The Advice Place is owned and run by EUSA and is independent from the University. Our professional staff constantly improve this service by taking on board your feedback. If your problem is shared by others we work closely with student representatives and the University to solve any common issues. We aim to support our members in gaining a world leading student experience.
Edinburgh University Students’ Association Potterrow 5/2 Bristo Sqaure Edinburgh, EH8 9AL Tel: 0131650 2656 Fax: 0131 668 4177 E-mail: eusa.enquiry@ed.ac.uk web: www.eusa.ed.ac.uk EUSA is a Registered Scottish Charity (No.SCO15800)
Foreword
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Contents
Contents M o n e y J o b s D e g r e e Pu b s C l u b s S o c i e t i e s F l a t s Mu s ic C o m p u t e rs B o o k s Lec t u re s S a fet y T h e a t r e S p o r t D o c t o r s F r e s h e r s We e k C i n e m a s C a r e e r s U n io n s C o ffe e S h o p s A d v ic e C o n t a c t s C o m m u n ic a t io n M a p s R e l ig io n F u n
1 Freshers’ Week & Beyond
4 Resources
Freshers Week .........................................10 Beginning You Degree ..............................11 Your Degree .............................................13 Money .......................................................13
Library Resources ....................................44 Computing at the University .....................46 Acquiring Skills .........................................48
2 Health & Lifestyle
Accommodation ........................................52 Finances ...................................................56
Health .......................................................22 Sexual health ............................................24 Self Examination.......................................25 Diet & Exercise .........................................26 Alcohol ......................................................28 Drugs ........................................................29 Personal Safety ........................................30 Religion & Health ......................................32 Sexuality ...................................................32 Disability ...................................................33
5 Second year & Beyond
6 Directory EUSA ........................................................62 University Services ...................................63 Money .......................................................65 Welfare Services ......................................65
3 Your Degree In-Course Assessment .............................36 Exams.......................................................37 Studying & Revision .................................39
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Foreword
WELCOME TO THE SURVIVAL GUIDE
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Contents
FOREword from the EUSA President
Welcome to your Advice Place Survival Guide. This guide has been put together by your Advice Place, which is run by your Students’ Association. This guide is here to help make sure you have an amazing experience at university and, along with the Advice Place itself, it should be your first port of call when you need to find out how to do something or if you have a problem.
Whether you want to know how your degree is going to work, how to stay safe at university, how to look after your finances, or how to find a flat, it’s all in here (and much, much more).
This guide gives you loads of pointers about life as a student. If I can give you one piece of advices it’s this: get involved. Join a society or a sports club and bury yourself University can be tough at times – there’s in the student community. Never again always more work that can be done, financial will you have such easy access to such a pressures, the stress of essays or exams, and range of experiences and activities. Take a million and one different things you’ll want to advantage of them. spend your time doing. We are here to help you through your time here with professional If we can ever be of any help, don’t hesitate support and advice. We’re also here to make to get in touch. Stop by the advice place, sure you have a fantastic time! come and see me in the office, send me an email – president@eusa.ed.ac.uk, or grab If at any time you need some quick tips or me if you see me around campus. advice, check this guide out to help you on I look forward to meeting you, your way. Thomas
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Chapter 1
just arrived
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Freshers Week & Beyond
1. Surviving Freshers’ Week and Beyond Contents 10 - Freshers Week 11 - Beginning You Degree 13 - Your Degree 13 - Money
The transition from school to University is a difficult one for many people. With the sudden independence comes more than a few responsibilities as you settle into University life. You’ll need to juggle your finances, organise your studying, fit in a lecture here and a tutorial there as well as experiencing the social side of life away from home. This chapter will guide you through the various areas which will require your attention over the first few weeks. From moving in to meeting your director of studies to opening a student bank account, you won’t be short of things to do. Just make sure you leave time for some fun!
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Chapter 1
Freshers’ Week Freshers’ Week can be very daunting but just remember that everyone else is in the same boat and the sooner you get to know people, the sooner you start having a good time. Below are some tips on how to make the most of your first week. • Make sure you have a copy of the Freshers’ Week schedule. Finding out what’s happening might give you a head start on what fancy dress outfits you need! • Get there early otherwise it will take you days to unpack because you will be so busy! • Make sure your door is open while unpacking so people can see you exist – a guaranteed way to meet people. • As soon as you know one person, go round knocking on everyone’s door in your flat/block. You will be less nervous in a pair and then you can meet quite a few people. Get them to join you on your rampage as soon as you meet a new person. • When you first arrive, make your bed. Then when you get tired of packing/ meeting people and don’t want to unpack anymore you have a refuge for the night.
• Try to meet as many people as possible. i.e. make good friends with those on your floor, but be on first name terms with everyone. • Go to as many events and social gatherings as possible. It may be exhausting, and you’re unlikely to remember everyone later, but the more people you meet now, the more you can say “Hey I remember you!” to later.
What to take • Other than clothes and personal belongings, it is important that you bring along the following to ensure that everything goes smoothly: • Passport and at least a couple of extra passport sized photos. You can get passport photos done at the Potterrow Student Shop • Driving Licence (if you have one) • National Insurance Number • Insurance Documents • Any information from your funding body • Your Unconditional Offer from the University • Any Documents regarding your accommodation
• Make sure you have some cash on your first night for drinks in the bar, there may not be a cash point close at hand.
• Cheque Book
• Don’t be afraid to start up random conversations with people you just happen to be standing next to while waiting for something – that is how you make new friends. Chances are, they’re just as nervous as you and will welcome the chance to have a conversation without having to start it themselves!
Amongst the late nights and social events, there will be some official stuff you need to attend to. You need to matriculate (or register), you need to see your Director of Studies and you are likely to have introductory lectures to attend, which will give you an outline of the courses you will be studying.
• Bank or Building Society Details
• Put things on the wall of your room straight away, as it helps you feel at home.
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Freshers Week & Beyond
Matriculation Many of you will have registered with the University by post over the summer. However you will need to register in person when you arrive if: you are a new postgraduate; if you are liable to pay all or part of your tuition fees; if you have a sponsor paying all or part of your fees; or if you have not yet received confirmation of an award from SAAS or confirmation from your LEA that your application for a tuition fee loan has been successful. New students who are resident at Pollock Halls can register on Saturday 12 September 2009 from 10.00am–5.30pm in South Hall, Pollock Halls. Students who are not resident at Pollock Halls should register at Adam House, Chambers Street between Monday 14th September and Friday 18th September. To get details of when to attend registration see the registry website - www. registry.ed.ac.uk. Once you have registered you need to visit your Director of Studies who will complete the matriculation process and register your course choices (see next section). You can check whether you are
fully matriculated on your MyEd Student Portal. Full details of how to matriculate are on Registry’s website: www.registry.ed.ac. uk.
Choosing courses Although you will have been accepted to study one particular degree, most students will be given the opportunity to select one or two ‘outside courses’. These can be from within your own school or can be completely different as long as they do not clash with the compulsory classes on your timetable. This gives you the opportunity to study something completely new or to expand your knowledge on something you know a little about. The Academic Fair and Alternative Academic Fair which run during Freshers’ Week will provide stands with details on each course. The Course Reviewer is available online at www.eusa. ed.ac.uk/reviewer, featuring reviews of courses from students who have taken them recently. Once you are happy with your selections, you will be required to meet with your Director of Studies (DOS) who will discuss them with you and help register your choices online. Education, medicine, veterinary medicine, architecture and law students are likely to have a more restricted timetable and should check with their relevant schools for more information.
Beginning Your Degree Lectures Lectures are often a key component of a course and each lasts for fifty minutes. Lectures are given as presentations and there is little interaction or time for questions. It is a good idea to take notes during lectures and to note any questions you might have which can be asked at the end or in person at another time. Some lecturers will allow you to use dictaphones
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Chapter 1 but permission must normally be obtained from each individual. Some lecturers will provide handouts while others will post them online on the WebCT system, available through your MyEd login you will receive once you are matriculated.
Tutorials The most interactive part of your learning programme, tutorials are held either once a week or fortnightly in groups of around 8-15 students. Led by either a lecturer or a PhD student, they also last for fifty minutes but unlike lectures, the onus is very much on the student. You will be expected to have read the reading material each week and contribute to the class discussion. This is the best opportunity to raise any queries you may have with the course or the topics you are studying. Attendance is sometimes recorded in tutorials and you are expected to attend each class.
Practicals Science students will be required to attend practicals which will put into action the material learnt in lectures. These often last for three hours and are compulsory and may require a lab report to be written and submitted, perhaps as assessed coursework There are also a number of other forms of learning and teaching used depending on what course you study – group work, placements, presentations etc as well as the traditional lecture, tutorial and practical.
People Director of Studies (DoS) Every new student is allocated to a Director of Studies (DoS), a member of the teaching staff who provides you with academic guidance. Your DoS will typically be from the main subject area in which you will be studying. Your DoS is available as your first point of contact if you have any concerns or problems that might be affecting your
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studies. He or she can also advise on what subject choices to make throughout your degree. Your DoS can normally be contacted via email or by phone and most will have an office on campus with set office hours when you can drop in. Appointments may also be able to be made via email. In the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Student Support Officers will also be available to discuss issues regarding course choices and any problems you may be having. Their contact details will be made clear to you in your Course Handbook and at your introductory talk.
Tutors Tutors are your main port of call if you have queries about your course or any assessments. They are also responsible for setting your tutorial programme and marking essays. Other than seeing them in class, some will have an office on campus but if not can be contacted via email if you need any advice.
Course Organisers The 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. You may however be referred to them should you have any issues that cannot be dealt with by the staff detailed above.
Class Representatives Class reps help develop links between the staff and the students and this is a two way process. In practical terms class reps liaise between students and staff on a course, bringing up any issues of concerns or suggestions for improvement. You will be given the opportunity to volunteer as a class rep at the beginning of the year, and many students find it a very rewarding role. More information can be found: http://www.eusa. ed.ac.uk/voice/representation/classreps
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Freshers Week & Beyond
Honours Degree Having progressed to honours, students will study for a further two or three years and the programme will normally be more specialised, focusing on your main degree subject. Successful completion of these years will lead to graduation with honours. Medicine and Veterinary Medicine students have different degree structures and will study for five years. More information on the structure can be found at http://www.mvm.ed.ac.uk/index.htm. The classification of honours degree you receive depends on your performance during the final two years and information on this can be found in your course handbook.
Money Being in control of your finances can seem like a daunting challenge especially with Freshers’ Week acting like a magnet deliberately set up to attract your wallet!
Your Degree The two main types of degrees are ordinary and honours and the one you will take depends on your performance in your first two years. A percentage threshold will normally be the decisive factor and if you fail to meet it, you may not be able to continue to honours, but may be given the opportunity to work towards an ‘ordinary’ degree. Your DoS will be able to advise and help you throughout the course of your degree.
Ordinary Degree
With an estimated cost of £6,623 to live in Edinburgh each year, learning to budget effectively is crucial, especially with so many things to pay for including rent, food, bills, study materials and, of course, socialising! This chapter will give you a rough guide to what you’ll need to pay for, and the various options available to help pay for them. The funding you receive and the level of fees that you pay very much depend on which part of the world you are from.
Normally lasting three years, an ordinary degree is either taken by choice or due to a student not having met the requirements to continue on to an honours degree. This will mean the main subject is covered in less depth and students will graduate a year earlier than they would do with honours.
