See the City tours are free if you have a Freshers’ Wristband, and cost up to £5 without. These tours are always popular and spaces are limited so get your ticket early! All tickets (including free tickets for Freshers’ Wristband holders) must be picked up on the day of the tour — see your What’s On Guide for more details.
13
Get the oicial Edinburgh University Students’ Association app from September 2016!
eusa.ed.ac.uk/app
The Freshers’ Wristband is the hot ticket you need during Welcome Week! Freshers’ Wristbands are available exclusively to new students at the University of Edinburgh, and the more Welcome Week events you attend, the more you save!
BB If you want to be at the hottest parties
in town, come to the Freshers’ Ball, Big Cheese featuring Reggie & Bollie, the Big Ceilidh at Potterrow, Game of Thrones Rave with HODOR and catch Lawson live, and save £15 with your Freshers’ Wristband
BB Get a flavour of your new home and save £8
when you use your Freshers’ Wristband to come to the Freshers’ Ball, Meet the Brewer, Meet the Distiller, Cocktails and Cupcakes, two See The City tours and catch hot Scottish band Fatherson
BB Or sample a bit of everything on offer and
use your Freshers’ Wristband to come to the unmissable Freshers’ Ball, a See the City tour, a live show from hypnotist Adam Night, live gigs with Lawson and Ed Gamble and the Beach Party at Potterrow, saving yourself £16
There’s no limit on how many events you attend with your Freshers’ Wristband, so get yours now and prepare for a Welcome Week to remember! All events and Students’ Association venues will remain open to non-wristband holders, although tickets will need to be purchased for some events — check out your What’s On Guide for details. Remember, the more Welcome Week events you attend, the more you save with a Freshers’ Wristband! Wristbands cost £40 and can be purchased in advance from eusa.ed.ac.uk/shop. Look out for great value bundles combining your wristband with University of Edinburgh t-shirts, hoodies, diaries and NUS Extra cards! If you buy a wristband only you can collect it from Pollock Halls on Saturday 10 or Sunday 11 September or from the Welcome Week Box Office in Teviot Row House garden any day during Welcome Week.
Bundles can only be bought in advance while stocks last, and will be ready for you to pick up from the Welcome Week Box Office in Teviot Row House garden, which is open throughout Welcome Week. If you’ve purchased a bundle and want to get your hands on your wristband as soon as possible, you can pick up your wristband at Pollock Halls on Saturday 10 or Sunday 11 September, and pick up the rest of your bundle later in the week at the Box Office.
GET STARTED
FRESHERS’ WRISTBAND Pick up hours at Pollock Halls are 11am-8pm on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September. The Welcome Week Box Office in Teviot Row House garden will be open 9am-9pm every day during Welcome Week. You can also buy wristbands from the Welcome Week Box Office when you arrive. Look after your wristband, as they cannot be replaced if lost, and we won’t be able to accept any wristbands that have been altered. It’s your ticket to an unforgettable Welcome Week!
BB Free bottle of water with any purchase in any Students’ Association shop (all day) BB Free bacon roll in the New Amphion,** Teviot Row House (9am-11am) BB 2 for 1 pizza in the Library Bar, Teviot Row House (4pm-9pm) BB Half price nachos in the Dome Café, Potterrow (all day) BB Half price hot drinks in King’s Buildings
YOUR FRESHERS’ WRISTBAND ALSO GETS YOU:*
House and JCMB (all day)
*Terms and conditions: Redeem at point of sale by showing your Freshers’ Wristband. Valid 10-17 September only. Subject to availability. Discounts have no cash value. One redemption per offer per day. Students’ Association shops are at David Hume Tower, Potterrow, Pollock Halls, King’s Buildings House and King’s Buildings Centre. **Vegetarian option available.
15
STUDENT LIFE 18 | FINANCE 20 | HELP AND SUPPORT 22 | GETTING AROUND EDINBURGH 24 | TEACHING AND LEARNING
17
FINANCE BB Shop around for the best student bank account BB Remember, many businesses offer student discounts BB Check out the Advice Place Guide to Banking STUDENT LIFE
— it never hurts to ask!
As a student, learning to budget effectively is crucial, especially with so many things to pay for including rent, food, bills, study materials and socialising. The funding you receive, and the amount of fees you are required to pay, vary depending on your circumstances. You should have this in place before you arrive at university. If you need advice on anything from applying for funding to opening a bank account and managing your budget contact the Advice Place or visit eusa.ed.ac.uk/adviceplace.
OPEN A STUDENT BANK ACCOUNT
Shop around for a good starter deal. Many have handy offers like free travel cards, but watch the small print for fines and charges. It’s a good idea to do this before you start university, especially if you are applying for a student loan, as the money will be paid directly into your bank account. To open a student account, you may need to produce the following:
BB A copy of your student loan form BB Proof of your student status e.g. your UCAS letter BB Identification, e.g. passport or full driving licence BB Proof of term-time or home address
If you have any questions, check out the Advice Place Guide to Banking at eusa.ed.ac.uk/adviceplace or pop into the Advice Place in Potterrow.
18
If you’re faced with unexpected financial difficulty, contact the Advice Place. You may be able to apply to the Discretionary Fund or the Hardship Fund for financial help. In order to apply, you must be in current financial need and be in receipt of the maximum amount of funding that you’re able to apply for (e.g. student loan, bursary etc.). You cannot normally apply before you have received the first instalment of your funding.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
International students living in university accommodation will have a ‘Proof of Address’ letter on collection of keys, downloadable from your MyEd page, which can be used when opening a bank account. International students not staying in university accommodation can obtain a ‘Proof of Address’ letter from the Student Information Point at the Student Administration Department in Old College. These letters will be accepted at certain banks which have an agreed arrangement with the University. For more information on international student banking and to request this letter visit ed.ac.uk/studentadministration/order-documents/bank-letter.
SCAMS
If it seems to be too good to be true it probably is! If in any doubt get in touch with the Advice Place before you give over personal details or money. You can find useful info on how to protect yourself at moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/beginnersguide-to-scams.
PART-TIME JOBS
Full-time students are advised not to work more than 15 hours a week during semester time, to make sure you can balance earning and learning, not to mention time for a social life! Check out the University’s own job vacancy database MyCareerHub on your MyEd page or go to mycareerhub.ed.ac.uk for more information. You can also speak to a Careers Consultant who will help you with your job search. Your Students’ Association is one of the largest employers of students in Edinburgh, both during the academic year and during summer’s famous festival season. Visit eusa.ed.ac.uk/jobs to see what’s currently available. Jobs will also usually be advertised on MyCareerHub.
STUDENT LIFE
DISCRETIONARY FUND AND HARDSHIP FUND
SUMMER WORK/INTERNSHIPS
Internships or placements are a great way of spending the summer, learning new skills, and meeting people in the industry. MyCareerHub is continuously updated with the latest internships and graduate schemes for companies around the world.
