Verve Magazine - Freshers 2018

autumn.2018

LONDON MET SURVIVAL GUIDE

’ S R E H S E FR N O I T I ED

CAN’T COOK WON’T COOK ACADEMIC CALENDAR

12 THINGS TO DO IN LONDON

Editor’s Letter

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ell, it’s already that time of year! Another academic year begins here at London Met, and we can’t wait to show you what’s ahead as you start or continue your academic journey.

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Our wonderful designer Jamie Bhalla is also on our team: he’s the one making all the magic come to life here at Verve. We cannot wait to see more of his excellent work over the next academic year, as without him Verve Magazine would not look as amazing as it does.

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Living away from home for the first time? Lifestyle Journalist Richie Hancox provides you with his knowledge and expertise in how to cook on a budget on pages 20-22. Even if you’re a professional chef, you won’t want to miss his stepby-step recipes.

freshers’ events

gym and sports activities

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london met survival guide

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life at aldgate holloway map

12 cafés to visit in london

things to do in london during the academic year

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cooking on a budget

university welcome guide

Finally, I will be looking for new faces to come and join Verve all year round.

So, if you are ever interested, pop into the SU or drop an email to vervemagazine@londonmet.ac.uk.

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life at moorgate

If you are student at Moorgate, Verve Magazine’s Music Journalist Natalya Davies tells you all about the Moorgate campus on page 12. And for those beginning life at Aldgate, page 13 provides a small insight into what you can expect when it comes to life around The Cass.

Aaron

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I didn’t go to freshers’ - but you should

Ready for Freshers’ Week? Verve has it covered. Head over to page 4 to see what Freshers’ events take your interest. Unsure about whether or not you want to attend? Check out page 6 to get a clearer understanding of why you should go!

Best,

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Contents

First and foremost, my name is Aaron Patel, and I am a second-year Journalism student and the new Editor of Verve Magazine. I am so excited to be working in this role over the next year. My job will be that much easier as I’ll be working alongside new Deputy Editor Emily Wilkinson, a very talented photojournalist.

Most of all, I hope you have a wonderful year at London Met! The only way is up!

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su guide

all about the north london varsity

Contributors Aaron Patel 2nd year Journalism BA Editor-in-chief

Jamie Bhalla 3rd year Digital Media BA Designer

Richie Hancox 2nd year Photojournalism BA Lifestyle Journalist

Emily Wilkinson 2nd year Photojournalism BA Deputy Editor

Natalya Davies 2nd year Music Business BA Music Journalist

Kamryn McIntosh 3rd year Theatre & Film BA Head of Verve Radio

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Activity should be part of daily life...

FRESHERS’ FORTNIGHT

London Met aims to help you achieve this. Our Active Lifestyles programme offers a wide range of classes, from recreational to holistic. Our Holloway campus Sports Centre offers gym opening times to fit around your studies, and cutting edge equipment.

September

Night

Monday 24

Cocktails available all night,with 2-for-1 between 5pm and 7pm! Urban playlists and games too!

Tuesday 25

Thursday 27

Friday 28

COMEDY NIGHT

SPEED DARTING

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5pm–11pm The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry

Wednesday 26

Find some likeminded Freshers, and get your team down to The Rocket. £1 per person, tons of rounds, and prizes to be won!

The most hilarious way to meet new faces around campus... loads of dart boards, loads of partners, loads of laughs!

8pm–10.30pm The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry

8pm–10.30pm The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry with wristband

Come to see us at the Sports Centre for a chat and more information!

What a line up we’ve got in store for you... check Facebook for all the details and get down here at 7:30pm sharp to grab a drink before the show starts!

8pm–10.30pm The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry

Free barbecue, bucket cocktails, and summer tunes in the tropical courtyard, followed

by DJ’s, dancing and glow madness until 3am!

Prices: £3 Metcard, £4 student, £5 guest, free with wristband

9pm–3am (Last entry 1am) The Rocket (Holloway)

October Monday 1

Tuesday 2

Day Night

We’ve packed The Rocket with old-school consoles... Mega Drive, SNES and other retro games! Free play all day and best scores win prizes!

Wednesday 3

Thursday 4

From 3pm The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry

FRESHERS’ FAIR FREE STUFF

3pm–6pm The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry

Cocktails available all night,with 2-for-1 between 5pm and 7pm! Urban playlists and games too!