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Chapter 1 Student Loans Student Loans are the main source of support towards living costs for UK undergraduate students. You will have been notified by SAAS as to level of support you will receive. The loan will be paid monthly directly into your bank account.
Bursaries The Young Students’ Bursary, which is not repayable, is available for some students under the age of 25 to help with living cost support. The amount available is dependent on the income received by your family. To qualify you must meet certain criteria. Check the SAAS website for more detailed information at www. saas.gov.uk.
Travel Expenses
Students from Scotland Tuition Fees If you are a Scottish student studying for a first degree, and you meet the required residence conditions, you can apply for your tuition fees to be paid for by the Scottish Government. You should have already applied for your fees and loan to be assessed by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) before starting university. SAAS online applications must be completed and submitted every year to ensure your funding remains in place throughout your course. You can apply online at www.saas.gov.uk from late March onwards and continuing students’ applications should ideally be submitted in May, in order to have their funds in place for the start of the next academic year.
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If you are funded by SAAS and you pay more than £155 in travel costs over the whole academic year, or £80 if you are studying one of the Allied Health Profession courses, then you can apply for assistance with the cost of daily travel to your college or university. If you live away from home they may also pay towards the cost of travel between your home and term-time address at the start and end of each semester within the UK. Application forms are available on the SAAS website from mid-December each year. Travel expenses are income-assessed. The amount paid depends on your income and either your parents’ income or the income of your husband, wife or civil partner. For more information on the financial support available to Scottish students visit www.saas.gov.uk
NHS Bursaries SAAS offers bursaries for students of health related courses, and should be contacted for further details. Students taking a course leading to
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Freshers Week & Beyond professional registration in one of the Allied Health Professions are eligible for the Scottish Government Health Department Bursary. The amount of bursary you can get will depend on the level of your income and, if this applies, your parents’ income or the income of your husband, wife or civil partner. Medicine students are entitled to the same support package as other undergraduate students for their first four years. However, in the final year they can receive the same support as those doing an Allied Health Profession degree Nursing and midwifery students are eligible for a separate bursary. They will get the full bursary rate in years 1 to 3 and a 75% bursary for year 4.
Students with Children Full-time students with children may qualify for extra financial help on top of the standard student finance package. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to get: • Child Tax Credits • Lone Parents Grant from SAAS • Loan Parents Childcare Grant from SAAS • Childcare funds (awarded at the discretion of the University), ask in the Advice Place for application details. • There is also a Dependents Grant for students with spouses on a low income, whether or not they have children.
year of their programme. Although these fees are payable up front, students can apply for a fee loan to cover this cost. Fee loans are repayable in the same way as a traditional student loan.
Maintenance Grant If you’re from England and doing a full-time higher education course in the UK, you may be able to get help with accommodation and other living costs through the Maintenance Grant or Special Support Grant. Whether you qualify - and the level of grant you’ll get - depends on your household income. You don’t have to pay these back, and you can apply for them at the same time as you apply for Student Loans - through the main student finance application. There may be an additional grant of up to £250 available for help with course costs including books, travel and course related expenditure.
Maintenance Loan The Student Loan for Maintenance is intended to help towards your accommodation and other living costs while you’re studying. The Student Loans Company will usually pay the money into your bank account in three installments one at the start of each semester. All eligible full-time students will receive a Student Loan for Maintenance, but the exact amount that you can borrow will depend on several factors - including your household income, where you live while you study and whether you are in the final year of your course.
Special Support Grant
Tuition Fees
The Special Support Grant provides a nonrepayable sum depending on your income and the income of your household. If you get the Special Support Grant you will not receive the Maintenance Grant but the Special Support Grant has no effect on the Maintenance Loan.
Students from England, Northern Ireland and Wales pay a flat-rate tuition fee for each
The Special Support Grant is not available
Students from England, Northern Ireland and Wales
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Chapter 1 to all students. Students who are likely to qualify for Special Support Grant include single parents, other student parents if they have a partner who is also a student, and students with qualifying disabilities. But there are others who are eligible - ask your LEA or the SLC for advice. Unlike the Maintenance Grant, the Special Support Grant will have no effect on the amount of means tested benefits received due to special circumstances.
For details of scholarships and bursaries you may be eligible for visit the University’s Scholarships and Student Finance webpage: www.scholarships.ed.ac.uk
All Students
Students with Children Full-time students with children may qualify for extra financial help on top of the standard student finance package. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to get: • the Childcare Grant (to help with childcare costs) • the Parents’ Learning Allowance (to help towards the cost of registered or approved childcare) • help through the Higher Education Childcare fund or application to the University Discretionary funds (details can be found below) • Child Tax Credits
EU Students Tuition Fees First degree students from the rest of the EU studying in Scotland will continue to be entitled to have their tuition fees paid by SAAS.
Student Loans Certain EU nationals, for example those who have been ordinarily resident in the UK for three years prior to the commencement of their programme of study, and resident in Scotland by the first day of the first academic year of their programme, may be entitled to apply for student support from SAAS in the form of a Young Students Bursary and Student Loan. International Students
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If you are from outside the EU then you will be charged for the full cost of your degree programme. For full details of tuition fees, visit www.registry.ed.ac.uk/fees
Disabled Students Allowance The Disabled Students’ Allowance is a grant to help meet the extra course costs students can face as a direct result of a disability, mental health condition or specific learning difficulty. They are aimed at helping disabled students to study on an equal basis with other students. Full-time, part-time and postgraduate students can apply for Disabled Students’ Allowances. The amount you get doesn’t depend on your household income. Disabled Students’ Allowances are paid on top of the standard student finance package, and don’t have to be paid back. Disabled Students’ Allowances can help with: • specialist equipment you need for studying - for example, computer software • a non-medical helper, such as a notetaker or reader • extra travel costs you have to pay because of your disability • other costs - for example, tapes or Braille paper Students who think they may be eligible should contact the Disability Office to apply,
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Freshers Week & Beyond Bursaries The University of Edinburgh offers bursaries for students who, perhaps due to their financial circumstances, may not otherwise be able to take up their place at University. 730 Access Bursaries are available, with successful applicants receiving £1000 per year of study. The University of Edinburgh also offers up to 90 bursaries to first year undergraduate UK students who will be living in University accommodation during the 2009-2010 academic session. Each bursary will have a value of £1,000 which will be paid directly to Accommodation Services towards the costs of your accommodation and will be tenable for one academic session. For application details see: www. scholarships.ed.ac.uk/bursaries/ Be aware that the student funding system is subject to change. For up to date information, or if you have any questions, contact the Advice Place.
cost of formal registered childcare. They are expected to have taken out their full entitlement to loans and grants available from their funding body. The Discretionary, Common Bursaries and Childcare funds application forms can be collected from The Advice Place.
EUSA Emergency Small Loan Scheme A small loan fund is provided by the University and administered by the Students’ Association. Immediate short-term interest free loans may be available to students in acute financial need. Both home, EU and International students are entitled to apply. The fund is limited and, before applying, students are expected to have approached their bank for assistance. Students should contact the Advice Place for full details.
EUSA Late Award Loan Scheme If your student loan, scholarship or bursary is delayed for some reason but you have
Discretionary and Childcare Funds Once matriculated, students may be eligible for assistance from the Discretionary Funds. These are provided by the government and the University to help students with unforeseen financial difficulties. Students are expected to have exhausted other means of support before applying for assistance. In particular, students are expected to have taken out their full student loan entitlement and any other available support from their funding body and also have an overdraft with their bank, if eligible. EU and international students are not eligible for the Discretionary Fund but may apply to the Common Bursaries Fund, which is capped at a maximum of £800. UK students with children can apply to the Childcare fund for assistance with the
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Chapter 1 the proof that it has been awarded, pop into the Advice Place to make an appointment to see an adviser about a Late Award. This is a loan to cover your rent, bills and other immediate costs until your money arrives.
Overdrafts Most high street banks offer interest free overdrafts for students from the UK. The amounts offered vary from bank to bank, so shop around for the best deal. Many also have related offers to entice you in, for example, a free Young Persons Rail Pass.
Budgeting
• Make use of online banking- you can easily see your balance and any ingoing/ outgoings at a glance. You can also arrange your direct debits/standing orders and cancel cheques. • Know how much money you have coming in each month from your loan and other sources such as a job, parental assistance, bursaries and grants. • Subtract from your income any fixed regular outgoings to obtain the amount you have left: things like accommodation, TV licence and phone contract.
• It is important to remember that there are occasions where you may unexpectedly have to spend a large amount of money. Textbooks are expensive and if you aren’t careful nights out can cost large amounts too, as can any unplanned events. Therefore it is always good to save some money as a contingency.
Other hints and tips • Take advantage of any student discounts and offers you may see e.g. open a bank account and receive a railcard • Make sure you have insurance for your possessions (either as a separate policy or included on your parents home insurance) • Always use a Young Persons Railcard and book tickets well in advance. This means that even long distance fares work out cheaper. • When you get your TV licence it automatically backdates it to the beginning of the month - so if you buy it on the 30th September it starts from the 1st September.
• Divide this by the number of weeks per term/year to obtain the figure for the maximum you have left to spend each week.
• Supermarkets normally have basic ranges which can be very cheap for baked beans etc and a lot of the time it can be difficult to tell the difference. Shop around for the cheapest deals.
• From this figure, subtract an amount for essential food items and a book/ stationery allowance.
• Learn to cook if you are in a self catered residence - it works out much cheaper than buying ready meals
• Work out what you have left over and you now have the maximum amount you have to spend each week on non-essential items. Alternatively, go to www.studentcalculator.org.uk and it will calculate all this for you!
• Think about buying textbooks second hand, either online or from previous students. You might only need some books for one year and so spending a fortune on them might not be a good idea.
• If you spend too much on any one item (drink, coffees, magazines, sandwiches, etc.) try and cut back on others.
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Freshers Week & Beyond
Opening a student bank account It is essential to open a student bank account for your time at University. It is 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. Most banks offer some sort of cash incentive or vouchers to entice you to open an account with them. Make sure you know what overdraft limit there is available and read the small print so you know about fines and how to avoid them! To open a student account you may need to produce: • a copy of your student letter • proof of your student status e.g. your UCAS letter • identification, e.g. passport, national insurance card or full driving license
• proof of term-time or home address. If you are an international student and you are staying in university accommodation then you should be given a letter at the time you collect your keys which you can give to the bank for proof of address. If you are not staying in University accommodation, then the International Office at 57 George Square can give you a letter to use as proof of address. These can be used at particular banks who have agreed with the International Office that they will accept these letters. For more information on international student banking look at the International Office website: http://www. international.ed.ac.uk/finances/bank_ account.php
Bills If you are staying in University self-catered residences or flats your rent will include all bills, regular cleaning, personal contents insurance, telephone/internet facilities and data service. Pollock halls of residence also include two meals a day in the monthly rent.
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Chapter 2
Keeping Fit !