USEFUL FINANCE TIPS
BOOKS: Try buying textbooks second-hand and check out charity shops for some cheap reads. DISCOUNTS: Take advantage of student discounts and offers at book shops, clothes shops and some cafes and restaurants. INSURANCE: Insure your possessions (either as a separate policy or as part of your parents’ home insurance). TRAVEL: Book tickets for trains, planes and buses well in advance. Get a 16-25 Railcard — everyone aged 16–25 is eligible, as is anyone over 25 who’s studying for 15 hours a week at least 20 weeks of the year.
19
HELP AND SUPPORT STUDENT LIFE
BB There’s a huge amount of support available if you need it BB You can also access peer learning and support from fellow BB Find contact details for a full range of organisations in the students — see page 26 in this guide directory at the end of this guide
ADVICE PLACE
The Advice Place is the Students’ Association’s free advice service for all students. Our team of professional staff are here to give you impartial, confidential advice and information. We have offices at Potterrow in Central Campus and in King’s Buildings House. Feel free to pop in and see us, and check out all of our free advice online at eusa.ed.ac.uk/adviceplace.
NIGHTLINE
Nightline is a confidential student-run support and information service run especially for students in Edinburgh throughout the semester. Call Nightline between 8pm and 8am on 0131 557 4444 for practical information or just for a chat. Find out more at ednightline.com.
20
The Student Counselling Service supports students who are facing difficulties while studying. They offer one-to-one counselling as well as self-help resouces and a series of workshops for students throughout the academic year. Find out more at ed. ac.uk/schools-departments/student-counselling.
STUDENT DISABILITY SERVICE
STUDENT LIFE
STUDENT COUNSELLING SERVICE
The Student Disability Service provides advice and support for students with dyslexia, mental health issues and students on the autistic spectrum, as well as those who have physical and sensory impairments. Services they offer include exam support such as extra time, computers or scribes, support assistants, financial aid and dyslexia screening. Make an appointment with an adviser to discuss what support may be available for you. Find out more at ed.ac.uk/disability-office.
FRESHERS’ VOLUNTEERS
Freshers’ Volunteers are available throughout Welcome Week to assist with any queries or problems you may have, big or small. If you have any questions, get lost or simply want information on what to do next look out for them in their yellow or orange t-shirts.
21
STUDENT LIFE
GETTING AROUND EDINBURGH BB Walk if you can — a free and healthy way to see this BB Remember the free term time shuttle bus between beautiful and compact city
BB In an emergency, we’ll get you a taxi home Central and King’s Buildings campuses
— see eusa.ed.ac.uk/taxi for more info
Edinburgh is a fantastic city for walking, so get out and explore when you can! Edinburgh has great bus, tram and train systems, and is also cycle friendly. The Advice Place Guide to Travel in Edinburgh is full of useful information — download it from eusa.ed.ac.uk/adviceplace.
CITY BUS ROUTES
The main student bus route within the city is from Central Campus (Buccleuch St) to King’s Buildings, and is served by buses 41 and 42. A free shuttle bus also operates during term time. You can find the timetable at ed.ac.uk/students/living-in-edinburgh/ transport. Marchmont Road to King’s Buildings is covered by bus 24; and Pollock Halls of Residence (Dalkeith Rd) to Princes St is covered by buses 2, 14, 30 and 33. All of these routes are operated by Lothian Buses. Find out more at lothianbuses.com, where you can also find details of night services and discounted Student Ridacards.
EMERGENCY TAXI SCHEME
We’ve arranged an emergency taxi scheme with a local company, to make sure University of Edinburgh students are never stranded after a night out. If you need it, you just need to give your student number to the driver, and we’ll pay the fare and check in with you later to arrange for it to be paid back. Check out eusa.ed.ac.uk/taxi for more info.
22
23
STUDENT LIFE
TEACHING AND LEARNING BB Look at the information provided by your course to find BB Get to know key people, including your Personal Tutor,
STUDENT LIFE
out what type of classes you’ll have
BB There’s no one size fits all study method — find out what course tutors and class reps
BB University can be a lot to take in, especially if you’ve just works for you
left school. This section will help you know what to expect
LECTURES, TUTORIALS AND OTHER CLASSES
Class types vary depending on your programme of study, but you can usually expect a mix of:
BB Lectures (50 minutes). Take notes and remember to jot down any questions to ask at the end of the lecture or in a tutorial. Lecturers should upload their PowerPoint slides to Learn (see page 53), where you can review them again later. You might also find it useful to record lectures on your phone or a Dictaphone
BB Tutorials (50 minutes). These compulsory
interactive sessions are generally smaller than lectures, usually with around eight to fifteen students per group, and may be held weekly or fortnightly
BB Science practicals (up to 3 hours) Science students
will be required to attend compulsory practicals, putting into action material learned in lectures. Other science course components could include lab reports and assessed coursework
Group work, placements and presentations are also components of some courses.
24
PERSONAL TUTORS Every new student is allocated a Personal Tutor, typically a member of teaching staff from your main subject area, who provides you with academic guidance. Your Personal Tutor acts as your first point of contact if you have any concerns or problems with your programme. They can also advise on subject choices. COURSE TUTORS Course Tutors can help if you have queries about your course or assessments. They are responsible for setting your tutorial programme and marking essays.
STUDENT LIFE
WHO’S WHO
COURSE ORGANISERS Course Organisers are responsible for overseeing the structure and organisation of each course and ensuring it is delivered to students appropriately. While you may be introduced to the organisers at the beginning of each semester, you may otherwise have few direct dealings with them. You might, however, be referred to them should you have any issues that cannot be dealt with by your Personal Tutor or Course Tutor. STUDENT SUPPORT OFFICERS Your School will have a student support team who can provide guidance on both pastoral and academic matters. Look on your School’s section of the University website for contact details at ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/ colleges-schools. CLASS REPRESENTATIVES Class Reps are students who act as the link between students and staff at a course and departmental level, ensuring that the University is continually engaging with students to improve teaching, learning, assessment, and academic service. Class Reps are chosen within their course or programme at the beginning of each semester. They gather feedback from students and bring up any issues of concern or suggestions for improvement. Work with your Class Rep to pass on feedback — or become a Class Rep yourself! More information can be found at eusa.ed.ac.uk/classreps.
25
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMS
IN-COURSE ASSESSMENT Assessments differ according to subject. Many degrees will use essays but science students will also be required to write lab reports and carry out marked exercises. Other forms of assessment may include field trips, placements, group work and presentations. Check your course handbooks for what sort of assessments you can expect and how these will contribute to your overall mark.