The first edition of our regular London Met gameshow night.

Buzzers, lipsync and more as we put our SU officers headto-head.

5pm–11pm The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry

7.30pm–10.30pm The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry

FRESHERS’ FAIR FREE FOOD

11am–3pm The Wash Houses (Aldgate)

Frat party is everything you love about Uni... beer pong, cheap drinks and all the tunes you love. We’ve got a crazy golf course all night too!

Prices: £3 Metcard, £4 student, £5 guest, free with wristband

9pm–3am, last entry 1am The Rocket (Holloway)

FREE STUFF

FREE FOOD

11am–3.30pm The Great Hall (Holloway)

We’ve only gone and put a laser tag in The Great Hall! Suit up and get zapping!

2pm–6pm The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry

ROCKET LIVE Show us your superstar potential, get in front of the glitter curtain and strut your stuff... free drink if we think you’re good (or bad) enough!

8pm–1am (Last entry 12am) The Rocket (Holloway) Free entry

The best new live music, followed by an afterparty of RnB, hip hop and afro beats.

Check Facebook for full line up!

Prices: £3 Metcard, £4 student, £5 guest, free with wristband

7pm–2am (Last entry 12am) The Rocket (Holloway)

Two weeks of amazing entertainment starts on Monday 24 September.

New students collect your free entry wristband and guide from The Rocket now. For full info on all events follow our Facebook page.

@londonmetevents

londonmet_events

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@LDNMetGym

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LASER TAG

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Love playing pool and football?

Try Foot Pool, where you kick to pot giant pool balls!

Opening times* Sports Centre Monday–Friday, 8am–10pm Science Centre (Holloway Campus) Saturday–Sunday, 11am–7pm 29 Hornsey Road (*Opening times outside term may vary) N7 7DD London-Met-Gym-and-Sports

RETRO COMP 1

This year we’re excited to offer all of our students FREE gym membership as part of our commitment to supporting student wellbeing.

Make lunch easy...

Met Card App Get a FREE coffee and croissant breakfast!* Download and register our on campus discount app from the Apple or Play Store now, to claim freebies from our catering outlets! *New users only, full terms available at catering outlets. Offer redeemable before midday, Monday to Friday. Offer may be removed without notice.

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Nonetheless, make sure you have fun enjoy yourself and create loads of memories during these years at university, because you won’t get them back…

WHY I DIDN’T GO TO FRESHERS, BUT HERE’S WHY YOU SHOULD!

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eginning university is perhaps the most exciting part of anyone’s life.

Moving away from home to a new city and meeting new people is, for many, a once-in-a-lifetime prospect. It is truly an opportunity to find out who you are.

For some, however, leaving home for the first time can be a nerveracking experience. During my

first semester, I found breaking into university life very tough, as being a first-year student during that awkward first semester can sometimes leave you feeling like a fish out of water.

Twelve months ago, I didn’t even entertain the notion of attending freshers, to some regret. Being a local lad, I was unsure if my experience would have been different. Living at home, I was convinced that freshers would only have been suitable for students living away from home. Now I look back on that thought and realise how wrong I was.

Freshers’ Week is the opportunity to meet people and make friends, which goes a long way in making you feel comfortable with your surroundings and uni life in general.

Not only that, but if you are apprehensive about making friends, then freshers is the perfect chance for you to come out of your shell, to create and share memories.

University is always said to be the best time of your life, so why not let it live up to the hype?

Enjoy yourself with responsibility Of course, have as much fun as possible - but make sure you keep the beginning of term in mind, as lessons are just around the corner.

So, if you are a first year, then I would strongly advise you take the opportunity to do something I didn’t: go to Freshers’ Week.

Understandably, uni life is great fun, especially the social aspect.

But pace yourself and play it safe.

Lessons will be fast approaching so make sure you play it safe and keep an eye on your schedule!

Here’s why you should go!

By Aaron Patel

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LONDON MET SURVIVAL GUIDE

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Make friends. Don’t be afraid to talk to people.

Keep in mind that everyone is in the same situation as you, so chances are they’ll be eager to make friends too. Talk to your coursemates and have a laugh. Making new friends at university will make the experience easier and a whole lot more fun.