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2. HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
Contents
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29 30 32 32 33
Health Sexual health Self Examination Diet & Exercise Alcohol
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Health & Lifestyle
Drugs Personal Saety Religion & Health Sexuality Disabuility
It is important to take care of yourself at University. Neglecting your health can impact the rest of your life, including your studies. It may be the first time you have no-one to check up on you so of course you should have fun, but you also need to make sure you keep yourself safe and well. For example, you will need to register with a doctor and a dentist in Edinburgh. Furthermore, your lifestyle can change considerably when you come to University and there can be important choices to be made. Alcohol, drugs, sex, personal safety, and mental health are all examples of issues that may affect students and it is important to know where to seek information and advice. This chapter will help you make informed decisions, offer sources of support if you need them and give you some tips on keeping happy and healthy in Edinburgh.
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Chapter 2
Health Doctors Having arrived in Edinburgh, it is advisable to make registering with a doctor one of the first things you do. The most convenient way to do this can be to register with the University Health Centre, located on Bristo Square, which is close to the central George Square area. In order to register, phone to make an appointment or turn up at one of the registration sessions during Freshers’ Week. You will be asked to fill in two forms and have a short medical assessment. In order to a see a doctor, the Health Centre operates mainly on an appointment system but does have an Open Access hour each morning from 9-10am where no appointment is necessary. In an emergency, and when the Health Centre is closed, NHS24 can be contacted on 08454 242424. Should you wish to register with another doctor’s surgery, rather than the university practice, visit http://www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk to find the one closest to you. You will again be required to fill in some paperwork, and knowing the details of your previous doctor is handy. A short medical assessment will again be the order of the day in order to complete your registration. If you are still 18 or under then prescriptions will be free. You may need to produce some form of ID to confirm your age. For those over the age of 18, charges of £4.00 per prescription will apply. Prepayment cards are also available from pharmacies and may save you money if you have to buy more than 3 prescriptions in 4 months. Help with the costs of prescriptions and other health-related costs, such as dental treatment and glasses or contact lenses, may be available if you are on a low income. Apply using a HC1 form. You can pick one up from The Advice Place or most pharmacies.
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Dentists and Opticians There is no dental service at the University Health Centre but your nearest dentist can be located by phoning 0131-537-8424 or by consulting www.nhs24.com. Be aware that the number of dentists still operating within the NHS is decreasing but some still do and you should ask to be registered as an NHS patient if possible. There may however be a waiting list for this. If your optician at home was part of a chain, there is most likely a branch in Edinburgh otherwise ask around for a recommendation. Eye tests are free in Scotland and so there is no excuse for not having your eyes checked on a regular basis.
Hospitals Should you require hospital treatment, the following services are available: Accident and Emergency- The Royal Infirmary operates a 24-hour A&E department and is located in Little France. The Western General hospital has a nurseled Minor Injuries Clinic, open from 8am to 9pm every day of the year. Clinic staff treat adults and children over one-year-old for a wide range of injuries, including minor cuts and burns, infections and stings, suspected sprains and small bone breaks (from shoulder to fingers and knee to toes). GUM clinic- The Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) clinic can be found in Lauriston Building, on Lauriston Place should you need testing, treatment or advice on sexually transmitted diseases. To make an appointment, phone: Men- 0131 5362103 Women- 0131 5362104
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Health & Lifestyle
Health Problems in Students Freshers Flu With hundreds of students coming to Edinburgh from all over the country and the world, it is no surprise that outbreaks of flu are common towards the end of your first week. Symptoms include a fever, shivering, headache, sneezing and a dry cough. If you do get struck down, get as much rest as possible and drink plenty of liquids.
Meningitis
Giving blood With 1000 donations needed every day to meet the needs of Scotland’s patients, giving blood is extremely worthwhile. The Majority of people from the age of 17 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. If it is your first time you will be required to fill in a form and have a short discussion with a nurse regarding your medical history. Once the donation is given, you are specifically requested to eat biscuits and chocolate! You will then be a sent a donor card to make the process even easier in future. You must wait twelve weeks before donating blood again, which means you can donate three times a year; a small undertaking, which could potentially save lives.
Students are in the second highest group at risk for meningitis with up to one quarter carrying the bacteria which causes the disease, compared to one in ten of the general population. Symptoms include fever, headache, stiff neck, and a dislike of bright lights, drowsiness and a rash that does not fade when pressure is applied. You should seek help as soon as you become concerned. Do not wait for a rash to develop, as this is a sign of septicaemia and may not appear with meningitis. For more information see www.meningitis-trust. org or call their helpline on 0800 028 18 28. You should ensure that you are vaccinated against meningitis C but there is no way of preventing meningitis B, the most common form of bacterial meningitis in the UK.
Mumps Another common illness among students is mumps, which is highly contagious. There have been several outbreaks in universities across the country in recent years. Symptoms begin with a headache and fever for a day or two, followed by swelling of the glands in front of the ears on one or both sides. In severe cases, mumps can lead to infertility in men. There is no specific treatment for mumps but your doctor will advise on the best way to help you recover. Prevention comes in the form of the MMR vaccine and if you have not yet received it, it is advisable to speak to your doctor.
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Chapter 2 Glandular Fever Glandular fever is passed on in saliva, and from coughs and sneezes, which makes it tailor-made for student life. If you’ve already suffered from it, you’re immune from future infection. Flu-like symptoms such as fever and headaches are accompanied by sore throat and swollen tonsils, as well as swollen glands in the armpit and groin. There is no treatment for the disease, just ways to help with the symptoms. The first step is to see your doctor for a check up, blood test, and throat swab. Be sure to take lots of rest. Recovery tends to kick in after a week or so.
Mental Health One in four people will experience a mental health problem at some time in their life and it is nothing to be ashamed of. Warning signs can include: feeling depressed or worthless, feeling isolated, lacking motivation or energy, finding it hard to concentrate, problems sleeping, eating too much or too little, having panic or anxiety attacks, depending on alcohol, drug use, hearing voices and self-harm. If you are experiencing any of these then it is important to seek help and support. Many people find it can be really helpful to talk to a professional counsellor who is otherwise uninvolved in their lives. The Student Counselling Service (www. student-counselling.ed.ac.uk) is free for all University of Edinburgh students. The Chaplaincy offers support and pastoral care for all students regardless of faith and the student-run Nightline service offers anonymous and confidential support & information between 8pm and 8am. Call 0131 557 4444 to speak to a trained student volunteer. It is also a good idea to discuss things with your doctor and, if your studies are being affected, your DoS.
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For more information and other sources of support, whether for yourself or someone you know, contact The Advice Place.
Sexual Health Practising safe sex Practising safe sex is essential to keep you and your partner safe. Not using a condom puts you both at risk of sexually transmitted infections and women at risk of unwanted pregnancy. Even if you are in a long-term relationship and no longer want to use contraception, make sure you have both been tested for sexually transmitted infections before you do so. To make it easier to obtain contraception, Edinburgh operates the c:card scheme, which is a free contraception service. You need only give your date of birth and first part of your postcode in order to sign up. All three Advice Place offices offer the c:card scheme, so just pop in within opening hours to sign up.
Sexually transmitted infections STI’s can be caught when having unprotected sex. Making the effort to have regular check ups is advisable. Common symptoms include itching, swelling or redness around the vagina or penis, unusual discharge from the vagina or penis, or pains in the lower abdomen. If you think you may have an STI you should see a doctor or phone for an appointment at your nearest GUM (Genito-Urinary Medicine) Clinic. The nearest GUM clinic to the University is located at Lauriston Building, Lauriston Place. Staff are well trained and discreet while the service is confidential and nothing will go on your GP medical records. Bring your partner with you, or at least tell them that you think you have an STI.
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Health & Lifestyle
Self Examination Breast Cancer Examining your breasts is an important way to identify breast cancer early, when it’s easier to be cured. This is an easy and effective step you can and should take for yourself. No woman wants to do a breast self-exam (or “BSE”), and for many the experience is frustrating—you may feel things but not know what they mean. However, the more you examine your breasts, the more you will learn about them and the easier it will become for you to tell if something unusual has occurred. BSE is an essential part of taking care of yourself and reducing your risk of breast cancer.
Pregnancy Should you become pregnant during your studies you will likely need detailed information, guidance and support on a range of issues. You should seek advice as soon as you know you are pregnant to ensure you make the best possible decisions. If you think you may be pregnant you can pick up an over the counter testing kit from a pharmacy or from the Potterrow Advice Place office. You are advised to have the results of such tests confirmed by a doctor.If you find that you are pregnant, it is important to take the time to really think through your options. Talking to a professional counsellor can help. There could obviously be an impact on your course of study, and you should ensure that you are aware of any help, benefits and services available to you. Staff in the Advice Place can provide confidential and impartial advice and assistance on the financial implications of pregnancy. They can also advise you of places where you can seek counselling and support.
Try to get in the habit of doing a breast self-examination once a month to familiarize yourself with how your breasts normally look and feel. Examine yourself several days after your period ends, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen and tender. If you are no longer having periods, choose a day that’s easy to remember, such as the first or last day of the month. Don’t panic if you think you feel a lump. Most women have some lumps or lumpy areas in their breasts all the time. Eight out of ten breast lumps that are removed are benign, non-cancerous. Breasts tend to have different “neighborhoods.” The upper, outer area— near your armpit—tends to have the most prominent lumps and bumps. The lower half of your breast can feel like a sandy or pebbly beach. The area under the nipple can feel like a collection of large grains. Another part might feel like a lumpy bowl of oatmeal. What’s important is that you get to know the look and feel of your breasts’ various neighborhoods. Does something stand out
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Chapter 2 as different from the rest (like a rock on a sandy beach)? Has anything changed? Bring to the attention of your doctor any changes in your breasts that last over a full month’s cycle or seem to get worse or more obvious over time.
Testicular cancer The best way to check for testicular cancer is to examine yourself once a month. A good time to do this is after a warm bath or shower, when the scrotal skin is relaxed. Hold your scrotum in the palms of your hands, so that you can use the fingers and thumb on both hands to examine your testicles. Note the size and weight of the testicles. It is common to have one testicle slightly larger, or which hangs lower than the other, but any noticeable increase in size or weight may mean something is wrong. Gently feel each testicle individually. You should feel a soft tube at the top and back of the testicle. This is the epididymis which carries and stores sperm. It may feel slightly tender. Don’t confuse it with an abnormal lump. You should be able to feel the firm, smooth tube of the spermatic cord which runs up from the epididymis. Feel the testicle itself. It should be smooth with no lumps or swellings. It is unusual to develop cancer in both testicles at the same time, so if you are wondering whether a testicle is feeling normal or not you can compare it with the other. Remember - if you do find a swelling in your testicle, make an appointment and have it checked by your doctor as soon as possible.
Diet and Exercise University life can have its pitfalls as far as staying healthy is concerned. Whether it is the copious amounts of alcohol or the attraction of microwavable ready meals, there are several distractions which, if allowed to get out of hand, can have an impact on your health. However, with the excellent sports facilities at Edinburgh, there really is no excuse! Accompanying this with a healthy diet should keep you on the straight and narrow. 30 minutes of exercise each day is generally regarded to be adequate while a balanced diet with five pieces of fruit and veg a day and plenty of water will help you stay in good health. Minimising your salt and sugar intake is also advisable as is eating enough fibre.Failing to exercise well and maintain a healthy balance can have an impact on your studies as well as your health. Your concentration can be affected and you can become tired and irritable. Should you need any help with your diet, drop into one of the Advice Places and pick up a copy of the health eating booklet.