STUDENT LIFE
ESSAYS AND FEEDBACK Essay regulations, such as length, format and referencing requirements will either be in your course handbook or provided by your tutor or lecturer. Get referencing tips at eusa.ed.ac.uk/citeright. Marked essays should be returned with feedback; make use of criticisms and advice to help develop your essay-writing skills. If you are unclear about anything, speak to your tutor. If you are not getting any feedback approach your Class Representative. Late submission of essays will normally be penalised by a reduction in your overall mark. If you have extenuating circumstances and require an extension you should speak to your Course Tutor or Personal Tutor as soon as possible. EXAMS Exams often form the biggest part of your assessment at university and normally take place at the end of each semester in December and May. However, class exams can be set throughout the semester. For information on exam timetables, past papers and regulations see ed.ac.uk/student-administration/exams. STUDY AND REVISION There are numerous study spaces across the university as well as the four Students’ Association buildings, from libraries to cafés, computer labs, areas for group work and quiet reading rooms. Some Schools and departments also have their own study spaces which you can use. There is no ‘right way’ to study or revise. Some students read their lecture notes from start to finish, others prefer to use skeleton notes, diagrams or mnemonics. In practice, a mixture of techniques is best for dealing with different subjects and providing variety when studying. Check out the Advice Place Guides to exams and deadlines at eusa.ed.ac.uk/adviceplace, and remember not to leave it all to the last minute!
26
PEER LEARNING AND SUPPORT
Peer Learning and Support at Edinburgh means more experienced students supporting less experienced students in their transition to university and beyond. It is a great way to meet people on your courses, get help from other students who’ve been where you are now and make the most of your study time. Peer-led learning can also improve your academic confidence and performance. You can find out more about groups in your school by visiting eusa.ed.ac.uk/peersupport or asking at your School office.
PEER PROOFREADING
Peer proofreading is a service available to non-native English speakers. Students can submit two assignments per semester to be checked for grammar and spelling mistakes. To find out more about the scheme visit eusa.ed.ac.uk/proofreading.
INSTITUTE FOR ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Institute for Academic Development (IAD) have a range of excellent resources to help you study effectively, and to prepare for exams. These include online tutorials, tip sheets, revision methods, and access to study advisers. The IAD also run workshops throughout the year designed to help you improve specific aspects of your academic work, such as academic writing, reading critically and time management. Find out more at ed.ac.uk/institute-academic-development.
GET INVOLVED 28 | ABOUT YOUR STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION 30 | ACTIVITIES: SOCIETIES AND VOLUNTEERING 38 | GLOBAL 39 | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CENTRE 39 | EDINBURGH AWARD 40 | GYMS AND SPORTS
27
ABOUT YOUR STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION BB Explore our four venues during Welcome Week
BB Use your voice! Make sure you vote for your student — they’ll feel like home in no time!
BB There really is something for everyone, so explore our GET INVOLVED
representatives — why not stand for election yourself? venues, services and opportunities and get ready to meet new people and have fun!
BB We’re your organisation, run by students, for students.
There’s so much going on, make sure you explore what’s on offer and get involved!
ACTIVITIES: SOCIETIES AND VOLUNTEERING
Our Activities team help administer over 250 student-led societies and volunteering groups, so there’s sure to be something for you! Check out our huge range of groups from page 31 of this guide or at eusa.ed.ac.uk/activities, and make sure you head along to the Activities Fair in Potterrow and Teviot Row House on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 September during Welcome Week, where you can meet current members and sign up. You can also access hundreds of opportunities with local charities through our volunteering system.
FOUR OUTSTANDING VENUES
Unlike most Students’ Associations, we have not one venue, nor two, not even three but four unbeatable Students’ Association venues across the University! Teviot Row House, our iconic venue in the heart of Central campus, is the oldest purpose built students’ union building in the world, and has been one of the most popular ever since it first opened its doors in 1889. Here and in our venues at Pleasance, Potterrow and King’s Buildings House, you’ll find a wide choice of places to grab a drink, a coffee or a bite to eat, to study or catch up with friends, to get involved in a society or volunteering group or to have a great night out. Before you know it, these venues will feel like your new homes from home! Check out all they have to offer at eusa.ed.ac.uk/ourvenues. All profits made in our venues and shops go back into the services we provide for you.
28
UNMISSABLE ENTERTAINMENT
Welcome Week is just the beginning! From club nights to live music and comedy to quizzes, we have an unrivalled programme of events year round. Check out eusa.ed.ac.uk/whatson for details of our weekly events and special one off happenings including music festivals, special guests, and food and drink themed events.
COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT
We’re here for all students, whenever you need us. Our Advice Place service offers you professional, impartial advice, and our Peer Learning and Support schemes connect you with other students on your course. If there are issues you think need to be addressed for all students, you can raise them with your elected representatives — find out more about our elected structures below.
REPRESENTATION AND CAMPAIGNING
We’re here to represent all 35,000+ students at this University, from first years to postgraduates and everyone in between. All students are eligible to stand and vote in our elections, where student reps are selected across a variety of roles:
BB Sabbatical Officers BB School Reps BB Campaign Organisers BB Student Trustees & Trading Committee Members BB Liberation Group Convenors BB Student Group Convenors Following overwhelming support in a student referendum in spring 2016, we’ll be making improvements to our democratic structures across 2016/17, so look out for more details as we work even harder to represent your interests.
GET INVOLVED
As well as participating in referenda and voting on important issues, students are at the heart of our representative structures:
ATTEND
ATTEND
ATTEND
STUDENT GROUP REPS
CAMPAIGN ORGANISERS
ELECT
ELECT
ELECT
ELECT
ATTEND
ATTEND
LIBERATION GROUP REPS
ELECT
SCHOOL REPS
CLASS REPS
SELECT
SABBATICAL OFFICERS
STUDENT TRUSTEES
ELECT
ATTEND
STUDENT COUNCIL
STUDENTS
29
ACTIVITIES: SOCIETIES AND VOLUNTEERING BB Come along to the Activities Fair to find the group
BB Don’t be shy — even if you’re a complete beginner, our — or groups! — for you
BB Use our online system to access volunteering
groups are always keen for new people to join
GET INVOLVED
opportunities in Edinburgh
There are hundreds of societies and volunteering groups you can get involved in through our Activities team. Here are just some of the great reasons to get involved:
BB It’s fun! Whether you’re putting on a dance show BB It’s a great way to meet new people! Bonding over or indulging a passion for Harry Potter, you’ll be committing to doing more of something you love
BB You’ll learn new skills. Not only will your
shared interests helps you make friends and build up your support network here in Edinburgh extra-curricular activities make your CV stand out to future employers, you might even find inspiration for your future career!
30
SOCIETIES
We have over 250 societies here at Edinburgh, and being involved in one (or many!) is a great way to take a break from the books and get the most from your university experience. Check out our range of societies and find out more about each one at eusa.ed.ac.uk/societies. You can join a society online at any point in the year, but a great time to check them out, speak to current members and ask any questions is at the Activities Fair during Welcome Week, taking place on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 September in Potterrow and Teviot Row House.
