Freshers' Survival Guide by Martin Gribbon

THE FRESHERS' SURVIVAL GUIDE | 2011

THE FRESHERS' SURVIVAL GUIDE

2011

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

CONTENTS PAGE:

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Welcome - Pg 2

Your Students’ Association - Pg 5

Freshers’ Week - Pg 18

Beginning Your Degree - Pg 32

Finances - Pg 35

Wellbeing - Pg 42

Life Outside University - Pg 55

Your Degree - Pg 63

University Resources - Pg 68

Directory - Pg 74

Hello From Your Sabbaticals! This year’s four Sabbatical Officers are Matt, Mike, Philippa and Emma. The Sabbatical Officers are elected annually by the students of Edinburgh and are responsible for the Edinburgh University Students’ Association. They provide representation and support for students and work to ensure that you have the best possible experience whilst studying at the University of Edinburgh.

INTRODUCING YOUR SABBATICAL OFFICERS EUSA President: Matt McPherson Welcome To Edinburgh! I honestly believe that youʼve made one of the biggest and best decisions of your life - I know I did. Edinburgh is about far more than just getting a degree. With dozens of world-class sports teams, over 260 societies and hundreds more courses on offer, students at Edinburgh can graduate not only with a degree, but with great skills and experiences theyʼve gained from being pushed and developed in and outside the classroom; all in one of the worldʼs greatest cities. University is a fresh start - an opportunity to excel in the things you did before, and give new and exciting things a try. But it is what you make it. Freshersʼ Week is the perfect chance to make friends, join a few societies, and get settled in what will now be your new home. But if things donʼt work out this week, donʼt worry - most societies meet weekly, and opportunities at Edinburgh are available all year round. I wish you the best of luck for your exciting journey ahead. Edinburgh has so much to offer - so get as much out of this week, and the coming months and years, as you can.

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EUSA Vice President Academic Affairs: Mike Williamson Welcome to Edinburgh! You've made an excellent choice in coming to this great university in an amazing city. Right now you should be settling into your new home, making friends, and having fun, but there are some more serious things to do too. Most of you will have to decide which outside courses you will pick to study alongside your main subjects. Ever fancied learning Mandarin? Or maybe Physics is more your cup of tea. Whatever you choose, one of the advantages of studying here is the breadth of knowledge you'll gain from your outside subjects. Think about them carefully; for the next two years they'll be just as important as your core subject. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't panic, there are plenty of people here to help! Meet with your Director of Studies (DoS) or your supervisor, go to the Academic Fair, and be sure to attend the initial course meetings. That will give you all the information you need, and good opportunies to ask questions and get support. Keep an eye out for the academic societies at the Societies Fair, too. The chances are that the people on the stalls were in your shoes not so long ago, and you're bound to have some interests in common. My advice would be to use Freshers始 Week as an opportunity to get a little taste of everything, get involved and have fun.

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EUSA Vice President Services: Philippa Faulkner Welcome to Edinburgh University! I hope you ready for Freshers' Week, the start of your Uni life. Freshersʼ Week is an amazing opportunity to start exploring your studentsʼ union. You might want to chill with a coffee or lunch in the New Amphion, see a live act at the Pleasance, dance ʻtil dawn at Potterrow - the opportunities are endless! You should also have received your freshers' week What's On Guide, which is jam-packed with amazing activities from morning til late every night of your first week - you can sign up for See The City tours every day, enjoy one of our many coffee crawls around Edinburgh and celebrate at the Freshers' Ball with your new-found friends. Visit the freshers' week website at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/freshers where you can start building your personal calendar of events. Don't forget to join our Facebook group "Edinburgh University Freshers' Week 2011" as well and start chatting. Whatever your preference we have something for everyone, and whatever you choose to do I hope you have a great start to your university life and continue to enjoy your union throughout your years here in Edinburgh.

EUSA Vice President Societies and Activities: Emma Meehan Hi, and welcome to Edinburgh! One of the easiest ways to get involved and meet new people is by joining one of the 260 societies or 63 sports teams here at Edinburgh. We have societies ranging from the Harry Potter Society to Amnesty International, so there is a society to suit every taste! There's loads of ways to contribute more to your chosen societies as well, for example running for an office bearer's position e.g. President, treasurer or publicity officer. Check out the Societies and Sports Fairs this week, or find more information on the EUSA website. Also make sure you visit the Volunteering & Societies Centre in Potterrow, which has hundreds of great volunteering opportunities, from peer proofreading to conservation projects. Itʼs a great way to break out of the student bubble and get involved in the local community, as well as boosting your CV. So have fun, and I hope to see you on campus!