Know where you’re going. Get to know your

campus, and use your free time to work out where you need to go, where the important things are and how to navigate your way around. It’s a big place but you can always ask other students for help.

Plot a path in advance so you’re not late for class.

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veryone knows starting university is a scary prospect. You will encounter a new environment and new people, and some students will even be in a new country. Our ten top tips for freshers at London Met can help.

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Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether

you’re lost on your way to a lecture, just can’t seem to find a toilet or don’t know where the Roding Building is, just ask someone. People are always happy to help at London Met. We have a great team of student ambassadors who will point you in the right direction to find the gym or change a module.

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Don’t be afraid to look stupid. Remember that all freshers are in the same boat, so no question is a stupid question. Even if you’re a mature student who may have left education for a while, don’t worry about being the ‘odd one out’.

The old adage is true: if you have a question, ask it, as someone else is probably wondering the same thing.

Use the services. London Met offers a wide

range of services, from sporting activities to emotional advice to academic support. If you need help why not take advantage of them - after all, your tuition is paying for it! This might even mean using the library to sit quietly and write an essay Check out the uni guide on page 23 for further contact info.

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Join clubs and societies. Our university

offers a wide range of clubs and communities open to anyone and everyone. Joining one may help you to find and connect with people who love the same things you do. Or you can start your own! www.londonmetsu.org.uk

Keep your emails refreshed. Throughout

the year you will get emails that invite you to events and encourage you to get involved. Keeping on top of your emails could open a new door for you, and improve your university experience.

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Get to know the area. London Met is

located in one of the most exciting cities in the world. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to opportunity in the capital. Go out after lectures and explore the area, and take advantage of the shopping, theatres, concerts - or even just a cheap pub!

Look after yourself. Stay healthy and happy

as much as you can. Keep on top of your mental well-being and your body, as a healthy mind and body are essential for keeping on top of your work.

Why not join the London Met gym - and/or a sports team? Along with great facilities a variety of classes can help you keep in shape. The gym is now free for all students!

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Be different- just because you’re with new

people in a new environment don’t feel pressured to participate in activities you don’t feel comfortable doing. Always stay true to yourself.

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GET ‘MOOR’ FROM MOORGATE! Who says that life at University has to be all about procrastination - and the inevitability of pasta for dinner?

Food, Glorious Food!

The World is Your Oyster

Your Future Starts Here!

If, like many students (including me), a passion of yours is reserving a large portion of your student loans for the real seven wonders of the world - Chipotle, Doughnut Time, Nandos, Wagamamas, KFC, Dominos and Wasabi - then you have come to the right place!

Not only is Moorgate a hot-spot for a bite to eat, it is also perfect for post-lecture exploring. There is no need to skulk back hopelessly to your room after that accounting lecture. Instead, take your studies off your mind by walking somewhere new and see what you might come across!

Among the obvious indulgences that London has to offer is the fact that our capital city is the perfect place to study, as well as an incredible source of ongoing inspiration. Studying at the Guildhall School of Business and Law in Moorgate is perfect for networking and creating opportunities that will benefit you after your studies.

Situated close to Shoreditch, Liverpool Street and Spitalfields, Moorgate is the perfect spot to indulge - even if you’re just looking for a quick bite or to comfort-eat your way through first semester (we’ve all been there). Honestly, what could be better than having a Chipotle only a minute away from your campus?

Got more than a minute? Good!

We recommend taking a short walk to Spitalfields Market where you can enjoy food good enough to compete with Camden Town. Here, you can choose from a wide variety of food stalls offering everything from Indian to vegan dishes, and if that doesn’t quite tickle your fancy there is also a range of chain restaurants within the area, including Pizza Express, Gourmet Burger Kitchen and Giraffe.

What more could you want?!

If you’re looking for some tourist locations to visit there are many that are closer than you might think.

St Paul’s Cathedral is a stunning location for the finest Instagram moments, or even simply a great place to sit and have some lunch and it’s a mere 12-minute walk from Moorgate campus. And just across the river from St Paul’s is the Tate Modern, a truly spectacular art gallery housing pieces by Picasso, Salvador Dali, Andy Warhol and many more.