Paediatrics Society
ACADEMIC ArchSoc Astrobiology Society Biology Society Biochemistry Society Biomedical Society Chemical Engineering Society Chemistry Society Civil Engineering Society Classics Society Cognitive Science Society CompSoc E-scape Economics Society
Philosophy Society Physics Society Plant Science Society Political Union Psychology Society Retrospect Social Policy Society Society for Economic Pluralism Society of Immunology and Infectious Diseases Sociology Society SynBio Society University of Edinburgh Society for Quantitative Research Young Scientific Researchers’ Association Zoological Society
Endocrinology Society Engineering Society Engineering Innovation Society European Union Society Geographical Society Geological Society Graduate Law Society History Society Hyped International Development Society Late Antique and Medieval Postgraduate Society (LAMPS) LangSoc
GET INVOLVED
Global Health Society
MathSoc Mechanical Engineering Society Neurological Society Nursing Society Ophthalmology Society
31
ADVICE AND COMMUNITY BLOGS (LGBT+ Society) First Aid Society Mental Health and Wellbeing Society Postgrad Society
GET INVOLVED
Sexpression
APPRECIATION Aberdeen FC Supporters Club Anime and Animation Society Baking Society Beer & Brewing Society ChillOut Society Cocktail Society Coffee Society Doctor Who Society Film Society Goth and Rock Society Harry Potter Society Literature Society Medieval Re-enactment Society Science Fiction and Fantasy Society Sign Language Society SocieTEA Student Architecture Society Tolkien Society Vegetarian Society Water of Life Society Wine Society
32
ARTISTIC AND CREATIVE
DANCE, MUSIC AND THEATRE
Art Soc
A Cappella
Create Society
African Dance Society
Game Development Society
African Drumming Society
History of Art Society
Arabic Bellydance Society
KnitSoc
Ballroom Dancing Society
Movie Production Society
Bhangra Crew
Nomad Magazine
Brass Band
Photographic Society
Capoeira Society
PublishED
Chamber Choir Chamber Orchestra Clarinet Choir
CAMPAIGNING AND FUNDRAISING
Dance Music Society
Amnesty International Society
Female Voice Choir
Engineers Without Borders ESCAPE Feminist Society First Aid Africa Friends of MSF Hearty Squirrel Food Co-operative MedAID Medical Aid Edinburgh Medsin-Edinburgh One Health People & Planet Project Mongolia Save the Children Society Student Stop AIDS Student Voice for Animal Rights Students for Justice in Palestine UNICEF On Campus
FolkSoc Footlights Guild of Change Ringers Hip Hop Society Jazz Orchestra Law School Music Society Les Escogriffes Modern Dance Society Music Society Musical Medics New Scotland Country Dance Society Piping and Drumming Society Pole Dance Society
GET INVOLVED
Edinburgh Global Partnerships
Dick Vet Musicians
Reeling Club Revue Revelation Rock-Gospel Choir Salsa Society Savoy Opera Group Shakespeare Company Singers String Orchestra Studio Opera Swing Dance Society Tango Society Theatre Company Theatre Paradok Untapped Talent West Coast Swing Dance Society Wind Band
33
EMPLOYMENT, TRANSFERABLE SKILLS AND FINANCE AIESEC Edinburgh Bright Futures Business Society Debates Union Diagnostic Society ICUE Model United Nations Society TEDx Trading and Investment Club (EUTIC) Translators’ Society
FAITH, BELIEF AND SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT Bahá’i Society Catholic Students’ Union Christian Union
GET INVOLVED
Hindu Society Humanist Society Islamic Society Jewish Society Orthodox Student Society Qi Gong Quaker Society Student Christian Movement
GAMING AND ROLEPLAYING Bridge Club Chess Society FAQ: The Card and Board Game Society Grand Edinburgh Adventuring Society League of Legends Society Murder Mystery Society Poker Society Video Gaming Society Wargames Society What? Where? When?
34
INTERNATIONAL AND MULTICULTURAL An Comann Ceilteach Bruneian Edinburgh Society Bulgarian Society Chilean Society Chinese Student Association Dutch Society Estonian Society Exchange 360 Filipino Society French Society German Society Hellenic Society Hong Kong International Society Hungarian Society Indonesian Society Japanese Society Korean Society Latin American Society Malaysian Students’ Association Mexican Society Middle Eastern Society Myanmar Society Nigerian Society North American Society Pakistan Society
GET INVOLVED
Lithuanian Society
Persian Society Polish Society Romanian Society Russian Society Scandinavian Society Singapore Students’ Society Slovak and Czech Society South African Society South Asian Students’ Association Spanish Society Swahili Club Thai Society Turkish Society Welsh Society Yugo Soc
35
MEDIA AND BROADCASTING EUTV FreshAir
GET INVOLVED
Student Newspaper
PHYSICAL AND OUTDOORS Air Squadron Allotment and Permaculture Society Exmoor Pony Trekking Society Juggling Society Tai Chi Society Yoga Society
POLITICAL Anarchist Society Conservative and Unionist Association Edinburgh Political Union Kashmir Solidarity Movement Labour Students Liberal Youth Life Society Marxist Society SNP Society Sustainable Development Society The Buchanan Institute Young Greens
36
VOLUNTEERING
Want to meet new people, help your local community, build your job skills and have fun at the same time? Then take a look at the hundreds of exciting opportunities online at eusa.ed.ac.uk/volunteering. Volunteering can match your hobbies or your course, from working with conservation and the environment, to teaching languages to children in schools or working with the elderly. You can even start your own volunteering group or projects, engaging with local communities and working closely with local and national charities. You may also log your hours throughout the year to receive the Edinburgh Award for Volunteering, which appears on your degree transcript. Volunteering can be a great way to make the most of your time at university and by donating a few hours a week, you can help make a big difference in people’s lives. The time you commit can be flexible, and you can volunteer during holidays if you’re not able to take up opportunities during term time.
EDINBURGH STUDENTS’ CHARITIES APPEAL (ESCA)
Edinburgh Students’ Charities Appeal (ESCA) coordinates fundraising activities run by students across the city. Through innovative and fun events, from sponsored hitch hikes to the Meadows Marathon and diving with sharks, ESCA students raise thousands of pounds each year for good causes in Scotland and around the world. You can get involved with ESCA’s existing team, or organise your own fundraising event for a charity of your choice. The ESCA team are based in the Activities Office in Potterrow, and will provide you with professional advice, as well as practical support in the form of collecting buckets, money counting and glowsticks for selling at the Big Cheese, our weekly club night. Find out more at escaonline.org.
VOLUNTEERING GROUPS Art in the Community Edinburgh Arts & Heritage Best Buddies Edinburgh Children’s Holiday Venture Dirty Weekenders
GET INVOLVED
Check out our current volunteering groups, and get in touch with the Activities team if you’d like to know more, or to start up your own group.