Edinburgh University Sports Union As the best sporting University in Scotland and one of the highest ranked in Britain, Edinburgh has a wealth of opportunities for those wishing to enhance their sporting abilities. The Sports Union administer a number of sports clubs. The Sports Union handbook provides details of the many different clubs which you can join. One way of finding out what is available is through the sports fair which is held in Freshers’ week This gives students the opportunity to ask questions of the various clubs, as well as seeing demonstrations
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Health & Lifestyle of the less well known sports. These include Korfball and Ultimate Frisbee. The University is also strong in the more traditional sports, particularly football and lacrosse and these clubs offer an opportunity to get involved in the competitive side of university sport. The British University Sports Association (BUSA) runs competitions throughout the year. As the name suggests, the BUSA involves clubs from south of the border as well as those from Scotland and allows teams to compete against the very best British Universities have to offer. For more information on the Union and the clubs visit www.eusu.ed.ac.uk.
Intramural programme One of the best and easiest ways to get involved in university sport is through the extensive Intra-Mural programme. Providing a more relaxed and sociable opportunity to take part in a range of different sports, the Intra-Mural programme gives you the chance to enter your own teams into various competitions. Registration normally takes place in the first week of the first semester and competition for places is fierce. The sports on offer include Basketball, Cricket, Football (Men and Women), Hockey, Netball, Rugby and Squash. For more information on the IntraMural Programme, email Intra.Mural@ ed.ac.uk.
available to hire and there are several squash courts available. There are also over 60 classes to choose from each week, from Boxing Circuits to Yoga. A 25 metre, six lane swimming pool is also available just 250 metres from the Pleasance on Holyrood Road. The use of the pool is included in the CSE membership. Aside from the Pleasance, Peffermill offers two internationally accredited water based artificial pitches, with floodlighting and a synthetic training track. There are also facilities for football, rugby and lacrosse as well as cricket, tennis and golf. Membership for the CSE offers value for money and can work out at less than ÂŁ1 per week. There are several membership options available from membership for the Full Academic Year to an Off Peak option. Further information can be found at www. sport.ed.ac.uk.
Centre for Sport and Exercise Edinburgh’s five star sports facility caters to every sports need with its wide variety of equipment and sporting arenas. The Pleasance offers a 100 station state of the art CV gym as well as four free weight gyms, a body circuit gym and a 35 station nautilus gym, and so there is no excuse for not visiting the gym! Sports halls are
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Chapter 2 and 20 units for men. The number of units in a drink depends on what you’re drinking - how strong it is and how much there is but one unit roughly equates to the following: • Half a pint of 3.5% beer/lager/cider • One small (125 ml) glass of wine at 9% • A 25ml pub measure of spirit at 40% • Know your drink tolerance level and that of your friends. Don’t leave your friends when they need you or you need them the most. • Avoid confrontation. Its better - and safer - to walk away if you’re being hassled or provoked. • The drunker you are the more vulnerable you are to potential attackers. Get a taxi or walk home in groups • Don’t go out on an empty stomach, you can guarantee having a nasty hangover the next day if you do.
Sports Bursaries The CSE, in conjunction with the Sports Union, offers three discrete sports bursary programmes for students of the University a multi sports bursary, a golf bursary and a team bursary. More information can be obtained from the CSE Sports Bursary Administrator, Mary Schofield. Email mary.schofield@ed.ac.uk or call 0131 650 2579.
Alcohol Alcohol and university tend to go hand in hand for many students and temptation is never far away in a city like Edinburgh. The phrase “everything in moderation” could have been made for alcohol. Below is a guide to safe and sensible drinking.
• Drinking alternating alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages can save on pain the day after. • After an episode of heavy drinking, it’s advisable to refrain from drinking for 48 hours to allow your body to recover.
Drink Spiking An ever-increasing number of young people are having their drinks spiked with drugs in pubs and clubs. The two most commonly used drugs are Rohypnol and GHB, which are both colourless and odourless, and cause dizziness, confusion and memory loss. Below are a few tips to help prevent your drink being spiked. • Spikies (which stop your drink getting spiked) are often available from behind the bar in many pubs & clubs.
Current guidelines state that safe levels of alcohol consumption are 14 units for women
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Health & Lifestyle • Think before you accept a drink from anyone - make sure you see it either poured or opened. • Never leave a drink unattended. If you go to the toilet take your drink with you. • If you return to a drink that has been moved, looks different, appears to have been topped up or tastes strange, abandon it. • Do not share or exchange drinks • Watch for signs that your drink may have been spiked - feeling light headed, excessively drunk or feeling ill after only a few drinks. Let someone know and get to a place of safety. • Be aware that drink spiking can occur for a number of reasons - in order to commit a mugging, a rape or other crime against an individual. • Drinks do not have to be alcoholic to be spiked (tea, coffee, soft drinks can all be spiked.) • Avoid going to a pub or club alone.
Drugs Along with alcohol, drugs can be part of the culture of university but it remains an offence to possess or supply them. The most common drugs and their effects are detailed below and should you decide to take drugs of any kind, ensure you are aware of the likely results. Crew 2000 (www.crew2000.org.uk) are an Edinburgh-based organisation who provide information, advice and, if necessary, support about drugs. For information about other support groups in Edinburgh, contact the Advice Place.
Cannabis The most commonly used drug by students as well as being the most widely used in Britain as a whole. Naturally made resin, which is cut with various things, it is a
mild sedative, often causing a chilled out feeling or actual sleepiness, and it is also a mild hallucinogen. Some people may feel chilled out, relaxed and happy, while others may feel sick. Hunger pangs are common and are known as ‘getting the munchies’. Long-term effects can include paranoia, depression and brain damage.
Cocaine Cocaine use has increased dramatically in recent years, possibly fuelled by the popularity it has gained in the celebrity world. It is a stimulant with powerful, but short-lived, effects that temporarily speed up the processes of your mind and body. This leaves the user feeling extremely confident and wide-awake.‘Freebase’ cocaine and ‘crack’ cocaine, can be smoked, and so can reach the brain very rapidly in high dosage. Snorted powder cocaine is absorbed more slowly but both can be highly addictive. People who use crack or coke regularly often develop serious problems with anxiety and paranoia. It’s a known cause of panic and heart attacks. Cocaine can also bring previous mental health problems to the surface. If a close relative of yours has had serious mental health problems, it’s possible there might be an increased risk for you in taking cocaine.
Ecstasy Synonymous with the rave culture of the 1990s, ecstasy makes the user feel relaxed and their environment feel more vibrant and intense. The effects normally last for between 3 and 6 hours and precede a slow comedown. Possible physical side effects include dilated pupils, raised body temperature and an increased heart beat. Be careful with your water consumption, as while Ecstasy can cause severe dehydration, drinking too much water can be just as dangerous. Using Ecstasy has also been linked to liver, kidney and heart problems. Anyone using too much can become paranoid and depressed.
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Chapter 2
Personal Safety Acclimatising to new surroundings can take time. As you are thrust into the hustle and bustle of the city, it is important to be aware of your personal safety as well as that of anyone who is with you.
Personal belongings One of the easiest ways to protect yourself when out and about is to keep your belongings hidden. Take only what you need with you. Keep them separate if possible; to ensure that not everything is easily accessible should you be the victim of thieves.Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep what you do carry in a wallet which is out of sight. Should your debit or credit card be stolen, phone your bank as soon as you realise to cancel it. Never keep your PIN number with your cards.
Speed Speed is part of the amphetamine group and is a stimulant, which keep people alert and awake. The effects of amphetamines kick in within half an hour of ingesting it by mouth (or quicker if injected) and these effects can last for up to six hours. The high is generally followed by a long slow comedown.Depending on how much has actually been used, it can be difficult to relax or sleep after taking speed. The come down can make you feel irritable and depressed and can last for one or two days. Speed can also lead to anxiety, depression, irritability and aggression as well as mental illness such as psychosis and paranoid feelings.
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Staying safe out and about If you often walk home in the dark, get a personal alarm. These are available from EUSA shops. Carry it in your hand so you can use it immediately to scare off an attacker. If you think someone is following you, check by crossing the street – more than once if necessary – to see if they follow. If you are still worried, go to the nearest place where there are other people – a pub or anywhere with a lot of lights – and call the police. Avoid using an enclosed phone box in the street. Don’t take short cuts through dark alleys, parks or across waste ground. Walk facing traffic so a car cannot pull up behind you unnoticed. If you are threatened in any way, scream and shout, and set off your personal attack alarm if you have one. Get away as quickly as you can. Write down details as soon as possible afterwards, for example, a description of the person involved, the car licence plate
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Health & Lifestyle etc. Self-defence classes may help you feel, and be, more secure. There are several available through the various university societies.
• If you feel uneasy, ask to be let out in a well-lit area where there are plenty of people.
Transport
Staying safe on public transport
If you are going to be out late and don’t want to travel on public transport on your own, you can arrange to come home with some friends before you go out. Alternatively try to arrange a lift home with someone you know or take a taxi. Taxis give you a degree of protection because drivers must meet suitability criteria, including a criminal record and health check. Taxis must be licensed by your local council. • You can hail a taxi on the street or at a rank as well as pre-booking one by phone. You may find it useful to make sure you have the number of a taxi firm so that you can call a taxi if you need one. • You should always ensure that you travel in a licensed taxi by checking the vehicle’s signage or plate and the driver’s badge. You should never agree to travel in an unlicensed vehicle with an unlicensed driver. • Check that the taxi that arrives is the one you ordered. Ask for a description of the car - colour, make, etc - and check this when it arrives. You could also ask for the name of the driver beforehand. • If you pre-book your taxi, make a note of the company you are using, and the telephone number. If possible leave a note of these details with a friend. • When you get to your destination, ask the driver to wait until you are inside. • If you are approached by someone in the street offering (i.e. touting for) a taxi journey, ignore them. • If travelling alone, always sit behind the driver in the back seat.
• If in any doubt don’t get in the vehicle. Try to stay away from isolated bus stops, especially after dark. On an empty bus, sit near the driver or conductor. On a train, sit in a compartment where there are several other people – ideally one which will be near the exit when the train reaches your destination. Check to see where the emergency stop is.
Should the worst happen If someone threatens you, shout and scream for help and set off your personal attack alarm if you have one. This may unnerve the attacker and frighten him off. You have every right to defend yourself, however the law doesn’t allow the carrying of an offensive weapon and you should never prioritise your possessions over your own safety.
If you have been attacked Assaults and rapes are serious crimes. They can be committed by a stranger or by someone you know. If you decide to call the police, you can help them catch your attacker by: • Taking the name or address of any witness • Trying to remember exactly what the attacker looked like • If a car was involved, try to note the colour, model and registration number. • You do not need to go to the police station to report an assault – you can be interviewed in your own home if you wish. These crimes are dealt with sympathetically, regardless of gender or
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Chapter 2 sexuality. Police stations have trained officers who will help and support you. Many areas have comfortable victim suites, separate from the police station, where you can be interviewed privately. • If you have been raped you can also contact the Edinburgh Women’s Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre (www. rapecrisisscotland.org.uk) on 0131 558 1612. They can offer free and confidential support, including accompanying you to the police station if you wish. Although your immediate reaction will be to wash, try not to if you can possibly help it. It will destroy vital medical evidence that will help prove the case against the person who raped or assaulted you.