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Your Students’ Association Edinburgh University Students’ Association (EUSA) is your organisation. It is run by students, for students, and every student is a member. The Students’ Association runs the Union buildings, provides representation and offers other core services such as The Advice Place. We are also affiliated to the National Union of Students (NUS) and work to represent you at a local and national level. We campaign on issues that matter to students from academic issues to student welfare and funding, and look after over 260 student societies.

USE IT! The Studentsʼ Associationʼs help and advice service, The Advice Place, is located in Potterrow and Kingʼs Buildings House. The friendly and professional staff provide free, confidential and independent information and advice on all aspects of student life; the perfect one-stop shop for all student issues and queries. Find out more at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/advice.

LEAD IT! Get involved! Stand in the October by-elections for positions on the Student Council and representation committees, or even as a delegate to NUS Conferences. Or if youʼre here for more than one year, stand in the main student elections in March, where you can run for one of the Sabbatical Officer positions, elected students who take a year out to lead EUSA. (with the help of the Associationʼs staff). Find out more about getting involved in the running of EUSA at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/representation

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

With four union buildings to visit, there’s always something going on. UNION BARS, CAFES, SHOPS AND COFFEE HOUSES Potterrow Potterrow's palm tree-filled dome is a great place to eat, meet and study. With the brand new Dome Café serving fresh hot meals every lunchtime plus great coffee, sandwiches and cakes there's nowhere better to eat under the clear blue skies of Edinburgh, or to shelter from the occasional rain cloud. This unique union building is also host to the main EUSA Dome Shop, where you can buy stationary, newspapers, a quick snack and Uni merchandise at fantastic student prices. Up one floor and the Potterrow Venue becomes a huge club and live music venue, with fantastic live acts and the cheesiest party in town, the Big Cheese, every Saturday night. “One of the busiest and most unique venues for students anywhere”

Teviot House Built over 120 years ago, Teviot House is the oldest purpose built student union building in the world and the heart of student life in Edinburgh.

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Hosting a number of unique bars and cafes, Teviot is also home to an impressive formal Dining Room, huge Debating Hall, The Underground nightclub, and many excellent meeting rooms, all in one of the most stunning and imposing buildings in Edinburgh. The New Amphion, opened just last year, is a wonderful classic coffee bar, cafĂŠ and restaurant in the middle of Teviot House. The Library Bar, the most popular bar in any of our Unions, is full of incredible character and usually full of people. It is an essential part of any student night out, with great drinks at unbeatable student prices. For a more relaxed atmosphere, settle into one of the comfortable leather armchairs in Teviot Lounge; chat with friends, play cards, read, or just ponder the world passing by. A great lounge bar for more relaxed socialising or study. Head to Teviot's best kept secret, The Loft Bar, for a rooftop drink with an impressive range of cocktails. As the name suggests, this gem is tucked away at the top of Teviot's turrets. The Loft Bar offers fabulous deals to student societies for exclusive use of this great bar, so if your society wants to arrange a social meeting or a party just let us know! The Study is a new quiet study area adjacent to the New Amphion with a range of student visual arts exhibitions throughout the year. It has plenty of free-access computers and is open every day until 6pm. So if the Main Library is full, or you require a constant stream of coffee and cake to study, look no further! For big screen sports in a great atmosphere, The Sports Bar in Teviot shows all major sporting events, and has a range of pool tables and Foosball tables on the balcony.

The Pleasance Hosting one of the most famous venues in the Fringe, The Pleasance is also your own professional live performance venue plus your fabulous societies centre for the rest of the year. With rooms to suit everything from ballroom dancing to chess, and the friendliest bar in Edinburgh, The Pleasance is at the heart of student society life. The Pleasance also includes the main Pleasance Theatre and Cabaret Bar, with a full program of live theatre, music, comedy and film throughout the year, with great discounts for students. See www.eusalive.co.uk for a full listing of all live shows.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

King’s Buildings House KB Union boasts a number of fantastic bars and cafés, including the Mayfield Bar and Blackford Lounge, both serving great food until 8pm on weekdays. JCMB building at King's Buildings also has a very popular coffee outlet alongside a fantastic new study area. From 2011 there will be an all new offer in the upstairs Food Hall in KB House (name to be decided before the start of term - any ideas?) serving freshly prepared healthy hot meals every day and what we believe will become a hugely popular noodle bar. The newly refurbished KB Gym, with fantastic value membership deals for students and staff, badminton and squash courts, and busy shop, makes KB well worth a visit for a drop in lunch or a quick workout. Check out www.ed.ac.uk/ staff-students/students/shuttlebus for details and times for the free shuttle bus service provided by the university.