If you prefer exploring London’s hidden gems, why not take a luxurious walk to Brick Lane and the Nomadic Community Gardens, located in Shoreditch? They’re unlike anything you’ve ever seen, with recycled materials used to create small huts, sprayed with breath-taking graffiti art to fit perfectly into the urban East End.

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Located close to Bank, Moorgate is a thriving hub for the business world, a perpetually fast-paced and exciting environment. Why wait when you are already in the right place? Get to know people and network as much as you can!

By Natalya Davies

LIFE AT ALDGATE: CREATIVITY AND CULTURE IN ONE!

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he Sir John Cass School of Art, Architecture and Design in Aldgate is London Met’s creative hub. Now ranked the fourth best art school in the United Kingdom, The Cass is the place for students who want to create, inspire and inform.

But what about life around The Cass? Well, luckily for you, Aldgate itself is a one of the best places to explore in the capital.

Brick Lane Market Ah yes, Brick Lane Market. Just a few minutes walk from Aldgate East station, the Market is a melting pot of cultures, which truly is the beauty of London (especially if you’re looking for a quick bite to eat!).

Whitechapel Gallery It is no coincidence that the home of London Met’s creative and artistic minds is within a stone’s throw away from the worldrenowned Whitechapel Gallery.

Displaying some of London’s most unique and creative pieces of art, it’s the perfect place to seek inspiration.

Whitechapel Gallery also offers a broad selection of regular educational projects. So there’s no doubt that being a student at The Cass will provide the perfect chance to gain experience, both inside and outside the classroom. So make sure you visit one of the capitals most exciting galleries!

Whether you are seeking a cup of tea or an exotic meal, Brick Lane Market has a wide variety of cafes and restaurants. Yumchaa café serves over 40 different varieties of tea, so there is no reason you can’t stop and have a brew!

Even if you have a creative eye and like to take pictures, the street art in Brick Lane is more than photogenic.

Or even just an insta worthy selfie!

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If you can make it in Aldgate, you can make it anywhere!

Having the chance to study at The Cass is a wonderful opportunity, but just being located in Aldgate provides a world of opportunities.

Subjects such as art and photography can be explored outside of lessons and one can build a stand-out portfolio which is so important!

Make Aldgate your safe haven during your time at London Met, as it will provide both a wonderful experience for both creativity and cultured minds. Aldgate will allow you fulfil your creavity and stomach.

By Aaron Patel

Library

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Otherwise known as the Learning Centre, this will be the most important place for you to get ahead with your academic career.

Endless resources, such as PCs, books, printers, and study zones, are all at your disposal. You’ll soon find that this is the best place to visit to keep on top of your work. If your peckish, visit the cafe.

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GREEN ZONE

GYM 5

MAIN COURTYARD

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LIBRARY

4 ts’ den * u t S on Uni

TOWER BUILDING

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GRADUATE CENTRE

HOLLOWAY CAMPUS AS SEEN FROM ABOVE *SEE SU GUIDE ON PAGE 31

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If you’re seeking a healthy lifestyle whilst at university, look no further than London Met’s Gym and Sports Hall.

Take advantage of the free gym membership! The many facilities - as well as classes - provide a wonderful chance to live a healthy and fun lifestyle.

MAIN COURTYARD

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Providing both a social and study space, the Graduate Centre is the best of both worlds and caters to many students requirements.

The comfortable sofas provided are also to die for...

Tower Building

Gym and Sports Hall

The Courtyard is the ideal place to catch some fresh air. Come and relax in between lessons and during breaks. Make sure you maximise the summer months and catch some rays!

HOLLOWAY ROAD

GRADUATE CENTRE

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Housing IT studios, TV production rooms and radio studios, the Tower is also home to our exciting newsroom, a dedicated workspace for our journalism students.

GREEN ZONE

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Almost the Narnia of London Met, the Green Zone is the best place if you are in need of a getaway. A wonderful space for a relaxing and quiet place to study, it’s also a great place to catch up with friends.

FIVE FUN AND UNIQUE LONDON CAFES London might be a melting pot for nightlife, but dwellers of the capital are also spoilt for choice when it comes to cafés. London is guaranteed to have the perfect coffee shop for you, no matter if you like to sew while you sip coffee, eat snacks while stroking live crows (this cafe’s now defunct), or tuck into a savoury porridge.

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Cereal Killer Café - Full of old, new and

international cereals, this vibrant and nostalgic restaurant is decorated with all things breakfast.