‘Take Control’ Remote Reporting Scheme Remote reporting as the name suggests allows a victim of a crime or “incident” to report the matter to a third party agency that in turn forwards the report to the police. The third party agency may be able to offer support and advice to the victim, or refer the victim on to an appropriate support service, and can act as a formal or initial link between the victim and the police. The Advice Place offers the remote reporting service. For a list of other agencies who also do, see http://www.lbp.police.uk/takecontrol/
Religion and Faith The University Chaplaincy provides pastoral and spiritual support for students and staff of all faiths and none. They offer support through the presence of a Chaplaincy team and staff and through places for meeting, reflection, one-to-one support and hospitality. The Chaplaincy Centre at Potterrow is a very popular place for people to meet and offers a space for drop in sessions, quiet reflection, study, viewing exhibitions, use of the resource
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centre, pastoral support, and the meetings of a wide variety of student societies. The welcome and hospitality services of the Centre include tea, coffee, newspapers, comfy seats and a piano. Also on offer is the canvas Labyrinth which is available between 11.30am and 3.30pm on one Monday of each month. There is also a permanent Labyrinth in George Square Gardens which is available on weekdays between 7am and 7pm (4pm in the winter). The Labyrinth is a winding path which offers 20-30 minutes of relaxation time. It allows you to clear your mind of anxieties and stresses. There are also several contemplation rooms and prayer spaces available such as the contemplation rooms on the Kings Buildings site (within the Muslim prayer rooms) and on the Summerhall site. There are also Muslim prayer rooms available on both the Kings Buildings site and the Moray House site of the University. New College has a contemplation room called “The Sanctuary” which is underneath the Library. You can access it via the courtyard. Little France has “The Sanctuary” in the South Corridor, Ground Floor. For more information see www.chaplaincy.ed.ac.uk
Sexuality The sudden freedom which university offers can bring to the fore issues you may not have thought about before or it can give you the space and time to form your own identity. Sexuality is one of these issues which you may well debate during your time as a student. If you feel confused or in need of advice, there is help available through the Lothian Gay and Lesbian Switchboard (call 0131 556 4049 for the main line or 0131 557 0751 for the lesbian line) which operates every evening between 7.30pm and 10pm. Within the University itself, BLOGS, Edinburgh University’s Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex society offers an opportunity to meet people through informal meetings and events.
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Health & Lifestyle
Disability The University of Edinburgh warmly encourages enquiries from disabled applicants and students, including those with specific learning difficulties (e.g. dyslexia), mental health problems, long-term illnesses and temporary impairments. The Disability Office aims to create an environment which enables disabled students to participate fully in the mainstream of university life. The university tries to achieve an inclusive environment through flexible methods of teaching and assessment, and by progressively improving access to buildings and technology. Should you have a pre existing condition upon coming to Edinburgh; the Disability Office will offer help and advice in order to ensure that your time at University is as easy as possible. For more information see: www.disability-office.ed.ac.uk
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Chapter 3
Graduation Day
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Getting Your Degree
3. YOUR DEGREE
Contents 36 - In-Course Assessment 37 - Exams 39 - Studying & Revision
Although it may not seem like it in Freshers’ Week, you are actually in Edinburgh to study and eventually graduate! This is another area which will differ from your school days and so it is worth familiarising yourself with what to expect. This chapter will explain how your degree is delivered and what assessments you are expected to undertake. Finally, there are some revision tips to help you get started as well as some advice should things go wrong.
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Chapter 3 certain regulations that must be followed, for example referencing guides, when submitting essays. You will normally find these in your course handbook, which you should make sure that you read. The essays will be marked, often anonymously, by your tutors and handed back with feedback. You should ensure that you are happy with the feedback provided and know what you done right as well as where you can improve. If you are unclear about this, you should speak to your tutor. The late submission of essays will normally be penalised by a deduction in your overall mark. If you have extenuating circumstances which require an extension you should speak to your tutor or DoS as soon as possible.
Plagiarism Plagiarism is the act of including or copying, without adequate acknowledgement, the work of another in one’s work as if it were one’s own. The two most common forms of plagiarism by students are:
In-course assessment The assessments you are expected to complete come in different forms depending on what you are studying. Many degrees will use essays but science students will be required to write lab reports. Some subjects, including but limited to science subjects, may use other forms of assessment such as field trips, placements, group work and presentations. What assessment is required for each course and how these will contribute to your overall mark will be outlined in your course handbook.
Essays Many schools use essays to assess your knowledge of the course. The length of the essay will vary and you should receive information on this at the start of the semester. You will also be provided with
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• a student copying material from published sources and presenting it as his/her own work a student copying material from past or current students and presenting it as his/her own work It is important to reference your work properly when using the work of any other person and that any direct quotes are contained within quotation marks. Further information can normally be found in your course handbook, which you should make sure to read. The University also provides general guidance on how to avoid plagiarism at: http://www.aaps.ed.ac.uk/regulations/ Plagiarism/Intro.htm The University takes the issue of plagiarism extremely seriously and puts essays
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Getting Your Degree through the Turnitin system which compares essays against the internet and databases of previous students essays to check for plagiarism. Where plagiarism is detected, this will be investigated and can have serious consequences, so you should make sure that you read the referencing and plagiarism guidance to avoid this. If you find yourself in a position where you have been accused of plagiarism, The Advice Place can offer impartial and confidential advice and support.
Exams Exams will often form the biggest part of your assessment at University and they normally take place at the end of each semester. However, class exams can be set throughout the semester. For information on exam timetables, past papers and regulations, see: http://www.registry.ed.ac.uk/Examinations/
Class Exams While they will not contribute to your overall mark, class exams can help you to focus your revision and to give you an idea as to your level of knowledge. They also help you to set a routine in preparation for degree exams. Veterinary Medicine students in particular will often sit class exams which will normally count towards the overall mark.
Degree Exams The main exam diets are at the end of each semester in December and May, although some courses are examined throughout the year. Degree exams in non-honours years should be passed to progress to honours. Final Degree Exams are taken in your honours years and will largely determine your overall degree classification.
should receive information on this from your School.
Exam Procedures There are a number of required procedures that you must follow and rules that apply in exams: • Take your matriculation card as you will require this so that the invigilators can ensure you are sitting your own exam and not letting someone else sit it for you. • Ensure that you arrive on time. You may be refused entry if you are more than fifteen minutes late or be asked to complete a late arrival form. You will not be allowed any additional time. • You cannot leave the exam in the first thirty minutes or during the final fifteen minutes. Exams are marked anonymously to ensure an absence of bias. A common marking scheme is in operation to ensure uniformity of standards in marking. The timing of the publication of results can vary depending on the course you are taking. Results are normally available online through MyEd and may be posted on a course notice board in your subject area/School.
Failing an exam Should you fail an exam during your first two years you will normally be allowed to resit it during the August exam diet. However, you will not normally be allowed to further your study of this course if you have failed the exam. A failed exam in second year will likely mean you cannot progress to honours, as you cannot normally progress to honours through passing a resit exam. Honours exams cannot normally be resat.
The number of papers you sit and how often you sit them can vary between courses and schools. The extent to which they count towards your final grade can also differ. You
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Chapter 3 • Alleged irregular procedure or improper conduct of an examination • If you are considering making an appeal, you are strongly advised to speak not only with your Director of Studies/Supervisor/Programme Director, but also to contact an advisor at the Advice Place. Academic Advisers in the Advice Place are experienced at advising and supporting students in using the University’s academic appeals procedures. They can offer independent advice and guidance on making an appeal and support you throughout the process. You should always consult your DoS or the Advice Place if you are struggling to cope with the demands of University in order to address any problems at the earliest opportunity.
Exclusion Repeating the year If you fail your resit examinations you may be able to resit the previous academic year, depending on your circumstances. Even if you fail just one exam, you may need to repeat the whole year depending on which exam you have failed. There may also be financial implications to repeating a year, which will vary depending on where you receive your funding from. You can get advice from your DoS and the Advice Place if you need to find out about these options.
Appeals procedure There are two grounds under which you can appeal a mark: • That you have substantial information directly relevant to the quality of your performance in the examination which for good reason was not available to the examiners when their decision was taken.
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Exclusion from the University can be recommended by the University for any student who continually fails to meet the standards expected of them. If this occurs, they will be marked as unsuitable for progression, notified and will normally be interviewed before the University recommends exclusion. If the College decides to forward a recommendation for exclusion on the grounds of unsatisfactory progress to the Senatus, the student has the right to appeal to the Appeal Committee through the University Secretary, but only if the student can meet one of the two appeal grounds noted above. In such a case, the appeal would be heard by the Appeal Committee on behalf of Senatus.
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Getting Your Degree
Studying and Revision
• Write ideas and facts on to cards to use as ‘prompts’.
Revision should be an ongoing process throughout the semester rather than consisting of a last minute cramming session the night before an exam. Try to take notes during lectures and write them up afterwards before filing them. This means that when it comes to revising for exams, you will have a clearer idea of what it is you’re trying to learn. Below are some tips to help you make the most of your studying.
Where to study Creating good conditions in which to study can help you make the most of the time that you spend revising. Here are some suggestions: • Find a quiet place to study and make sure you are sitting comfortably • Make sure your desk is well lit • Keep background noise to a minimum • Avoid studying in an area where there will be distractions (for example, television) • Have everything you need to do your revision on-hand before you start
How to study There is no ‘right way’ to study or revise, as long as the method you choose enables you to gain a solid grasp of key facts and consolidate your knowledge. Some students are happy to read their classroom notes from start to finish, others prefer to simplify the information as much as possible by turning everything into skeleton notes, diagrams or mnemonics. In practice, most students find that mixing techniques suits the varied nature of the subjects being revised, and provides essential variety when studying. • Some ideas that may be useful include:
• Create memory aids such as diagrams or mnemonics (e.g. initial letters to make a word you need to remember.) • Write key facts/notes out and display these around the house where you will see them. • Record yourself reading notes to listen to. • Study with a friend and test each other’s knowledge. • Work through past question papers – and use a watch to time them so that you can practise timing your answers. • Keep yourself more alert by changing revision methods during a session. For instance, try switching from note taking to memorising; from reading to asking someone to test you • Attend any of the relevant revision classes that often take place at the end of each semester
Revision planning When revising, having a revision plan can ensure that you make the best use of your time and that you are confident of revising everything you might need in the exam. Some useful tips for making a revision plan include: • List all your exam subjects and the amount of time you think you will need for each one. It is unlikely that the amounts will be equal. Many people find it advisable to allocate more time to the subject or topics they find the most difficult. • Draw up a revision plan for each week. • Fill in any regular commitments you have first and the dates of your examinations.
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Chapter 3 • Work out the main areas of each course that you need to revise. • Divide your time for each subject into topics based on the units in the revision checklist or syllabus, and make sure you allow enough time for each one. • Plan your time carefully, assigning more time to subjects and topics you find difficult. • Revise often; try and do a little every day. • Plan time off, including time for activities which can be done out in the fresh air. Take a 5 or 10 minute break every hour and do some stretching exercises, go for a short walk or make a drink. • You may find it helpful to change from one subject to another at ‘break’ time to introduce variety and to keep your brain active. • Write up your plan and display it somewhere visible. • Adjust your timetable if necessary and try to focus on your weakest topics and subjects.