Edinburgh Archaeological Outreach Project ENACTUS eVOLve Foreign Language Outreach Inspire – Lloyds Scholars Mandarin Language Project Patient Outreach Project Teddy Bear Hospital Edinburgh
37
GLOBAL BB Brush up your language skills with Tandem
BB Be part of Edinburgh’s global community with Language Exchange
BB Take a free beginners’ language class
GET INVOLVED
the Gather Festival
Our award winning Global programme aims to expand the global experience for Edinburgh students through activities such as Tandem Language Exchange, the Gather Festival and a variety of events throughout the year.
TANDEM LANGUAGE EXCHANGE
Tandem is a free language-exchange programme that offers a wide range of events where students can meet and practice their language skills. Attend a Speed Lingua event, find a partner online on the Tandem Database, or attend the weekly Language Cafés at both King’s Buildings and Central campuses. See eusa.ed.ac.uk/tandem for more information. There are also free beginners’ classes in a range of languages. Classes rotate each semester and places fill up fast so be sure to book as soon as possible at eusa.ed.ac.uk/languages.
GATHER FESTIVAL
Run in conjunction with the University’s International Office, Gather is an annual festival celebrating culture, community and the ethos of global citizenship on campus and beyond. Taking place at the start of Semester 2, you can choose from dozens of fun, exciting events, and can even get involved in leading or volunteering at events. Visit gatheruoe. wordpress.com for more information.
38
The International Student Centre (ISC) on Buccleuch Place is open 12pm-4pm Monday to Friday. Here you can grab a free tea or coffee, meet fellow international students and get any advice you need on life in Edinburgh. The ISC organises social events throughout the year, including pub and movie nights, and weekend trips outside Edinburgh. For more information on events or to get involved, visit edinburghisc.com.
EDINBURGH AWARD
GET INVOLVED
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CENTRE
The Edinburgh Award is run across the University of Edinburgh, and recognises students’ work in various areas outside of their degree programme. Taking part involves logging the hours you spend doing various activities and reflecting on the skills you have developed. The Award then appears on your University transcript when you graduate. You can work towards an Edinburgh Award by volunteering, being on a society committee, being a student rep, getting involved in our Global or Peer Learning and Support programmes or working for the Students’ Association. Find out more at eusa.ed.ac.uk/edinburghaward.
39
GYMS AND SPORTS BB Access great gym facilities from just £3 per month BB Join a sports club or keep it casual with the
BB If you’d like to be more active but don’t know where intra-mural programme
GET INVOLVED
to start, check out the Support for Physical Activity (SPA) programme
KING’S BUILDINGS HOUSE SPORTS MEMBERSHIP
Your Students’ Association offers a comprehensive range of sports and leisure facilities at King’s Buildings House. Facilities and services include the gym, squash/racket ball courts, badminton, exercise and relaxation classes, and sports equipment sales and hire. You can also pop into our shop, deli, bar or food court for a well-earned post-workout snack, meal or drink. Membership for students starts at just £3 per month. Visit eusa.ed.ac.uk/kbfitness for more info.
40
THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH SPORT AND EXERCISE
Sport and Exercise provides activities at both recreational and competitive levels, which are available at a number of sites in the city. The Pleasance Sports Complex and Gym offers an array of facilities including studio space (exercise and dance classes), MyGym (body conditioning) and underground vaults (bench free weights) as well as the Katherine Grainger Rowing Gym and an indoor studio cycling space called Velocity. In addition, there is a 102-station cardiovascular gym with personal TV screens, body circuit gym, fixed weights gym, free weights gym, two sports halls, two dance studios, four squash courts and dedicated facilities for boxing, archery, rifle shooting, climbing and bouldering. The Pleasance Gym offers exercise classes each week and a range of workshops. There is also a 25 metre, six lane swimming pool just next door in the St. Leonard’s Land building, off Holyrood Road.
INTRA-MURAL SPORT
If intense competition is not for you, the intra-mural programme offers a more relaxed alternative to club sport. Groups of friends or halls of accommodation can compete against each other in weekly leagues, with the emphasis on taking part and having fun. Simply choose your sport — football, hockey, netball, rugby, basketball, squash or cricket — and sign up during Welcome Week to take part. For more information, visit the Sports Fair or email eusu.vpim@ed.ac.uk.
SUPPORT FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PROGRAMME
If you’d like to be more active but aren’t sure where to start, the University offers a free Support for Physical Activity programme, where you can meet with an advisor to get ideas and set goals for your fitness based on your likes, dislikes and timetable. Visit ed.ac.uk/sport-exercise/healthy-university/supportfor-physical-activity-programme for more info.
Firbush, 80 miles north of Edinburgh, is the University’s residential centre for the outdoors. Situated on Loch Tay, it supports both summer water sports and extensive winter activities. Check out the Sport & Exercise website at sport.ed.ac.uk for more details, exercise classes, pool timetables and membership.
SPORTS CLUBS
GET INVOLVED
Edinburgh students also have access to the FASIC Sports Injury Centre and Scotland’s National Hockey Academy at Peffermill, which has two astro-turf pitches, artificial tennis courts and cricket nets, natural turf pitches, a golf practice area and a 100-metre training track.
Edinburgh University Sports Union (EUSU) is the student-run body responsible for all sports clubs at the University. Edinburgh is the number one sporting institution in Scotland and consistently ranks within the top five in the UK. With 63 sports clubs, there is a broad variety of sports on offer and many students have been successful in a sport they only discovered at university. From ice hockey to skydiving, there really is something for everyone! To find out more about sports clubs, visit the Sports Fair at Pleasance Sports Complex and Gym on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 September, and visit ed.ac.uk/sports-union for all the latest sporting news.
41
Join KB Fitness for as little as £3 a month! King’s Buildings House For more information on how to join email info@eusa.ed.ac.uk or call 0131 650 5772. Visit eusa.ed.ac.uk/kbfitness
WELLBEING 44 | HEALTHCARE 46 | MENTAL HEALTH 47 | SEXUAL HEALTH AND PREGNANCY 48 | ALCOHOL 49 | DRUGS 49 | PERSONAL SAFETY
43
HEALTHCARE BB Make your life easier by registering with National Health
Service providers when you arrive — don’t wait until you need them!
BB Know your limits — don’t let too much alcohol ruin
BB Check out the directory at the back of this guide for lots your night
of handy contacts
WELLBEING
REGISTERING WITH HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS
Register with a local doctor, even if you already have one in the UK. If you live in the practice area, you can register with the University Health Centre — you’ll need your student card, additional photo ID and proof of your Edinburgh address. Most University accommodation blocks and surrounding areas are in the practice area, but if you’re not sure, staff there can advise if you’re eligible. Find out more at health-service.ed.ac.uk. If you’re outside the practice area, find your local doctor at nhs24.com. If you are currently accessing specialist services such as eating disorder, mental health or chronic illness support, it’s important you discuss and arrange transitional support. Try to register with dentists as an NHS patient, which is much cheaper than paying for private treatment, although there may be a waiting list. You can check nhs24.com to find a dentist in your area. There’s also an independent dental surgery and opticians called Vitality in your Students’ Association building at Potterrow. Eye tests are free in Scotland, so there’s no excuse for not having your eyes checked! You’ll find branches of most major opticians throughout the city.