Other Outlets and Union Shops Visit our Union Shops in Potterow, DHT, KB and Pollock Halls to stock up on stationary, buy emergency birthday cards, grab a snack or purchase exclusive Edinburgh University merchandise, including sweatshirts, bags and sportswear. Societies can also order their personalized hoodies or t-shirts through the shop.

Quieter Areas There are many areas in Teviot that are designed for quieter socialising and study. The New Amphion and Teviot Lounge are both open all day, with The New Amphion serving great coffee and cakes ʻtil late. There are also a number of comfortable rooms off the main Library Bar and for a friendly local pub atmosphere check out the bar at The Pleasance.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Events and Nightlife You are spoilt for choice on a weekly basis as we host some fantastic free entertainment throughout the week: Every Monday, the Teviot Lounge hosts Jazz Night - an open jam jazz session where anyone can come and play along with the house musicians. You始ll hear a selection of Jazz classics, and with the lively crowd of swing dancers coming to practice after their lesson, be sure to bring your dancing shoes! Tuesdays bring you Open Mic which gives you another chance to show us your talent! Our weekly Quizzes in Teviot, KB and Pleasance are always loads of fun, so grab some mates and head down early to find a good table. Head to the Teviot Underground on a Thursday to enjoy Student Band Night where we will showcase your band. All you have to do is sign up, information is on www.eusalive.co.uk! Information is on www.eusalive.co.uk! Another chance to see the cream of local live music is Going Underground every Saturday night where the live music is followed by the best Indie set list this side of 1995! You can also enjoy our Tuesday night weekly comedy at the Pleasance Cabaret Bar where you will see an array of top calibre comedians brought to you by Comedy Central Live, and of course The Big Cheese which will set you up for years of dancing like a silly person on a Saturday night. Who needs dignity when you have Chesney Hawkes and the Baywatch theme tune...? Not only all of this, but we have regular promotions for you to enjoy in our bar and catering outlets and an array of other entertainment for you to enjoy.

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EUSA hosts some fantastic events throughout the year. Here is a glimpse of some of the things you have to look forward to in Semester One…..:

THE FUTUREHEADS Friday 30th September POTTERROW THE FUTUREHEADS need no introduction - hailing from Sunderland, the 4 piece post-punk revival band have 4 highly charted studio albums with singles like ʻHound of Loveʼ, ʻDecent Days and Nightsʼ, ʻThe Beginning of the Twistʼ and ʻHeartbeat Songʼ pleasing festival crowds nationwide. Get your tickets early for this one folks - itʼs going to be a great night of live music.

DANIEL SLOSS Friday 28th October PLEASANCE THEATRE We welcome the hilarious Daniel Sloss back to the Pleasance Theatre. Scotlandʼs half-man-halfXbox, hormone-ridden comic prodigy started stand-up aged 16, starred on ʻMichael McIntyreʼs Comedy Roadshowʼ; ʻComedy Rocksʼ; ʻ8/10 Catsʼ; ʻMock the Weekʼ and his own BBC show - all before he started shaving. Presented by Live Nation.

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EUSA & Kendal Mountain Festival Adventure Events EUSA has got together with Kendal Mountain Festival - the world’s leading mountain film and adventure event - to bring you an outstanding Autumn programme of film and talks. Here are just some of the highlights of our programme this semester. For full listings visit www.eusalive.co.uk. Paul Diffley – Climbers I’ve Shot and Some Climbers I’d Like to Shoot. Thursday 15th September 8.00pm Paul was an avid climber himself when he first decided to point a video camera at another climber in 2003. Since then, he has formed Hot Aches Productions and filmed many of the world's best climbers, making several award-winning films in the process.

Henry Iddon – Mount Damavand and the Axis of Ski-Ville Wednesday 5th October 8.00pm Documentary following the journey of Henry Iddon as he undertakes a ski-mountaineering trip to the highest volcano in Asia.

Simon Yates – Wilderness Within Wednesday 2nd November at 8.00pm In a career spanning over twenty five years Simon Yatesʼ climbing and traveling has taken him from Alaska in the west to Australia in the east, from the Canadian Arctic in the north to the tip of South America. He first came to prominence as a mountaineer in 1985 after the first ascent of the West Face of Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes and the ensuing epic descent described in Joe Simpsonʼs book ʻTouching the Voidʼ and the 2003 BAFTA wining docu-drama of the same name. To find out more about the festival visit www.mountainfest.co.uk.

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HALLOWEEN St ANDREWS THANKSGIVING Teviot hosts indesputably the best Halloween Party in Edinburgh! We also give you a reason for a knees up on St Andrew's Day with the fantastic Kilter Ceilidh and free haggis, neeps and tatties with your ticket, and this year we will celebrate Thanksgiving in the Debating Hall. All this and loads more.. Aren始t you pleased you picked Edinburgh?