It might be hard to just pick one, but you can also choose from a variety of 12 different milks and delicious toppings. Enjoy your cereal in one of two locations.

Where? 192a Brick Lane E1 6SA OR Stables Market, Mezz 2, Chalk Farm Road NW18AH

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Ziferblat Café - A café with Russian origins where you pay for how long you’re there, not for what you consume. This relaxing space is a great place to play games, study, write an essay or just socialise with friends. Food and drink and Wi-Fi are all free, you just pay for your time spent in the café.

Where? 388 Old Street, Shoreditch, EC1V 9LT

Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium - Perfect for any

cat lover - diners with feline allergies should run a mile. The cats who live there roam freely around the two-storey café while you eat and drink. Enjoy good food while you play with the friendly ones, but make sure you book because it’s always busy.

Where? 152-154 Bethnal Green Road, E2 6DG

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Elan Café - If you love all things pretty and pink,

this is the café for you. The décor consists of all pink flowers, walls and furniture. With a selection of snacks, drinks and mouth-watering cakes, it’s the perfect place to get that cute Instagram picture with your friends.

Where? 48 Park Lane, Mayfair, W1K 1PR OR 239 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW3 2EP

Draughts Board Game Café - A café that is

exactly what it says on the tin. Choose from their library of games while you enjoy a snack and a drink and sit, relax and play!

Where? 337 Acton Mews, Hackney, E8 4EA

By Emily Wilkinson

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AN ACADEMIC CALENDAR OF 12 FABULOUS THINGS TO DO IN LONDON October 2018:

November 2018:

December 2018:

January 2019:

The UK’s only ski and snowboard festival is held from the 25th-28th

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park’s

Need to do some festive shopping?

New Year Parade in the West End on

Febuary 2019:

March 2019:

April 2019:

May 2019:

London Fashion Week, 16th - 20th

St Patricks’ Day, Go green on Sunday,

London Marathon watch (or take part)

The Men’s FA cup final is on 18th May.

June 2019:

July 2019:

August 2019:

September 2019:

Trooping the colour, 15th June at

Pride London is likely to take place on

Notting Hill Carnival takes place on the

The Totally Thames Festival is set for 1st

festive Christmas extravaganza will be held this year from 17th November - 1st January. Celebrate the Christmas season in style, whether it’s hot chocolate round a warm fire or cocktails with your friends.

What better way to make the colder months a little bit warmer? Visit www. hydeparkwinterwonderland.com for tickets.

October in Battersea Park. From dog sledding to ice skating, this amazing funfest of snow and sport has it all. Visit www.skiandsnowboard.co.uk for more information.

February, at Devonshire Square. This elite fashion show showcases the latest designers’ work for consumers, buyers, and those who want to see and be seen.

For tickets or more information visit www. londonfashionweek.co.uk

March 18th from midday to take part in the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, leaving from Piccadilly Circus. Celebrate St Paddy’s Day in London with Irish food and, of course, green beer and Guinness. Visit www.london.gov.uk for more information.

The Mall, is an annual celebration of the regiments of the British and Commonwealth armies in honour of the Queen’s birthday. It features more than 1,000 officers and others from Her Majesty’s personal guard. This event is free; visit www.qbp.army.mod.uk

July 6th. A celebration of the LGBT+ community at Trafalgar Square, this colourful, fun-filled celebration of equality features a range of events. Visit www. events.prideinlondon.org to take part on the day or volunteer. You won’t want to miss this one!

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Get on down to the Christmas Market at Southbank Centre, 8th December to 6th January. Packed with shopping, shows, seasonal food and drink and lots of glittery lights, it’s a fun place to spend a few hours.

Visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

January 1st. Thousands of performers line the streets to see the “World’s Greatest Street Spectacular”. Festivities start at midday - why not sign up as a performer or volunteer? Visit www.lnydp.com

in on 28th April. Thousands of people will run more than 26 miles through London from Greenwich Park to the Mall. Start training now! Visit www. virginmoneylondonmarathon.com/en-gb/

Celebrate (or commiserate) with or without your football team in any London pub, enjoying the camaraderie of your fellow football fans. Better yet, show up at the game yourself! To buy tickets visit www. ticketing.thefa.com

26th and 27th of August. A vibrant party that’s been taking place in London since 1966, it celebrates Caribbean culture in the capital. Now, it’s the biggest carnival outside Rio. Visit www.nhcarnival.org

- 30th September. An annual celebration of the Thames, it showcases various exhibitions aimed to “inspire, connect and enthral”, and includes river events, performances and boat races. Visit www. totallythames.org

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By Emily Wilkinson

Verve Lifestyle Journalist Richie Hancox shares his knowledge and wisdom, to cooking like a pro whilst on a budget...