Last-minute revision tips If you find yourself cramming at the last minute, there are still some things you can do to make best use of the little time you have: • Use your revision tools (prompts, diagrams etc) to check final facts. • Keep calm and consolidate your existing knowledge rather than trying to learn new topics. • Don’t stay up all night revising; being overtired will not help you to do your best in the exam.
Preparing for and sitting your Exams Exam Stress When exams get too much, the stress can show in your body. You could be showing signs of stress if you: • Feel constantly tired • Ache all over • Cry and feel sad • Have panic attacks • Have broken sleep • Suffer from stomach upsets • Have itchy skin rashes • Are more prone to getting colds and ‘flu If you are suffering from stress, make an appointment with your GP or the Student Counselling Service. Alternatively, if you are struggling to cope with revision see your DoS and they may be able to give you some helpful advice. However, if you are simply feeling nervous, as most people do in the run up to exams, there are some simple steps you can take to ease your nerves: • Create a revision plan to help you feel in control of the process • Plan your work carefully around the topics you need to focus on. Being aware of gaps in your knowledge can create nerves, but having a plan of how you will fill these will make you feel better. • Find out what is involved in the exam: • where and when it will take place? • how long is the exam? • how many questions do you need to answer? • Think positively
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Getting Your Degree • Keep the exam in context – even if you do badly, there will be other options open to you • Allow yourself some time each day to relax • Eat sensibly – your brain cells need energy to function well. Make sure you drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated. Dehydration makes you tired and reduces concentration
• For longer answers, take a few minutes before you begin to produce a structured plan of what you are going to include in each section. • Allow yourself ten minutes at the end to read through your answers and correct any mistakes. • Cross out anything you do not want the examiner to read (e.g. an earlier answer to a question).
Sitting the exam
After the exam
There are a few things that you can do to maximise your chances of doing well in your exams, besides studying and revising effectively:
• It is easy to fall in to the trap of wondering how well you performed and to discuss this with your fellow students. Your time would be better spent looking ahead to your next examination.
• Be prepared; find out what is involved in each of the examinations that you are going to sit. • Organise yourself the night before and get plenty of sleep. • Check that you have the correct equipment with you before you leave the house (pens, pencils, ruler, scientific calculator, etc). • Do take a watch or clock so that you can time your answers.
• Don’t panic – you won’t be the only student who is anxious about their answers. • Don’t compare your answers with those of other students – this can create negative feelings. • Have some fresh air and food and take time to relax before you start revising again.
• Leave for the exam in plenty of time.
• Don’t rush to your textbooks to check your answers – there is no point at this stage.
• Look through the paper first and mark difficult questions/initial thoughts.
• Focus on the next exam and how you might improve your exam technique.
• Select the questions that will best enable you to demonstrate your knowledge to the examiner.
• Have a quick look at your revision plan. Do you need to adjust it?
• Look at the marks available and read the questions carefully, following instructions given in the paper. • Pace yourself and allow enough time to answer all the required questions. • Write as neatly as possible to help the examiner to mark your work. Marking untidy writing is difficult.
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Chapter 4
In the library
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Resources
4. RESOURCES
Contents 44 - Library Resources 46 - Computing at the University 48 - Acquiring Skills
Although you will have a large degree of independence while studying in Edinburgh, there are a number of sources of help which you can make use of. Whether you need to borrow a book or print out an essay at the last possible moment – which is not recommended practice - you can be sure that there are sources of help which you should be aware of. This chapter explains the various resources available.
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Chapter 4 and it’s likely that most students will end up studying there at some point. Students in the College of Humanities and Social Science in particular are likely to spend a good deal of their time there. The Main Library is undergoing major re-development. In Summer 09 the redeveloped ground floor opened with new facilities including additional flexible study space, group study pods, a helpdesk and reception, enhanced high-use books collection and a large café with outside seating and web access. The whole floor is wireless enabled with PC’s available. The first floor is now closed for re-development.EUSA is in dialogue with the library to make sure that students are kept up to date when disruptions to study are forecast. The library has committed to informing students about study disruptions via MyEd, as well as plasma screens and signs in the Main Library. Up to date information on the redevelopment is available from: www. is.ed.ac.uk/mlrp/index.html.
Library Resources University Libraries The university has a number of libraries. The ones you use will probably depend where you are studying and where you live. For full information on the University’s libraries and their opening hours see: www.lib.ed.ac.uk/sites/sites.shtml You can visit any of these libraries as an Edinburgh University student and each has an impressive collection of books and journals available electronically which you can use remotely.
If you find that the redevelopment is affecting your study, contact both the library and EUSA by sending an email to library. works@eusa.ed.ac.uk.
Class Libraries Some individual schools and departments have their own class libraries. These are smaller than the main library but should be tailored to the needs of the students studying within the particular school. The department or school that runs the library will decide what the borrowing arrangements and opening times are, so these will vary. For more information, see www.lib.ed.ac.uk/ sites/classlib.shtml.
The Main Library in George Square has the longest opening hours (now opening until 12 midnight 7 days a week during Semester)
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Resources Reference Books such as encyclopaedias, maps and journals which cannot be removed from the library.
Reserve The most sought after and commonly used books are available in the Reserve section (also called the HUB or High Use Books Reserve section in the Main Library). Reserve books can be borrowed for a maximum of three hours and only three Reserve books can be borrowed at any one time. In order to reissue a Reserve book, it must have been available to other students for twenty minutes. If you borrow a book within three hours of the library closing, it can be taken home overnight. If you find that core books on your first year reading list are not available on reserve, speak to your Course Organiser.
Short Loan Books that can be borrowed for up to seven days. The most heavily used short loan books in the Main Library are kept in the HUB.
Searching for Resources Every book and journal held in any of the main university libraries is catalogued and you can search the library catalogue via the Internet at http://catalogue.lib.ed.ac.uk. You can produce lists of the books and electronic resources that you can access by using Searcher, the search engine listed on the top right hand corner of the Library Online homepage (www.lib.ed.ac.uk). Each book has an individual reference number known as a shelfmark, and you should familiarise yourself with where different books are kept and in which library. You may find it confusing at first but after a little time using the library, you will soon be able to find the books you need relatively easily and quickly.
Categorisation There are four main categories of books in the library:
Standard Loan Books that can be borrowed for up to four weeks by Undergraduates and for 12 weeks by Postgraduates. You can borrow up to fifteen books at any one time and you will be sent an email (to your university email address) reminding you to return them and of any fines you have incurred. You can renew books from any PC using the Internet by using the library website, so long as no one else has reserved them.
Reserving Books If you require a book that is already on loan, you can have it recalled. The librarians can do this for you and you will be informed by email when the book is ready for you to
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Chapter 4 collect. Books you have out on loan can also be recalled and you will be required to return them within 7 days if someone else recalls a book that you have on loan.
Journals The University of Edinburgh subscribes to many of the major academic journals. Aside from the ones in the library, many are accessible online. Journals provide an important source of information which allows you to broaden your knowledge of a subject area in ways textbooks can’t always do. Some printed journals can be borrowed but usually they have to be read in the Library.
Printing Each student has a printing account which can be topped up using the print credit machines at the larger libraries and computing labs. This is the only computing service that you are required to pay for. Students will now be able to print directly from Windows XP laptops in open access computing labs. For more information on how to do this, visit: http://www.students.ucs.ed.ac.uk/ helpdesk/student/system/show. cfm?documentID=7769
Photocopying The library also offers photocopying facilities and copycards can be bought at any of the libraries. Cards are available in different denominations and the more expensive the card, the cheaper the photocopying works out per page. Some shops around the George Square area will also offer photocopying at varying rates.
Computing at the University Computers will no doubt already be an integral part of your life and this is unlikely to change when you arrive at university. Whether you need to spend hours in the labs working on projects or you simply need to type up an essay, there will be plenty of times when you need to rely on the wonders of technology. Information Services staff can be of great help to those who are a little unsure when it comes to the art of mastering the often-temperamental PC. For more information see: www.ucs.ed.ac.uk/usd/student/ Student iSkills Seminars are an excellent way to get to grips with issues such as presentations, spreadsheets and multimedia. They also offer an introduction to IT which covers the basic must know aspects of using a computer. For those of you with your own computer, the Introduction to maintaining your Windows XP PC course helps you to help yourself when it comes to minor problems while laptops can be looked over at a Windows Laptop Check-up. There are also several courses run by Computing Services if you need to familiarise yourself with the internet and how its works. More information on the Student iSkills seminar programme see: http://www.ucs.ed.ac.uk/usd/student/courses
Computing Labs The main computer labs at the university are in the Main Library, Kings Buildings and the 24 hour Hugh Robson Building. For information on the computers available and the opening times, see www.ucs.ed.ac.uk/ fmd/central_labs.html. Open access computers are available on a first come first served basis. Computers in Cafe areas have a restricted selection
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Resources of software: Web browsers and Microsoft Office to support a quick turnaround of users, all other open access computers have a more extensive suite of software. Some open access computer areas are used for class teaching and online examinations. If you have an assignment deadline, it's worth checking local notices to see whether all or some machines in the area you want to use have been block booked. Individual schools may also offer their own computer services, especially Veterinary Medicine and some schools within the College of Science and Engineering. Access is normally via your matriculation card. You may also be required to sign in and out of some labs.
Logging On To log on to one of the university’s computers you will require a username and password. The former is simply your matriculation number preceded by an ‘s’ and the password is sent out to you in your university welcome pack – you can change it to something more memorable later. The university uses a system called EASE which allows you to log in once to access many different services such as email, MyEd etc.
WebCT WebCT is a ‘virtual learning environment’ which contains information for many courses at the University, including course handbooks, lecture notes and assignments. It is also used by students on some courses to sign up for tutorials and to submit essays electronically. WebCT can be found under the Courses tab of MyEd. If you have questions about how to use WebCT, the best person to speak to initially is your Course Organiser. In certain areas of the university, other Virtual Learning Environments are used, e.g. the School of Education uses a system called First Class.
SMS Email Each student is provided with a university email address which begins with an ‘s’, then your matriculation number, followed by @sms.ed.ac.uk. Any communication from your school is directed to your email account and this is also how your tutors and
MyEd Your one stop shop for everything university related, MyEd contains your personal information including your degree details and grades as well as providing up to the minute information on what’s happening at the university. You can access MyEd by browsing to www. myed.ed.ac.uk and logging in with your EASE login. It pays to get familiar with the structure of MyEd when you first arrive, as many important announcements will be sent to students on MyEd.
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Chapter 4 your DoS will keep in touch. The university recognises SMS email as the official means of getting in contact with students so will assume that you are reading these emails. You can arrange for them to be forwarded to another account if you prefer.
Wireless Networking You can access the university network by wireless network from many locations around campus, for example the Unions and the Library. See www.ucs.ed.ac.uk/wireless for a full list of wireless locations and details of how to register for the wireless service. A little known fact is that you can also access the university network from internet-enabled computers outside the university through the Virtual Private Network (VPN). The website above also explains how you can do this.
ensure you meet your short and long term targets or they can provide help for those of you who haven’t yet thought about what to do after University. The Careers Service also offers advice on job hunting whilst at university, for example through provision of help with application forms and CVs. SAGE, a service run by the careers service, advertises part time vacancies that are suitable for students as well as placement opportunities and voluntary work. More information is available from www.careers. ed.ac.uk/SAGE/ There are many resources to help you, so if you need them, make sure that you use them!