ACCESSING NHS SERVICES
If you need to speak to a health professional when your doctor’s surgery is closed, contact the NHS 24 helpline on 111. In an emergency, always call 999. For full information on accessing health services in Edinburgh, visit ed.ac.uk/new-students.
44
PRESCRIBED MEDICATION
If you’re currently taking any prescribed medication, it’s usually recommended you bring a three month supply with you, as well as a letter explaining what it is.
HOSPITALS
The Royal Infirmary 51 Little France Crescent Old Dalkeith Road 0131 536 1000 The Royal Infirmary operates a 24-hour Accident and Emergency (A&E) department and is located in Little France. Western General Hospital Crewe Road South 0131 537 1000 The Western General Hospital has a nurse-led Minor Injuries Clinic, open 8am–9pm every day of the year. Clinic staff treat a wide range of injuries including minor cuts and burns, infections and stings, suspected sprains and small bone breaks.
BLOOD DONATION
With 1,000 donations needed every day to meet the needs of Scotland’s patients, giving blood is extremely worthwhile. Most people who are in general good health can donate and the process is extremely easy. You can donate at the Blood Donation Centre on Lauriston Place, just down the road from Potterrow. Visit scotblood.co.uk for further information.
HEALTHCARE COSTS
Help with health-related costs, such as dental treatment and glasses or contact lenses, may be available if you are on a low income. Apply using an HC1 form, available from the Advice Place or most pharmacies. Prescriptions in Scotland are free of charge. Tampons and sanitary products are available free of charge to all students from the Advice Place.
WELLBEING
International students from outside the European Economic Area may need to pay a healthcare surcharge before accessing NHS care. You can get more information at ed.ac.uk/international-office/ immigration/applying-for-visa/health-surcharge.
45
MENTAL HEALTH One in four people will experience some kind of mental health problem at some time in their life. Stress and anxiety can be particularly prevalent among students, especially around exams and assessment time. There are some simple steps you can take to help stop yourself feeling unreasonably anxious:
BB Take a break from studying — make time to socialise and relax BB Get some sleep — being over-tired is strongly associated with stress BB Keep in touch with old friends and family BB Know it’s ok to ask for help or advice
WELLBEING
If you ever feel you are struggling, there’s lots of help available both on campus and throughout Edinburgh. Take a look at the directory at the back of this guide for organisations and services who can help. Remember you’re not alone. Helping students manage stress and mental health issues is an increasing priority on campus — have a look at some of the support available on eusa.ed.ac.uk/letstalk.
46
SEXUAL HEALTH AND PREGNANCY SAFER SEX
It is important to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancy. By always using a condom, or other safer sex products like femidoms and dental dams, you will better protect yourself against STIs. NHS Lothian run a confidential service service called the C:card scheme, allowing you to access safer sex products for free. Find out more at ccard.org.uk and sign up for a free card in the Advice Place, Potterrow or King’s Buildings House.
EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION
If your contraception fails, you can get emergency contraception (also called the morning-after pill) from your doctor or a pharmacy. There is no charge when getting the morning-after pill from your doctor but there may be a charge of around £30 if you buy it directly from a pharmacy without being registered with a GP. You can also get emergency contraception from the Chalmers Street Sexual Health Clinic. Remember that emergency contraception must be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex to be effective against pregnancy and is more likely to work the sooner it is taken. If you miss this 72 hour window a doctor may be able to prescribe you another form of emergency contraception that is effective up to five days after unprotected sex. Emergency contraception does not offer protection against STIs.
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS (STIs)
Everyone who is sexually active should get regular tests for STIs. The easiest way to do this in Edinburgh is to make an appointment at the Chalmers Street Sexual Health Clinic, who offer appointments and walk in clinics, including a dedicated clinic for men who have sex with men. See page 59.
PREGNANCY
If you become pregnant during your studies and would like help making a decision, you can contact your doctor for information and support. If you are continuing with your pregnancy, it’s recommended that you discuss how this will affect your studies with your Personal Tutor. You can also contact the Advice Place for further information on how this may impact on your course, your finances etc. If you think you might be pregnant you can pick up a free pregnancy test from the Advice Place.
WELLBEING
Whatever your sexual orientation or level of sexual activity, sexual health is important to your overall wellbeing.
47
ALCOHOL Lots of people associate university, and Welcome Week in particular, with alcohol. If you choose to drink then there are a number of ways that you can ensure that you remain safe and healthy. Current government guidelines recommend that nobody should regularly drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week. The number of units in a drink depends on the type and strength of drink, however as a general rule one unit roughly equals half a pint of beer, lager or cider, a small glass of wine or a single measure of spirits. Drinking over your limits can ruin a good night out, give you a nasty hangover and, over time, can cause health problems.
WELLBEING
If someone is displaying the following signs of alcohol poisoning seek medical attention immediately:
BB Shortness of breath BB Clammy or blue-tinge to their skin BB Does not wake up after vomiting BB Cannot be woken SPIKED DRINKS
The two most common drugs used to spike drinks are Rohypnol and GHB. They are colourless and odourless, and cause dizziness, confusion and memory loss.
TO PREVENT DRINK SPIKING: BB Eat! Don’t drink on an empty stomach; you can TIPSThink BB before accepting a drink from anyone; guarantee a nasty hangover the next day make sure you see it either poured or opened BB Try alternating between alcoholic drinks and BB Never leave a drink unattended. If your drink soft drinks or water throughout the night looks like it has been moved or topped up, or BB Know your own, and your friends’, drink if it tastes strange, abandon it tolerance level. Don’t leave your friends when BB Be aware of the signs. If you are feeling they need you or you need them light-headed, excessively drunk, or ill after BB Avoid confrontation. Walk away if you’re only a few drinks, let someone know and get being provoked to a safe place BB Get home safely. You are more vulnerable after BB Drinks do not have to be alcoholic to be spiked a few drinks. To avoid being a victim of crime BB Get your own! Do not share or exchange drinks get a licensed taxi or walk home with a group of friends. If you need it, we run an emergency BB Stay with friends. Avoid going to a pub taxi service — see more at eusa.ed.ac.uk/taxi or club alone BB Recover. After an episode of heavy drinking, THERE ARE NUMBER OF WAYS THAT YOU CAN DRINK MORE SAFELY:
give your body a break. It’s advisable not to drink alcohol again for at least 48 hours to allow your body to recover
BB Do not leave them to go home alone BB Ensure that they drink plenty of water BB When they go to bed, make sure they lie on HELPING A DRUNK FRIEND:
their side. Prop pillows behind them to prevent them from turning over — if they lie on their back and are sick they may choke
48
BEWARE OF ALCOHOL POISONING
PROVING YOUR AGE
You will need to prove you are over 18 to buy alcohol or get into most clubs. You can prove your age with an in-date, valid passport or UK driving licence, but some places (including your Students’ Association venues) are unable to accept international driving licenses. If this affects you, apply for a free Young Scot Card, available at young.scot/the-young-scot-card. If you are under 18, you can still go to all of your Students’ Association venues, including the club nights at Potterrow, but you cannot buy alcoholic drinks.