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our first weeks at University are a mixture of exploring a new city, meeting new people, trying not to get lost on campus and getting to grips with cooking for yourself.

So the last thing you need are complicated recipes to follow. After asking last year’s freshers for ideas and advice, we have put together your ‘one-pot guide’ to easy cooking. With that comes the bonus of a one-pot wash!

Another important student tip was finding out when the local supermarkets reduce their food.

Most of the large chains have a reduced fridge section, where you can get great deals if you’re willing to look and cook the same day.

1. Chop onion and garlic

2. Add the mince and cook on a medium heat for 4 mins before adding onion and garlic. Cook for a further 5 minutes until mince is mostly browned; break up the mince with the wooden spoon as it cooks.

Spaghetti Bolognese is a student staple. Make a bulk and save what you don’t use in the fridge for the week, or in the freezer for longer. With simple ingredients that don’t cost a fortune you get more nutrition than a pot noodle, making sure you’re ready for the next freshers’ event. These ingredients make enough for four meals.

Ingredients: 500g minced beef (vegetarian option: use Quorn mince) 1 tin tomatoes Two big spoonfuls tomato puree One onion Garlic – 1 clove chopped Dried mixed herbs – one teaspoon One beef (or vegetable) stock cube Salt and pepper – add to season as required Spaghetti – add to serve Splash of olive oil Two cups water

3. Add the tinned tomatoes, tomato puree and water; then crumble in the stock cube along with the dried herbs and stir the mix well as you bring it to the boil.

Cooking utensils: Large saucepan with lid Wooden spoon Kitchen knife

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4. Add the spaghetti to the pan making sure it is covered by the liquid as it softens by pressing it into the sauce with the spoon.

5. Simmer for 18-20 minutes to allow the spaghetti to cook and the sauce to thicken.

6. Serve to yourself and friends whilst admiring how you are a culinary genius and only have one pot to wash.

Hint: Spread butter, chopped garlic and salt onto a cut-open baguette

and lightly brown in oven. Easy-peasy (and cheap) garlic bread to add to your meal.

Hello London Met

By Richie Hancox

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Student hubs

Welcome!

We here at London Met want all newcomers to feel welcome and settle in as quickly as possible. So here is a useful guide that provides information on a variety of services at the University.

You might have questions when starting life at London Met, and it is important to know where you can get these questions answered! We recommend visiting your student hub where you can get help with any queries, including: • booking appointments to see Student Services (including Counselling, Disabilities and Dyslexia Service, and Student Money and Accommodation Advice Service) • answering questions about your ID card, timetable, module results, changes to your course and attendance

Student Liaison team

• providing letters to confirm your enrolment at the University, for example, for council tax exemption or how to open a new bank account For details on how to contact your student hub, including opening times, visit: student.londonmet.ac.uk/student-hubs

The Student Liaison team is committed to your wellbeing. Dedicated advisers for each school provide support to help you succeed on your course. They will also be on hand to provide assistance if you need help engaging with your studies.

For any questions, check out the FAQs section: student.londonmet.ac.uk/student-hubs/faqs Student hubs can be found in the following locations:

Your Student Liaison Adviser can help you with:

• TM1-89 on the first floor opposite The Junction at our Holloway campus

• finding the right support services, both at London Met and in your local area

• MG3-08 on the third floor at our Moorgate campus

• developing your confidence and independence • staying motivated to achieve your goals

• CMGN-24 on the ground floor close to the library at our Aldgate campus

Get in touch with us via your student hub or email us on studentliaison@londonmet.ac.uk.

You’ll be able to visit whichever hub is easiest for you, regardless of which campus you’re studying at.

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London Metropolitan University

@LdnMetWelcome #HelloLondonMet

For more information visit: londonmet.ac.uk/support

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Student Money and Accommodation Advice (SMAA) provide help and advice. Repeat funding is available but we would advise you to book in with an SMAA adviser so that we can go through your options and, where possible, help you apply for extra support.