Acquiring skills The Centre for Teaching, Learning and Assessment (TLA) offers the chance to improve certain skills within the confines of the University. From workshops to individual advice, you are never short of a source of help, whether to improve your computer skills or your essay writing. For further information on the courses available, see www.tla.ed.ac.uk EUSA also run workshops which are facilitated by a qualified trainer and are highly interactive, involving group work. With a maximum number of students for each one, you can be sure you will get the most out of them. A list of the workshops available can be found at http://www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/training. The Careers Service is the place to visit if you need any advice on your future career. They can provide you with advice on developing strategies to
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Chapter 5
Moving in !
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Second Year and beyond
5. Second year and Beyond
Contents 52 - accommodation 56 - finances
Congratulations! You’ve survived your first year and are no longer a Fresher! Second Year will not be too dissimilar to your first twelve months in Edinburgh; you will need to choose your academic courses once more and your degree will continue in a similar vein. It is your personal life that will change with most people moving out of university accommodation and into a private flat which brings its own rewards and responsibilities. You will however, hopefully, be wiser as well as older and be able to deal with everything that comes your way but this chapter will give you an idea of what to expect.
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Chapter 5 with a group of people, and would like to find a single room in a student flat, you can do this too. You should check the accommodation notice board outside the EUSA offices in the Potterrow student centre and other notice boards around the University. A useful website for finding individual rooms in student flats is www. studentpad.co.uk, although the website is also useful for finding whole flats for you and your potential flat mates. Check out the EUSA website at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/ accommodationfinder for rooms too.
Letting/Estate Agents
Accommodation Most students will move into private accommodation for their 2nd year but university accommodation is still available to students in 2nd year and above. Allocation of this University accommodation usually takes place in February, see www.accom. ed.ac.uk for details. Below are some tips on what to do when looking for accommodation, and your rights and responsibilities once you have moved in to your new residence.
Looking for flats Once you have decided who you will be sharing with, its time to start looking for flats. Many properties are available for rent from the summer but be aware that trying to find flats available from August is difficult in Edinburgh due to many landlords opting to rent them out during the Edinburgh Festival. If you have not arranged to move into a flat
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A visit to the Edinburgh Landlord Accreditation (ELA) site is worthwhile to get a list of approved landlords and letting agents and search their available properties. The ELA was set up to raise standards and recognise good practice in the private rented market in Edinburgh and all landlords and letting agents registered must adhere to certain standards. See www. edinburghlandlordaccreditation.co.uk for more details.
Press Several newspapers have property sections, including the Scotsman newspaper and the Edinburgh Evening News. The Edinburgh Solicitors Property Centre (ESPC) publication comes out every Wednesday and is available from most banks and estate agents as well as the Advice Place or check online at http://www.espc.co.uk/
Internet One of the best ways to search for flats is on the internet. Many websites allow you to specify how much you want to pay, how many bedrooms you need and whereabouts you would like to live. Beware though: if responding to adverts on internet sites you
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Second Year and beyond should never send money to anyone to secure a property without first viewing the property, confirming that they are a genuine landlord, confirming that it is their property and seeing the terms and conditions of the lease. Unfortunately, there have been reports recently of a small number of scam adverts on some sites whereby prospective tenants have paid money to secure a property at the ‘landlords’ insistence in to a Western Union account before being allowed to view the property. In actual fact there is no property and no landlord. In these cases you will never hear from this person again once you have paid over the money and you will not be able to recover your money. In Scotland all landlords must now, by law, register with the local council. You should always ask for the address of the property as well as the owner or landlords’ full name. Once you have these you can then find out if they are a genuine landlord by checking to see if they are legally registered with the local council by going on to the landlord registration website at https://www. landlordregistrationscotland.gov.uk/Pages/ Process.aspx?Command=ShowHomePage
• Check the size of the rooms, especially the bedrooms and the living room if the flat has one and check what furnishings will be included. • Remember, when you view a rental property, you’re generally agreeing to take it “as seen” - meaning that the landlord or letting agent is under no obligation to change anything once the lease is signed. • If you didn’t bother to test the water pressure or pay attention to the immediate vicinity, there’s not a lot you can do about it once you’ve signed on the dotted line. • Make sure you examine each room so that you are aware of any defects. • Check whether or not you can put your own stuff on the walls, change the colour scheme or keep pets in the property. This will normally be specified in your tenancy agreement. If you are unsure of the terms of your tenancy agreement, visit the Advice Place. We can check your lease before you sign it, and make you aware of your rights and responsibilities.
Viewing flats
• Check out the local area to see if there is parking and what amenities are available.
Once you have found a flat you think will be suitable and made an appointment to view it, take some time to read over these tips so that you are prepared to make an informed decision on the day.
Once you have moved in
• Don’t let anyone try to rush you through a viewing. This is probably your only opportunity to judge the place, so take your time and ask any relevant questions.
• As soon as you move in you are advised to take photos of anything that is wrong with the property, preferably with a date on it so that you don’t get charged for damage you didn’t cause when you move out.
• It’s a good idea to be as prepared as possible before you view a property. Draw up a check list to take along to make sure the flat has everything you need.
• Make sure the landlord supplies you with an inventory and ensure that you check it properly. Any damage, missing items, stains on carpets or furniture, marks on walls etc should be noted on
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Chapter 5 the inventory when you first move in. Once checked and noted, you should then sign and date the inventory and give a photocopy to the landlord or letting agent to ensure you are not held responsible at the end of your tenancy. The inventory should also be checked when you leave the property to ensure that everything is present and correct. If you landlord fails to provide you with an inventory then write one up yourself (or pick one up form the Advice Place) and give them a signed, dated copy with all damage highlighted on it. • If your landlord claims that they need to deduct money from your deposit for repairs, make sure you ask for a breakdown of the costs so you can query it if need be. Ask for copies of receipts or invoices for any work that they say needs to be done – there’s nothing like discovering six months later that you’ve been charged £150 to cover a small chip in the paintwork. • Search around for the best deals for internet, gas, electricity, phone and digital TV providers but, make sure you obtain the landlord or letting agent’s permission before switching electricity, gas or phone line suppliers. Always take a note of the meter readings as soon as you move in or out of a property and make sure you give them to the utility company. If you don’t, you may find yourself paying for gas or electricity for previous tenants.
• The safety of gas and electrical appliances. By law, all gas appliances must be checked every 12 months by an authorised registered gas fitter and there should be a certificate in the property to confirm this has been done within the past 12 months. There should also be an electrical safety inspection done on the property every 5 years by an approved contractor. • The fire safety of furniture and furnishings provided under the tenancy. All furnishings must conform to British Safety standards and should have labels to confirm this. If the furnishings provided look old or do not carry labels confirming that they conform to British Safety standards then ask the landlord to replace them. • Ensuring that the property is tenantable & habitable and wind & watertight: so leaky roofs and windows are not acceptable. Also, check when you first move into the property for signs of vermin such as mice, if there is evidence of vermin then ask the landlord or letting agent to deal with it immediately.
Letting Agents Responsibilities • They should provide you with a tenancy agreement which specifies the terms and conditions of your tenancy.
Landlord’s responsibilities
• To supply you with contact details of the landlord within 21 days of a written request. Failure to do this is a criminal offence which may result in them being fined up to £2500.
• Repairs to the structure and exterior of the property, heating and hot water installations, basins, sinks, baths and other sanitary installations. However, note that if you do any damage to the property then you will be expected to pay for it.
• To provide at least twenty four hours written notice if they wish to enter the flat for repairs or to show around prospective tenants, unless it is an emergency such as a gas leak or burst pipe - in which case they can expect to be admitted at short notice.
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Tenant’s Responsibilities
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)
• Paying the rent, as agreed, on time; taking proper care of the property and reporting any damage or need for repairs to the landlord or letting agent immediately. If you do not report any problems immediately you can be held financially liable for the damage, even if it was not your fault.
An HMO property is one in which three or more unrelated adults live in. In all cases landlords who operate an HMO property will need a licence issued by the local authority. All rented properties should also be registered with the local authority, whether or not they are HMO properties. The HMO licence holder must:
• Paying bills for gas electricity, telephone, etc, if this was agreed with your landlord. • Paying the council tax, or ensuring that you apply for an exemption from the local authority, if you are a full time student.
• Provide each tenant with a clear statement, in a form they can understand, of what is expected of them and what they can expect from the licence holder, such as how much rent is to be paid, how often and who is responsible for cleaning and maintenance. • Take steps to ensure that the property, fittings and furniture, including fire precautions and gas and electrical installations, are adequate and maintained throughout the period of the licence to the required standard. This includes providing mains operated smoke alarms and ensuring that fire doors are fitted where necessary. • Act lawfully and reasonably in handling any advanced or ongoing payments of rent or deposits; returning deposits at the end of the tenancy; making only reasonable deductions from deposits to cover items such as rent arrears, unpaid bills and damage; ending tenancy agreements properly and legally. • Ensure that a telephone line is available, or that the whereabouts of the nearest public phone is made known to enable tenants to phone the fire brigade if required. • Display the HMO licence and licence conditions in the property for tenants to see.
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Chapter 5 • Provide adequate facilities for the storage and disposal of refuse. The licence holder shall make the tenants fully aware of their responsibilities. If there will be 3 or more unrelated adults living in the property then make sure you check that the flat you intend to rent has an HMO licence. The HMO licence conditions should be displayed in the property; if not then ask to see them. You can also check the property has a licence by emailing the HMO team at hmo@edinburgh.gov.uk If you encounter any problems with your tenancy during your stay here and you are not sure what to do about it, come in to the Advice Place and we can tell you how to deal with any issues.
Finances If you were in halls of residence during your first year and are now moving in to private or self catered accommodation you will now have to think about budgeting to pay for bills. How much you spend each will depend on your individual circumstance and below is a rough guide to how much you should budget for essential items:
Rent This is probably the biggest amount you will have to pay out each month. Rent amounts will vary depending on the property you live in and where you live. You should expect to pay around £360 per month towards this. Most landlords and letting agents expect rent to be paid by monthly direct debit so make sure you know when it is due to go out of your account and that there are sufficient funds available.
Food if you are a single student with no dependants then you should budget at least £40 per week for food.
Laundry and toiletries at least £10 per week.
Gas and Electricity £20 per week depending on what type of accommodation you live in and the type of heating system installed in it. Ideally arrange to pay your bills by monthly direct debit as this will spread the cost throughout the year thus avoiding those huge bills in the winter dropping through your door with a demand to pay in full within 14 days. Often you can get a discount if you use the same supplier for both gas and electricity and pay by direct debit so shop around for the best deals. Check out http://www.uswitch.com/ to find the best option for you.
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Second Year and beyond
TV License This is essential, unless you want to face a fine of up to £1000. You need a TV Licence if you watch or record television programmes as they’re being shown on TV regardless of what equipment you use such as laptops, PC, mobile phones, digital box, DVD recorder or a TV set. A colour TV license costs £142.50 per year and you can either buy one outright or pay for it by direct debit, quarterly or by weekly cash payment plan. Information on how to obtain and pay for your license is available from http://www. tvlicensing.co.uk/index.jsp
Insurance You are strongly advised to take out insurance for your personal items while living in private accommodation making sure expensive items such as laptops are included. Expect to pay at least £6 per week for cover.
you will have to buy them, for example a coat in winter. On top of the essential items listed above you should also think about how much you will have to budget for books, photocopying and stationary depending on your course. If you have to travel into university find out about bus or train fares and also budget a small amount each week for a social life or any activities such as gym memberships. If at any point throughout the academic year you find yourself struggling to make ends meet come into the Advice Place and ask about financial assistance. The university does have a fund of money to help out with living costs however, you are expected to have taken out any student funding and overdraft facilities you may be eligible for before applying for assistance.