DRUGS Drugs can be very harmful to your physical and mental wellbeing, and most are now illegal in the UK. Many substances that were previously ‘legal highs’ are now illegal to produce, distribute, sell or supply. If you do choose to take drugs, make sure you consult the available resources to help you stay as safe and informed as possible about the effects, dangers and legality of the drugs. Never take something if you don’t know what it is, and know that even in doses of the same size, strength can vary widely between different batches and substances. If you choose to take a substance, make sure you are in a safe environment with people you trust, and don’t mix any substances with alcohol, as this can increase the dangers and negative effects. If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s drug use, there are many organisations who can offer advice and support. Check the directory at the back of this guide, or ask the Advice Place.
Edinburgh is typically a very safe city. However, it’s always wise to follow some basic guidelines to help you stay safe in the city and at home.
BB Don’t leave personal items or bags unattended and try not to carry large sums of money with you BB Try to avoid walking home alone at night. Don’t be tempted to take shortcuts across waste ground, through parks or dark alleys at night, and consider carrying a personal safety alarm BB If you think someone is following you, check by crossing the street. If you are still worried, find a crowded area and call the police BB If someone threatens you, shout and scream for help and set off your personal attack alarm if you have one. Try to remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible BB You have every right to defend yourself; however, it is illegal to carry an offensive weapon and you should never prioritise your possessions over your own safety BB The Advice Place often stocks free personal safety alarms which can be used if you feel threatened
WELLBEING
PERSONAL SAFETY
or fear being attacked
If you are a victim of a crime, you can report it to the police by calling 101 for non-emergencies. Always call 999 in an emergency. You can also report a crime through the Advice Place, which is a remote reporting centre. You can also ask to meet with the police in the Advice Place in Potterrow if you don’t want to go to a police station. There are contact details for other helpful organisations in the directory at the end of this guide.
49
UNIVERSITY RESOURCES 51 | CAREERS SERVICE 52 | CHAPLAINCY AND FAITH GROUPS 53 | INFORMATION SERVICES
50
BB Don’t wait until graduation — the Careers Service can help BB The Chaplaincy can put you in touch with any faith group BB Activate and monitor your university email address
CAREERS SERVICE Based in the Main Library, the Careers Service can help you plan for life after university as well as helping you access internships and student jobs while you’re here. They’re a great source of advice, and also offer events and workshops — check out the Careers Service website at ed.ac.uk/careers for up to date event listings and details of drop in sessions.
BB Looking for work. Get help with job hunting, volunteer work and summer internships BB Global opportunities. Learn about how and where you can work and study around the world BB Exploring your options. Arrange to meet an advisor to discuss your future plans BB Writing CVs, filling out application forms, going
UNIVERSITY RESOURCES
you throughout your degree
THE CAREERS SERVICE CAN HELP YOU WITH:
for interviews and practicing tests
51
CHAPLAINCY AND FAITH GROUPS Edinburgh is a multi-cultural city and there are facilities which cater for all faiths both on and off campus.
UNIVERSITY RESOURCES
The University Chaplaincy, right next door to Potterrow, provides pastoral and spiritual support for students and staff regardless of faith or beliefs. They have a Chaplaincy Support Team and private areas for meetings, reflection, one-to-one support and hospitality. Find out more at ed.ac.uk/chaplaincy.
52
There are contemplation rooms and prayer spaces at the King’s Buildings campus. Muslim prayer rooms are also available on both the King’s Buildings site and the Moray House site. New College has a contemplation room called ‘The Sanctuary’ which is underneath the Library. For more information about religious and faith societies run by students, see eusa.ed.ac.uk/societies or go along to the Activities Fair during Welcome Week. There are details of nearby facilities for a wide range of faith groups at ed.ac.uk/chaplaincy/religion.
INFORMATION SERVICES EASE
EASE is the University’s authentication system and you’ll use it to access web-based resources. You will already have registered with EASE when you applied to the University, but if you’ve forgotten your password go to ease.ed.ac.uk and click ‘Forgotten username/password’.
MYED
MyEd is the University’s web portal. It contains information about your degree details and grades, as well as providing up-to-date information on what’s happening at the University. The mobile-optimised version gives access to the key services. Access MyEd on a computer or mobile device at myed.ed.ac.uk.
STUDENT COMPUTING FACILITIES
To log on to one of the University’s open access computers you need a username and password. These are the same details that you use to log in with EASE. Before using the computers in public areas, you must activate your email account.
WIRELESS NETWORKING
See ed.ac.uk/students/new-students for details on how to register for wireless internet that you can access around the campus, in association buildings and the library. Where available, you should choose the eduroam network as it is secure.
LEARN
Learn is the main virtual learning environment for campus-based courses, providing web-based access to course handbooks, reading lists and assignments. Learn is on the Studies tab of MyEd. If your course uses Learn you will see your course listed there. Speak to your Course Organiser if you have questions.
UNIVERSITY RESOURCES
Information Services provide most of the computing, library and e-learning resources you will use at the University. For information on getting connected, downloading Microsoft Office for free, location of computer labs, library opening times and more visit ed.ac.uk/information-services/students/useful-info.
UNIVERSITY EMAIL
New students must activate their email in Office 365. Go to office365.ed.ac.uk and click the green ‘Activate’ button, or from MyEd click ‘Office 365 Email’ on the left-hand dashboard. The University, your tutors, Personal Tutor and Students’ Association will use your university email to keep in touch, so remember to check regularly or change the settings to forward the emails to another account.