In need of student money or accommodation advice?

An advice team is always on hand to provide advice and support for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Advice about funding for home and EU students and about student accommodation is available.

Drop-ins (term time only)

Confidential face-to-face drop-in sessions and appointments are available for support and advice on: • making your funding application to Student Finance England or its non-UK team

We offer a first-come, first-seen service, with each drop-in lasting a maximum of 20 minutes. It is advisable to arrive as early as possible or you may be referred to the next drop-in session.

• changing, suspending or leaving your course (should you need it)

Appointments To book an appointment please contact your student hub.

• liaising with other University teams • finding accommodation and dealing with housing issues

If you are an extended degree student starting in 2018-19 (or a continuing student from 2015-16 or 2017-18), you may be entitled to a University bursary.

• finding out about named advisers for care leavers, estranged students and students with children

Been to university before?

If you’ve attended university before in the UK or anywhere else in the world, this will impact on your eligibility for funding.

If you experience a difficult year, Student Services will

Counselling Service

Disabilities and Dyslexia Service

Everyone needs support from time to time and it’s best to seek it before a situation becomes too problematic.

A team of professional counsellors provide confidential one-to-one counselling on a wide range of emotional difficulties including relationships, loneliness, depression, anxiety, sex and sexuality.

The Disabilities and Dyslexia service (DDS) offers advice, information and support for students with a disability or a Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD: such as dyslexia or dyspraxia). This includes support for students who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, blind or partially sighted, have chronic long-term health conditions or have mental health difficulties. Screening is provided to students wishing to clarify if they may have a SpLD.

You can also meet with a counsellor to discuss how to maximise your personal and academic potential.

Plus we run workshops on motivation, goal setting, mindfulness and other transferrable skills.

Mitigating circumstances

You are advised to obtain medical (or other) evidence of your condition and to contact the service as early as possible. This will enable us to provide the best possible help.

Sometimes students can find their studies difficult. This may be the result of a life crisis or emotional difficulty.

Here at London Met, a University counsellor may be able to support you with your application for mitigating circumstances, especially if you have been in regular contact with the service. It is important to contact the Counselling Service as soon as you notice that things are not going to plan.

For full details about what else the Disabilities and Dyslexia Service can help with, visit londonmet.ac.uk/disabilities

londonmet.ac.uk/counselling

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London Metropolitan University

@LdnMetWelcome #HelloLondonMet

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This is administered by the Student Loans Company on behalf of the University.

To find out more please visit: londonmet.ac.uk/extended-degree-support

Information for international students There is a dedicated team here at London Met that aims to make all international students feel at home.

Careers and Employability Service

The International Student Advice Service can assist with any queries you have regarding the Tier 4 visa conditions and rules. You can get advice on: • Tier 4 rules including making applications either within or outside the UK for you and your dependants (visa compliance service) • short-term study visa applications

The Careers and Employability Service can help you develop skills, knowledge and experience for real-world employment, to ensure you can create a successful career.

• how to apply for Schengen visas if travelling in the Schengen area • family visits and the standard visitor visa route

Services offered by the Careers and Employability Service include:

• working in the UK during and after your studies You can also attend events that provide useful tips and information for international students.

• one-to-one career guidance such as how to build a CV, job applications and job interview preparation

All advice staff are fully trained and operate to the Office of the Service Commissioner (OISC) regulation level 2.

• networking and job-hunting events • workshops and seminars

You can contact the international advice service to make an appointment by emailing adviceinternational@londonmet.ac.uk.

International advice sessions are available on Mondays and Fridays.

• Job Shop events providing paid opportunities, placements, part-time, temporary and graduate vacancies Visit the London Met careers portal, which provides CV support, application help, interview practice and other employment resources: student.londonmet.ac.uk/careers

For more information, visit: student.londonmet.ac.uk/international

London Met libraries and special collections

IT services

With a wide variety of resources available at your disposal, London Met’s library services will support your studies through your academic years.