Telephone/internet This will depend on whether you use a mobile or whether you have a landline in the property and how often you use it. You should think of budgeting at least £20 a week for this if you have both a mobile and a landline. However, take time to check out what’s available as often you can get deals which include a landline and internet from about £14 per month depending on the phone/internet provider. You may also be able to change your mobile phone contract or provider to get a better deal if you will be relying more on your mobile to make calls.
Clothes and shoes You may already have a wardrobe full of clothes, and this is probably not something you would normally buy on a weekly basis but you should budget at least £10 a week towards the cost of these. At some point
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Chapter 5
Council Tax The Council Tax is a charge made by local authorities for each property within the area. It is partly a property tax and partly a personal tax which helps pay for local services. Most people are liable to pay the council tax charge once they reach the age of 18. If however you are enrolled on a full-time course of study at a UK educational establishment then you would normally be granted exemption from payment of council tax. There are however some exceptions to the rule. In order to satisfy the ‘full-time’ criteria you must: • Be studying on a specified course of study for at least 21 hours per week for at least 24 weeks per year • Be within the prescribed period for your course (except for 4th year PhD students, who can still qualify. However, 5th year PhD students are considered to be out with their prescribed period of study) If you are an overseas visiting student and are enrolled at the university for six months or less then you will not be exempt from council tax payment as your period of study does not satisfy the above rules which state that your course should officially last for at least 24 weeks per year. Part-time students are also not exempt from council tax payment. As a result you will have to pay the council tax charge if you are not living in halls of residence so you should ensure that you budget for this. If you do live in halls of residence then the local council grant automatic exemption to properties attached to educational establishments therefore, you do not need to take any action.
who are applying for exemption on the basis that the property is occupied by fulltime students will have to inform City of Edinburgh Council that they are students. This is done by the tenants of the property sending a letter to the council informing them of all tenants’ names, their address and the date they moved into the property as well as the matriculation numbers of all students and a note of which educational establishment they are studying at. The council will then check this against a list of names and matriculation numbers provided by the university and will exempt any full time students who satisfy the criteria. If there are full-time students sharing a property with non-students and/ or part-time students then the council will issue a bill to anyone in the property who is not a full-time student (full-time students are not named on the bill as long as the council have been informed of their status). It is your responsibility to inform the local council of your student status as soon as you enrol at the university or, if you move to a different property throughout the year. Failure to do this may result in you receiving a bill for council tax. If you live out with the Edinburgh area then you will have to provide a certificate of student status to your local council to obtain the council tax exemption. This certificate can be obtained from Registry at Old College and is only given out to students not living within the Edinburgh area.
If you live in rented accommodation, whether owned by a private landlord, or owned or managed by the University Accommodation Services, then you will be assessed for council tax liability. Students
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www.eusa.ed.ac.uk
•
Second Year and beyond
accommodation finder
Your online EUSA guide to accommodation in the city of Edinburgh
• Flats Available for 2009 • Letting Advice • Buying and Selling • Where to Live • Where to Look
eusa.ed.ac.uk/accommodationfinder www.eusa.ed.ac.uk
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Chapter 6
Direc t ory
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Directory
6. Directory
Contents 62 63 65 65
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EUSA University Services Money Welfare Services
All the numbers you need !
www.eusa.ed.ac.uk
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Chapter 6
EUSA
The Advice Place
enquiry@eusa.ed.ac.uk www.eusa.ed.ac.uk
email: advice.place@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Central Area
Unions The Potterrow, 5/2 Bristo Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9AL 031 650 2656 potterrow.reception@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Teviot Row House Bristo Square EH8 9AL 0131 6504673 teviot.reception@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Bristo Square Edinburgh EH8 9AL 0131 650 9225 Opening hours Term Time: Mon/Thurs/Fri: 09.45am - 4.45pm Tues: 9.45am – 7.00pm Wed: 10.30am - 4.45pm Vacation Mon -Fri 11am - 2pm
Kings Buildings
Kings Buildings
Kings Buildings House West Mains Road Edinburgh EH9 3JF 0131 650 5822
Mayfield Road Edinburgh EH9 3JF 0131 6505772 Kb.reception@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Opening Hours Term Time: Mon to Fri 11.00am - 2.00pm
Pleasance 60 The Pleasance Edinburgh EH8 9TJ 0131 6502349 pleasance.reception@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Vacation: 11.00am – 2.00pm Wednesday only
Holyrood Patersons Land 37 Holyrood Road Edinburgh EH8 8AQ 0131 651 6060
Sabbaticals President president@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Vice President Societies and Activities vpsa@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Opening Hours Term Time: Mon to Fri 11.00am – 2.00pm Vacation: By appointment
Vice President Academic Affairs vpaa@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Vice President Services vps@eusa.ed.ac.uk
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Directory
University Services
Registry
Accommodation Services
South Bridge EH8 9YL 0131 650 2845 registry@ed.ac.uk
www.registry.ed.ac.uk
Old College
www.accom.ed.ac.uk
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
Reception Centre Pollock Halls of Residence 18 Holyrood Park Road Edinburgh EH16 5AY 0131 667 1971
www.tla.ed.ac.uk
Centre for Teaching and Learning Paterson’s land Holyrood Road Edinburgh EH8 8AQ 0131 651 6661 tla.centre@ed.ac.uk
Careers Service www.careers.ed.ac.uk
Central Area: 33 Buccleuch Place, Edinburgh EH8 9JS 0131 650 4670 careers@ed.ac.uk
International Office www.international.ed.ac.uk
King’s Buildings:
57 George Square Edinburgh Eh8 9AL 0131 650 2568 enquiries.international@ed.ac.uk
Weir Building West Mains Road Edinburgh EH9 3JY 0131 650 5773
Computing Services
Disability Office www.disability-office.ed.ac.uk
www.ucs.ed.ac.uk
George Square Main Library Edinburgh EH8 9LJ 0131 6503344 eucs@ed.ac.uk
3 South College Street Edinburgh EH8 9AA 0131 6506828 disability.office@ed.ac.uk Opening Hours: Term Term: Mon, Tue, Thu* and Fri- 9am-5pm Wednesday- 11am-5pm
www.eusa.ed.ac.uk
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Chapter 6 Vacation: Mon, Tue, Thu* and Fri- 9am-1pm and 2pm5pm Wednesday- 11am-1pm and 2pm-5pm
Student Counselling Service
*1st & 3rd Thurs of each month; office opens at 11.00am
31 Buccleuch Place Edinburgh EH8 9JS 0131 650 4170 student.counselling@ed.ac.uk
University Health Service Richard Verney Health Centre Bristo Square Edinburgh EH8 9AL 0131 6502777 health.service@ed.ac.uk
www.student-counselling.ed.ac.uk
Opening Hours Term time Monday - Friday 9:30am-4.00pm Vacation Monday - Friday 10.00am – 1.00pm
The Surgery is open 8.00am - 6.00pm Monday to Friday for appointments Open access is between 9am-10am. Overnight, at weekends and on public holidays when the Health Centre is closed, NHS24 can be contacted on 08454 242424 for advice.
University Pharmacy
Paterson’s Land Moray House School of Education Holyrood Road Edinburgh EH8 8AQ 0131 651 6200 Opening Hours Monday-Thursday 9:30am - 4.00pm Vacation: closed Weir Building Kings Buildings West Mains Road Edinburgh EH9 3JY Tel: 0131 650 5773
www.pharmacy.ed.ac.uk 6 Bristo Square Edinburgh EH8 9AL pharmacy@ed.ac.uk Opening Hours Term Time: Monday - Friday 9am to 5:30pm Vacation: 9am to 3:30pm Last Wednesday of each month: 9am to 1pm
Opening Hours Monday: 1.00pm – 4.00pm Thursday: 9am-1.00pm Vacation: closed
Academic Contacts The College of Humanities and Social Science www.hss.ed.ac.uk The University of Edinburgh 55-56 George Square Edinburgh
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Directory EH8 9JU Tel: 0131 650 4646 Fax: 0131 650 6512
College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine www.mvm.ed.ac.uk
The University of Edinburgh The Queen’s Medical Research Institute 47 Little France Crescent Edinburgh EH16 4TJ Tel: 0131 242 9300 Email: mvm@ed.ac.uk
Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) www.saas.gov.uk Gyleview House 3 Redheughs Rigg Edinburgh EH12 9HH 0845 111 1711
Welfare Services Alcohol and Drugs
The College of Science & Engineering
Alcoholics Annoymous
www.scieng.ed.ac.uk
www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/ 0845 769 7555
The University of Edinburgh Weir Building The King’s Buildings West Mains Road Edinburgh EH9 3JY Tel: 0131 650 5759 Email: scieng@ed.ac.uk
Crew2000 www.crew2000.co.uk 32 Cockburn Street Edinburgh EH1 1PB 0131 2203404
Drink Line 0800 9178283
Money Student Support Information (for students from England and Wales) www.direct.gov.uk/en/ EducationAndLearning/ UniversityAndHigherEducation/ StudentFinance Student Support Helpline: 0845 300 50 90 Opening Hours Mon – Fri: 8.00 - 8.00 pm Sat & Sun: 9.00 - 5.30 pm
Edinburgh & Lothian Council on Alcohol 6 Clifton Terrace Edinburgh EH12 5DR 0131 337 8188
National Drugs Helpline www.ndh.org,uk 0800 776600
The Smokeline 0800 848484
www.eusa.ed.ac.uk
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Chapter 6 Pregnancy Advice
Edinburgh 0131 668 4486 info@victimsupportsco.org.uk
www.caledoniayouth.org
Caledonia Youth 5 Castle Terrace Edinburgh EH1 2DP 0131-229-3596 edinburgh.information@caledoniayouth.org
Police Stations St. Leonards Police Station
0800 012 322
Divisional Headquarters 14 St. Leonards Street Edinburgh EH8 9QW 0131 6625000
Sexual Health
Gayfield Square Police Station
National Aids Helpline
Department of Genitourinary Medicine 1st Floor, Lauriston Building Lauriston Place Edinburgh 0131 536 2103
2 Gayfield Square Edinburgh EH1 3NW 0131 5569270
Appointments Monday-Friday 9am-4.30pm
9 Howden Hall Road Edinburgh EH16 6TF 0131 6662222
Health
Howden Hall Police Station
The Samaritans www.samaritans.org.uk 08457 909090
Breathing Space www.breathingspacescotland.com 0800 838587
Other Citizens Advice Bureau www.cas.org.uk 58 Dundas Street Edinburgh 0131 5571500
Scottish Women’s Aid www.scottishwomensaid.co.uk 0131 226 6606
Victim Support Scotland
Plan ning
www.victimsupportsco.org.uk 15/23 Hardwell Close
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THE COURSE REVIEWER
YOUR EXPERIENCE, YOUR VIEWS
Spoilt for choice?
Read alternative course reviews by students for students
www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/reviewer Edinburgh University Students’ Association is a Registered Scottish Charity (No.SCO15800)