53
DIRECTORY 55 | STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION BUILDINGS 56 | YOUR SABBATICAL OFFICERS 56 | UNIVERSITY SERVICES 58 | EXTERNAL ADVICE AND SUPPORT 59 | ALCOHOL, DRUGS AND SMOKING 59 | SEXUAL HEALTH AND PREGNANCY 60 | SPORT 60 | FINANCE
54
STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION BUILDINGS EDINBURGH UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION
KING’S BUILDINGS HOUSE
eusa.ed.ac.uk
Mayfield Road
reception@eusa.ed.ac.uk
EH9 3JF
@eusa /EdUniStudentsAssociation
ACTIVITIES TEAM
King’s Buildings
0131 650 5772
THE PLEASANCE 60 The Pleasance
eusa.ed.ac.uk/activities
EH8 9TJ
Potterrow and Pleasance
0131 650 2350
0131 650 9381
ADVICE PLACE
POTTERROW Potterrow
eusa.ed.ac.uk/adviceplace
5/2 Bristo Square
advice@eusa.ed.ac.uk
EH8 9AL
Text: 0753 740 2004
0131 650 2656
Potterrow 0131 650 9225 0800 206 2341 King’s Buildings House 0131 650 5822
TEVIOT ROW HOUSE 13 Bristo Square EH8 9AJ 0131 650 4673
DIRECTORY
/theadviceplace
55
YOUR SABBATICAL OFFICERS ALEC EDGECLIFFE-JOHNSON President
president@eusa.ed.ac.uk
UNIVERSITY SERVICES ACCOMMODATION, CATERING AND EVENTS accom.ed.ac.uk
/EdUniStudentsAssociationPresident
accom.allocations@ed.ac.uk
@eusapresident
Pollock Halls
PATRICK GARRATT
Vice President Academic Affairs vpaa@eusa.ed.ac.uk /VicePresidentAcademicAffairs @eusavpaa
JENNA KELLY
18 Holyrood Park Road EH16 5AY 0131 667 1971
CAREERS SERVICE
ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/careers careers@ed.ac.uk 3rd Floor, Main Library
Vice President Services
0131 650 4670
vps@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Weir Building,
/VicePresidentServices
King’s Buildings
@eusavps
West Mains Road 0131 650 5773
JESS HUSBANDS
Vice President Societies and Activities
DIRECTORY
vpsa@eusa.ed.ac.uk
CHAPLAINCY CENTRE ed.ac.uk/chaplaincy
/VicePresidentSocietiesActivities
chaplaincy@ed.ac.uk
@eusavpsa
1 Bristo Square EH8 9AL 0131 650 2595
FEES AND STUDENT SUPPORT ed.ac.uk/student-funding fees@ed.ac.uk Old College South Bridge EH8 9AL 0131 650 2230
56
INFORMATION SERVICES
STUDENT ADMINISTRATION
IS.Helpline@ed.ac.uk
registry@ed.ac.uk
Main Library
Old College
ed.ac.uk/is
ed.ac.uk/student-administration
South Bridge
INSTITUTE FOR ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT
ed.ac.uk/institute-academic-development 1 Morgan Lane
EH8 9YL 0131 650 2845
STUDENT COUNSELLING SERVICE
EH8 8FP
ed.ac.uk/student-counselling
0131 651 3598
student.counselling@ed.ac.uk 3rd Floor, Main Library
INTERNATIONAL OFFICE
0131 650 4170
33 Buccleuch Place
STUDENT DISABILITY SERVICE
ed.ac.uk/international-office EH8 9JS
ed.ac.uk/student-disability-service
0131 650 4296
disability.service@ed.ac.uk
MAIN LIBRARY
0131 650 6828
George Square
UNIVERSITY HEALTH SERVICE
ed.ac.uk/information-services/library-museum-gallery Edinburgh
health-service.ed.ac.uk
EH8 9LJ
Richard Verney Health Centre 6 Bristo Square
SCHOLARSHIPS AND STUDENT FUNDING ed.ac.uk/student-funding scholarships@ed.ac.uk 0131 651 4070
EH8 9AL 0131 650 2777
UNIVERSITY PHARMACY
DIRECTORY
3rd Floor, Main Library
pharmacy@ed.ac.uk 6 Bristo Square 0131 650 2525
57
EXTERNAL ADVICE AND SUPPORT ACTION ON DEPRESSION actionondepression.org
NHS 24
nhs24.com 111
B-EAT
b-eat.co.uk 0345 634 1414
NIGHTLINE ednightline.com
nightline@ed.ac.uk
BIG WHITE WALL
0131 557 4444
bigwhitewall.com/university
8pm to 8am daily
BREATHING SPACE
POLICE SCOTLAND
breathingspacescotland.co.uk
scotland.police.uk
0800 83 85 87
For non-urgent queries call 101. For emergencies call 999.
CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU citizensadviceedinburgh.org.uk 0131 557 1500
RAPE CRISIS SCOTLAND rapecrisisscotland.org.uk 08088 01 03 02
EDINBURGH WOMEN’S AID
DIRECTORY
edinwomensaid.co.uk
samaritans.org
0800 027 1234
116 123
EDSPACE
VICTIM SUPPORT
edspace.org.uk
victimsupportsco.org.uk 0345 603 9213
NATIONAL SELF-HARM NETWORK nshn.co.uk
support@nshn.co.uk
58
SAMARITANS
info@edinburghwomensaid.co.uk
ALCOHOL, DRUGS AND SMOKING
SEXUAL HEALTH AND PREGNANCY
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
CHALMERS STREET SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC
alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
help@alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk 0800 917 7650
CAN STOP SMOKING canstopsmoking.com
smokeline@nhs24.scot.nhs.uk
2A Chalmers Street EH3 9ES 0131 536 1070
FAMILY PLANNING ASSOCIATION fpa.org.uk
0800 84 84 84
CREW 2000
LOTHIAN SEXUAL HEALTH lothiansexualhealth.scot.nhs.uk
crew2000.org.uk admin@crew2000.org.uk 0131 220 3404
SEXUAL HEALTH SCOTLAND sexualhealthscotland.co.uk
DRINK SMARTER drinksmarter.org 0800 731 4314
KNOW THE SCORE knowthescore.info
RELEASE
release.org.uk 0800 587 5879
TALK TO FRANK
DIRECTORY
0800 587 5879
talktofrank.com 0300 123 6600
59
SPORT
FINANCE
SPORT AND EXERCISE
STUDENT AWARDS AGENCY FOR SCOTLAND (SAAS)
sport.ed.ac.uk
sportscentre@ed.ac.uk Pleasance Sports Complex and Gym
saas.gov.uk
0300 555 0505
46 Pleasance Edinburgh EH8 9TJ 0131 650 2585 @UoE_Sport_Exer /CSEPleasanceSportsComples
THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH SPORTS UNION (EUSU) ed.ac.uk/sports-union
sports.union@ed.ac.uk 48 Pleasance Edinburgh EH8 9TJ 0131 650 2346 @UoESportsUnion /UniversityofEdinburghSportsUnion
KB FITNESS
eusa.ed.ac.uk/kbfitness King’s Buildings House
DIRECTORY
0131 650 5772
60
STUDENT FINANCE ENGLAND gov.uk/student-finance 0300 100 0607
STUDENT FINANCE NORTHERN IRELAND studentfinanceni.co.uk 0300 100 0077
STUDENT FINANCE WALES studentfinancewales.co.uk 0300 200 4050
STUDENT LOANS COMPANY slc.co.uk
0141 306 2000
MONEY ADVICE SERVICE moneyadviceservice.org.uk 0800 138 7777
Potterrow Reception: 5/2 Bristo Square | Edinburgh | EH8 9AL eusa.ed.ac.uk/welcome2016
Edinburgh University Students’ Association is a charity (SC015800) and a company limited by guarantee (SC429897) registered in Scotland. All information correct at time of print. Please visit eusa.ed.ac.uk/welcome2016 and ed.ac.uk/students/new-students for the most up to date information.