IT support is available on WhatsApp. Visit the app and enter the following number: 07831 145 950

Services include:

Email: itsservicedesk@londonmet.ac.uk

• two libraries at our Holloway and Aldgate campuses

Telephone: 020 7133 4444 (this line is open 24/7, 365 days a year)

• not just physical books but e-books and other online resources

TechSmart drop-in sessions: Term-time, 9am – 4.30pm

• silent and group spaces with PCs in all areas

• Aldgate library: Mondays and Wednesdays

• open until midnight on weekdays and 11am to 7pm on weekends

• Holloway library: Tuesdays and Thursdays

London Met has a huge support team for all IT-related services at the University. These services are vital in your academic career.

Self-service online IT support: londonmet.ac.uk/servicedesk Online chat: student.londonmet.ac.uk/it-chat

• help from your Academic Liaison Librarian • Welcome tours at both libraries – look out for times and dates • special collections at our Old Castle Street building Library locations and opening times are available at: student.londonmet.ac.uk/library-opening Keep up to date with London Met library services on social media: @londonmetlib

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London Metropolitan University

@LdnMetWelcome #HelloLondonMet

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• Moorgate hub: Fridays

Useful contacts Moorgate and Aldgate student hubs

Library

Telephone: 020 7133 7002 (Aldgate) 020 7133 7003 (Moorgate)

Telephone: 020 7133 4444

Email: aldgatehub@londonmet.ac.uk / moorgatehub@londonmet.ac.uk

Holloway hub Telephone: 020 7133 7001 Email: hollowayhub@londonmet.ac.uk

Student Liaison team

*

studentliaison@londonmet.ac.uk

Student Money and Accommodation Advice* SMAA@londonmet.ac.uk

Disabilities and Dyslexia Service Telephone: 020 7133 2188 Email: dds.studentservices@londonmet.ac.uk

Counselling Tel: 020 7133 2093 Email: counselling.studentservices@londonmet.ac.uk

Careers and employment

student.londonmet.ac.uk/library

Students’ Union Telephone: 020 7133 4171 Email: studentsunion@londonmet.ac.uk londonmetsu.org.uk

Tuition fees and funding* londonmet.ac.uk/funding

More welcome information can be found at: londonmet.ac.uk/welcome For out-of-hours psychological support, please contact:

Samaritans Telephone: 08457 90 90 90 Email: jo@samaritans.org

The Maytree Suicide Respite Centre Telephone: 020 7263 7070 maytree.org.uk

Telephone: 020 7133 4033 (Holloway) 020 7320 2380 (Moorgate) student.londonmet.ac.uk/careers

*Also contactable through our student hubs

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London Metropolitan University

SPORTS: NORTH LONDON VARSITY: THE REAL NORTH LONDON DERBY!

H

ere at London Met, we are within a very short distance of both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur football clubs.

These two North London rivals are famous the world over for having perhaps the fiercest rivalry in world football.

But just around the corner, we have our very own North London bragging rights to maintain - in the form of the North London Varsity.

North London Varsity Every year (precisely in March), the Sea of Red sports teams here at London Met take on SOAS University, and their sports teams collectively known as The Warriors.

Over the course of three highly competitive days, both universities compete in a variety of sports to claim the most points for their side.

Each game is worth a point, which can be vital at any stage over the course of the three days.

The history The inaugural North London Varsity only took place in February 2017, where the Sea of Red were victorious. While the rivalry is still

young, the bragging rights are fiercely sought after.

This past February, during a bitterly cold snowy month, saw various games postponed. The Warriors were victorious for the first time in the second annual Varsity. On two of the three nights, the most intense basketball and netball matches played in recent history graced North London.

Now with the series tied at 1-1, the Sea of Red are chomping at the bit to claim the bragging rights once again.

LONDON MET: WE NEED YOU! The support at last year’s games was amazing, but we know it can be even better. So London Met: The Sea of Red needs you!

Organised by London Met Students’ Union, all sports teams are coordinated by Sports Officer Danny Baker. And he wants to make this year better than ever before!

While dates are yet to be confirmed, make sure you pencil in March as Varsity month - and make sure you get down to the games to show your support for London Met! Better yet, why not step up and

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represent London Met? The Sea of Red is always looking for new members, and representing us at the North London Varsity is the pinnacle of the sporting season here at London Met. We’ll see you in March…

For more information regarding sports here at the Students’ Union, visit: www.londonmetsu.org.uk/ societies/sport/

By Aaron Patel