HOW TO BOOK You can book tickets online at www.eusalive.co.uk, or pop in and say hello to our friendly box office team at Teviot reception. You can also give us a ring on 0131 650 4673. All events have fantastic student discounts so for a great night out without breaking the bank, you know where to go!

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Representation EUSA represents all Edinburgh’s students to the University and to external bodies such as the Council, Scottish Parliament, Westminster and voluntary bodies. So whether you want the University to provide better feedback, the Library to be open longer, the Council to ensure landlords in Edinburgh deal with students fairly or want to have your say on university funding – and any other issue you can think of – you should get involved with EUSA. That’s the only way that the Students’ Association can be sure we are representing you!

How can I get involved? Representation at Course Level The Class Rep system plays a huge part in academic representation at Edinburgh. Class Reps are elected by their classmates, and provide the vital link between students and the staff who support their learning at course level. They gather the views of the students they represent, and discuss them with members of course staff, thereby influencing the overall student experience. Through the class rep system, course staff have a direct way of spotting and resolving issues and feeding back to the student body developments and improvements. The Class Rep system is overseen by EUSA, with committed support from the university. Interested in becoming a Class Rep? For further information about the Class Rep system, please visit www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/representation/classreps.

Open Forums EUSA holds forums on specific areas of work, where any student can come along and take part. For example, if you are interested in a student welfare issue, come along to the Welfare Forum. The forums, which run throughout the year, are: ACADEMIC FORUM – dealing with all areas of your academic experience from study support to library issues and your teaching and learning experience. WELFARE FORUM – dealing with issues such as mental wellbeing, sexual health, student support while at university and anything else affecting student welfare. EXTERNAL AFFAIRS FORUM – dealing with all issues external to the university which affect students, including national issues like university funding to community relations and private accommodation.

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POSTGRADUATE FORUM – dealing with all aspects of the postgraduate experience, including PG accommodation, supervision, tutoring and tutoring support, dissertation guidance and postgraduate welfare. These forums are there to identify YOUR issues and help you to address them. They will identify and run campaigns through the year, invite University and External speakers to come and engage with Edinburgh students and seek to improve your experience at university. Go along and get involved! You can find more information about the forums, what they are doing and when they meet here www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/representation/forums.

Stand for Election! If you would be interested in getting more involved and helping run the Forums, campaigning on specific issues and representing your fellow students, you can stand for various positions in EUSAʼs elections which are held twice a year in October and March. You can stand for: SABBATICAL OFFICER POSITIONS – these are the 4 students who are elected to head the organisation and take a year-out from their studies to do so.

On Student Council –

the main representative body of EUSA – you can stand for: FORUM CONVENER POSITIONS – These are the people who chair the Forums and lead EUSAʼs work in their Forums.

Officer Positions – these are people who are interested in specific issues – for example student accommodation – and lead EUSAʼs campaigns and work in these areas. SCHOOL REPS – these are people who are elected from and to represent their School, for example the School of GeoSciences. Their focus will largely be on academic issues. UNDERGRADUATE AND POSTGRADUATE REPS – these people represent undergraduate and postgraduate students across the University on Student Council, and work in the forums.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

You can also stand for election as an Action Group Convener. EUSA has 6 Action Groups, each with their own convenors that work to ensure that the views of particular groups of students are represented in EUSA and beyond. These are:

Disability and Mental Wellbeing Action Group Ethnic Minority Action Group International Student’s Action Group LGBT Action Group Mature Student’s Action Group Women’s Action Group These groups have historically been under-represented and have had limited involvement with EUSA. The Action Group Conveners are tasked to engage these groups of students, find out what their concerns and interests are and bring their ideas to the student council. Action Group Convenors play a vital role in the representation of students. They work with the Vice President for Societies and Activities and the Welfare Forum to help give all students a voice in EUSA. Previous Action Groups have organised a Black History Month, International Womenʼs Day events, campaigned for better disabled access and provided a voice for transgendered students. For more information and to get in touch with the appropriate Action Group Convenor go to www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/representation/getinvolved/actiongroups. If you are more interested in the services that EUSA provides (the bars, shops, buildings etc.), there are also positions on the Union Committees which oversee these. These reps are YOUR representatives. Tell them what you think and want! You can find out who your reps are on the EUSA website along with a list of all the positions available. Standing for these positions is a great way of meeting new people and developing skills which will be useful to you in your University life and beyond so do consider standing. Whether or not you stand for election – remember to VOTE! Voting is via MyEd (the Edinburgh Student Portal).

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Societies and Sports Clubs Meet new people! Learn new things. Share interests. Network! Edinburgh University offers over 260 different societies and sports clubs to match every interest. Joining or forming a club or society is a great way to make friends outside your course, as well as meeting people with similar interests! Extracurricular activities look great on your CV too! Go online for more information on individual societies and clubs at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/societies, check out the Sports and Societies Fairs at Pleasance during Freshers始 Week and pick up the Societies Guide to make sure you are getting the most out of your university experience. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SPORTS CLUBS SEE PAGE 55 .

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Language Exchange Tandem is a free language-exchange program, run by EUSA, which offers a wide range of events where students can meet and practice their language skills. Attend a Speeda Lingua event, find a partner online in the Tandem Database, or attend the weekly Language Caf茅. See www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/tandem for more information. There are also free beginners始 classes in Japanese, French, Spanish, Russian, Brazilian, Portuguese, Gaelic and Arabic. Classes rotate each semester and places fill up fast so be sure to book as soon as possible! www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/campaigns/languages/free-classes.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Freshers’ Week Everything you need to know about Freshers' Week including top tips and unmissable events. Freshersʼ Week is the most exciting week of the whole year! However, it can also be a bit daunting. Just remember that everyone is in the same boat and we guarantee that the sooner you get involved and get to know people, the sooner youʼll start having a good time.

BEFORE YOU ARRIVE Familiarise Yourself Have a look online to get an idea of where the accommodation and university buildings are. Print out some maps from www.ed.ac.uk/maps.

Course Books Unless specified, donʼt buy any course books before you arrive. You will be told about any essential books in lectures, plus there are plenty of books in the library as well as photocopiers. You will be able to find many of your books second-hand at online retailers such as www.amazon.co.uk and in bookshops like Blackwells.

Any Questions? Visit EUSAʼs Freshersʼ Week website: www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/freshers or the Facebook group; search ʻEdinburgh University Freshersʼ Week 2011ʼ, or you can join us on twitter @edinunifreshers Alternatively, email us at: freshers.week@eusa.ed.ac.uk if you have any questions.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

WHAT TO BRING TO EDINBURGH Important Documents Your conditional offer from the Uni Insurance documents National Insurance number Driving Licence (if you have one) Passport and extra passport photos Any information from your funding body Bank or building society details Any accommodation documents DON’T FORGET! * Phone and Laptop chargers * Winter coat!

GETTING TO EDINBURGH Rail

Edinburgh has excellent rail links throughout the UK. All trains arrive at Waverley Station in the city centre. More information can be found on the National Rail Enquiries website, www.nationalrail.co.uk or by contacting them on 08457 48 49 50.

Air

Edinburgh International Airport is approximately a 20 minute drive from the city centre. A regular shuttle bus also operates between the airport and the city centre and tickets can be purchased for £3.50 single or £6 return. For more information visit the Airport Shuttle Bus website at www.flybybus.com or the Edinburgh Airport website at www.edinburghairport.com.

Car

The University of Edinburgh is accessible by car; however, some areas have limited parking. For information about parking on campus, see The University of Edinburgh Parking Office website at www.transport.ed.ac.uk or contact them on 0131 650 9101.

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Bus The University can be easily accessed by bus. For information about services and timetables use the following contacts: LOTHIAN REGIONAL TRANSPORT: Tel: 0131 555 6363 www.lothianbuses.co.uk NATIONAL EXPRESS: www.nationalexpress.com CITY LINK: www.citylink.co.uk

ARRIVING AT YOUR ACCOMMODATION Information will be provided by the Accommodation Service via email so please check your university email account. News relating to the Accommodation Services will also be posted on their website at www.accom.ed.ac.uk. Student Resident Assistants will be on-site at your accommodation, on arrival and throughout the term, to help you settle in and organise events to meet others, make friends, and get to know Edinburgh. If you have any questions just ask.

Things to do in the first week when you arrive at your accommodation: Read your A-Zed. Ensure you have compled your e-Induction via your MyEd account. Check, complete and return your room inventory list. This will protect your deposit! Check your insurance cover meets your requirements â&#x20AC;&#x201C; donĘźt forget that bikes are not included but can be added. www.cover4students.com

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Essential Things To Do in Freshers' Week As well as nights out and social events, there are also some official things you need to do: register, meet your Director of Studies (DoS), and attend introductory lectures for the courses you will be studying. 1.MATRICULATION Register and collect your student card Meet your Director of Studies (DoS) Complete any administration processes specified by your college.

2.ORGANISE YOUR FINANCES 3.REGISTER WITH A DOCTOR 1. Matriculation Matriculation is the process by which you are formally accepted into the University of Edinburgh. For more detailed information about the matriculation process visit the University始s website at www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/registry/matric. There are 4 things you need to do to matriculate:

Complete and return the matriculation form, received with the Registration Pack. Note if you are not funded by a UK body* or paying your fees yourself you will need to include a copy of a letter confirming who will be paying your fees. *SAAS Student Finance England, Student Finance Wales, or Student Finance Northern Ireland. Non-European Union students must also provide a copy of page(s) of your passport confirming your identity and photograph and page(s) showing the United Kingdom Entry Clearance sticker/stamp. Find out more about how to register and how to complete your matriculation form at www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/registry/matric/how-to-register-new.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Register in person. If you cannot register by post, you must attend registration on arrival at the University. Registration will take place in Adam House, 5 Chambers Street. Visit www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/ registry/matric/how-to-matriculate for details of the dates and times for each college. You can check to see if you are registered by selecting the 驶My Studies始 tab in the MyEd Student Portal www.myed.ed.ac.uk. Your registration date will appear on your record within 24 hours of receipt of your registration form. Please note, however, that any other amendments to your student record from the form may take longer to appear.

COLLECT YOUR STUDENT CARD Students living in University Accommodation. All pre-printed cards will be available on arrival at your hall or house as part of your Student Welcome Pack. Students NOT living in University Accommodation. New students not living in university accommodation should collect their student card from Adam House, Chambers Street. Staff will be on hand from Monday 12th September to issue cards.

MEET YOUR DIRECTOR OF STUDIES (DOS) To complete the matriculation process, you must also arrange to meet your DoS to agree your course selection and enrol on the courses. You will be sent information before you arrive telling you who your DoS is and how to contact them. * Find out more about meeting your DoS and what they do in Beginning your Degree later on in this guide.

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COMPLETE ANY ADMINISTRATION PROCESSES SPECIFIED BY YOUR COLLEGE Visit the college website and contact your college for further details: COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND VETERINARY MEDICINE: www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/medicine-vet-medicine COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING: www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/science-engineering COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCE: www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/humanities-soc-sci/humanities-soc-sci

2. Organise Your Finances Many students are eligible for a student loan. There are also a number of different grants or bursaries available that you may be eligible to apply for. For more information see the finance section in this guide.

3. Register With A Doctor We encourage new students to Edinburgh to register with a doctor as soon as possible after you arrive â&#x20AC;&#x201C; do not wait until you are ill! For more information see the Wellbeing section on page 42.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Things to do in Freshers' Week (RECOMMENDED)

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rs EUSA ' Pass Diary NUS Extra Card

With so much going on, it’s impossible to get involved in everything. However, we would recommend the following… Pick something new to do every day from your EUSA What's On Guide! Go to the University’s Welcome Ceremony

This is the official Freshers Week Opening with welcome from the Principal and the President of your Studentsʼ Association (EUSA). Itʼs on Monday 12th September at Playfair Library Hall, Old College at 2pm.

Attend the Academic Fair

Explore your other course options at the Academic Fair in Appleton Tower on Tuesday 13th.

Visit the Societies and Sports Fairs

Join a club or society! There are so many thing you can get involved in, whatever your interests! Plus, itʼs a great way to meet people.

Tour the Campus

Get to know your way around and become acquainted with the union buildings, lecture theatres, library, cafés and shops around the University and George Square! Youʼll find a schedule for these tours in the Freshersʼ Week Whatʼs On Guide on online.

Attend a guided tour of the Central Library

You will need to understand how to use the library sooner or later. Save yourself the anxiety and let the experts explain the system long before your essays are due! Details are online at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/freshers.

Attend a Study Skills session

Studying at university can be quite different to anything youʼve experienced before. These sessions provide information and tips as well as allowing you to ask any questions. Contact your school for details.

Go on a ‘See the City’ trip

A great way to see the sights and find out whatʼs on offer in the city you will be living in for the next few years. Spaces are limited so get your ticket in advance from the EUSA office in Potterrow studentsʼ union (one per person). Tours are free with a Freshersʼ Week Pass (see page 27). Without a pass, ʻSee the Cityʼ tours cost £5.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Getting Around Edinburgh BY BUS MAIN STUDENT BUS ROUTES Central Campus (Buccleuch Street) to King’s Buildings, Bus Nos. 41 & 42

A free bus service operates during term-time between Central campus and Kingʼs Buildings campus. You can find the timetable for this free shuttle bus here www.ed.ac.uk/staff-students/students/shuttlebus.

Marchmont Road to King’s Buildings, Bus No. 24 Pollock Halls of Residence (Dalkeith Road) to Princes Street, Bus Nos. 2, 14, 30 & 33 These routes are operated by Lothian Buses. Timetables and routes are available from the EUSA office, in The Potterrow studentsʼ union, or Lothian travel shops in the city. Check out www.lothianbuses.co.uk for details of their Student Ridacard. If you plan on using the bus frequently this will make travel much cheaper.

BY TAXI MAIN TAXI RANKS Southside Newington, Dalkeith Road, Nicolson Street, Clerk Street and South Clerk Street

West End Shandwick Place, Haymarket, Tollcross and Lothian Road

Marchmont Melville Drive and Marchmont Road

Central Areas Potterrow, Grassmarket, Cowgate, George IV Bridge, Royal Mile, South Bridge and North Bridge

New Town Outside Waverley Station, Princes Street, George Street, Queen Street, Waterloo Place and St. Andrews Square

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Freshers’ Week Help & Advice Freshers’ Week Volunteers Freshersʼ Week Volunteers are available throughout the week to assist with any queries or problems you may have, big or small. If you have any questions, get lost or simply want information on what to do next look out for the Freshersʼ Week Volunteers in the red and orange t-shirts.

The Advice Place The Potterrow Advice Place will be open from 10.00am to 5.00pm on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th September, and will be open until 7pm during the rest of Freshers Week Feel free to pop in with any questions. To find out more about The Advice Place service look on the EUSA website at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/advice.

Moosa Dollars Earn Moosa Dollars by entertaining Freshersʼ Volunteers. Use your dollars at the Freshersʼ Week auction to win some amazing goodies including TVs, DVD players, kitchen necessities, sweet treats and mystery prizes. See the Freshersʼ Whatʼs On Guide for more information about the auction.

Need information at night? ʻNightlineʼ is the confidential support and information service run especially for students in Edinburgh throughout term. Call Nightline between 8pm and 8am on 0131 557 4444 to find out about events, get a taxi number, advice on how to register with a doctor, or just for a chat. Find out more at www.ednightline.com.

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Computer Information Services The Information Servicesʼ Student Support Team will help you get the most out of the computing resources at Edinburgh University. For information on getting started, location of computer labs, opening times and much, much more visit www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/information-services.

Staying Safe Walking home at night might seem like a good idea when youʼre tipsy but plan ahead and walk home in a group or get a taxi. If you have any problems or concerns about getting home at night please contact a staff member or a Freshersʼ Week Volunteer for advice or assistance, they will be more than happy to help.

Campus Tours Donʼt wait until half way through the first semester to finally know where youʼre going! Take a campus tour and figure it all out in the first week. Check out the Freshersʼ Week Whatʼs On Guide for details on when these are on and where they are leaving from.

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Freshers’ Week Pass - £35 Skip the long queues to buy tickets and get free entry into all the live entertainment events, big party nights, ceilidhs, films, comedy, club nights and the Freshers’ Ball with the Freshers’ Week Pass! How much does it cost? The Freshersʼ Week Pass costs just £35 for free entry to every event throughout the week, saving over £80. It also saves you time queuing up to buy tickets!

Look After Your Pass! Unfortunately, passes cannot be replaced if lost and you wonʼt be able to gain free access into the evening events. Please also be aware that passes that have been altered will not be accepted.

Entry for Freshers’ Week Pass Holders A Freshersʼ Week Pass is not proof of age. If you want to buy or drink alcohol at union events you will need suitable photographic ID such as a driving licence,mpassport or anything bearing a PASS logo. To find out more about the PASS scheme visit www.pass-scheme.org.uk. A Freshers’ Week Pass does not guarantee entry to an event if the venue is at maximum capacity. Please be aware of this and arrive early to events to avoid disappointment.

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Entry for Students Without a Freshers’ Week Pass Individuals without a Freshersʼ Week Pass will be able to gain entry to events; however, there will be a charge per event. The Freshersʼ Week Pass is designed to save you money if you wish to attend more than two or three events during the week and is recommended. The union buildings, when there are no specific events running, will still be open to everyone for the duration of Freshersʼ Week.

Over 21’s Night - Wednesday 14th September For this night only, entry to Potterrow studentsʼ union for the Postgrad and mature studentsʼ night will be for over 21ʼs only. For entry to this free event, please provide your Edinburgh University Matric Card and valid proof of age (over 21). A Freshersʼ Week Pass will not be required to gain entry to this event.

See the City Tours - free with your Freshers’ Pass Due to the limited number of spaces on our ʻSee The Cityʼ trips we advise you drop in to any of our box offices as early as possible on the day of the tour (Teviot box office is open at 9am, all others open at 10am) and book your ticket in advance. Tickets can only be booked on the day of the tour. If you are not using your ticket, please do return it and let someone else on the tour. ʻSee The Cityʼ trips are free with a Freshersʼ Week Pass, without a pass see the city trips cost £5. Only one ticket will be given in advance per person.

For all your Freshers’ Week Info Visit the Freshersʼ Week website at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/freshers, the Freshersʼ Week Facebook group, or read EUSAʼs Freshersʼ Whatʼs On Guide. Advice and information is also available at The Advice Place, both at the Potterrow studentsʼ union and Kingʼs Buildings House studentsʼ union or online at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/advice. Alternatively, pop in to see your Sabbaticals in their office at Potterrow studentsʼ union, Bristo Square.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Freshers' Week Checklist Register -

Check the 驶Studies始 tab in your MyEd portal to make sure you have registered. Buy your Freshers' Pass. Get your EUSA Diary from any EUSA retail outlet. Buy your NUS Extra card.

DoS -

Meet your Director of Studies (DoS) to select your courses.

Tuition Fees -

If you are liable to pay some or all of your fees and have not made arrangements in advance, go to Adam House, Chambers Street, to do so.

Student Card -

If you are not in university accommodation, collect your student card from Adam House, Chambers Street.

Doctor -

Police -

Bank -

Open a UK bank account (international students) and set up internet banking to keep track of your money.

Computing account -

Activate your university computing account at www.ease.ed.ac.uk/complabs.

Insurance -

If you are not in university accommodation, take out personal contents insurance for your belongings.

TV Licence -

Buy a TV licence if you own a TV.

Library -

Visit the Library or take a virtual tour.

Campus Tour -

Go on a campus tour or a 驶See the City始 tour. Attend the Societies and Sports Fairs, and the Academic Fair.

College Induction -

Attend your college induction meeting or event.

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EMILY REDUCED R THE COST T of everything for Uni, from from her laptop to a new mobile, her course books, a winter coat and an alarm clock

can you af afford ffford not to? Get kitted out just like Emilyâ&#x20AC;Śvisit nus.or nus.org.uk g.uk to see how you can save

All details correct correct at time of printing: July 2011

Beginning Your Degree The transition from school to university can be daunting; having to juggle finances, organise studies, attend lectures and tutorials, as well as have a social life, all in the first few weeks! This section will provide information to help make this time as easy as possible. MATRICULATION You need to register and meet with your DoS to confirm your course choices before you can be fully matriculated (you need to do this in the first week). For more information see www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/registry/matric.

CHOOSING OUTSIDE COURSES Although you will have been accepted to study one particular degree, most undergraduate students are given the opportunity to select one or two 驶outside courses始. 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. Find out about each course at the Academic Fair taking place during Freshers始 Week. Once you are happy with your selection, you will meet with your Director of Studies (DoS) who will 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.

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LEARNING AND TEACHING Depending on your programme of study you can expect the following types of classes throughout your degree:

Lectures (50 mins)

Take notes and remember to jot down any questions to ask at the end or in a tutorial. Some lecturers will allow you to use dictaphones but please ask permission.

Tutorials (50 mins)

Compulsory interactive sessions held weekly or fortnightly. Tutorial group sizes have usually between 8 and 15 students.

Science Practicals (Up to 3 hrs)

Science students will be required to attend compulsory practicals. These sessions put into action the material learnt in lectures. Other course components could include lab reports and assessed coursework.

Other

Group work, placements and presentations are also components of some courses.

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PEOPLE Director of Studies (DoS) Every new student is allocated a Director of Studies (DoS), typically a member of teaching staff from your main subject area, who provides you with academic guidance. Your DoS acts as your first point of contact if you have any concerns or problems with your programme. They can also advise on subject choices. In the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Student Support Officers will also be available to discuss issues regarding course choices and any other problems.

Tutors Tutors can help if you have queries about your course or assessments. They are responsible for setting your tutorial program and marking essays.

Course Organisers Course Organisers are responsible for overseeing the structure and organisation of each course and ensuring it is delivered to students appropriately. While you may be introduced to the organisers at the beginning of each semester, you may otherwise have few direct dealings. You may, however, be referred to them should you have any issues that cannot be dealt with by your DoS or tutors.

Class Representatives Class Reps are students who act as the link between students and staff at a course and departmental level, ensuring that the University is continually engaging with students to improve teaching, learning, assessment, and academic service. Class Reps are chosen at the beginning of the year and bring up any issues of concern or suggestions for improvement. More information can be found at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/representation/classreps.

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Finances With an estimated cost of over 拢6,500 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 socialising. The funding you receive, and the amount of fees you are required to pay, vary depending on what country you are from and where you have been a resident before starting your course.

Students from Scotland Tuition Fees For Scottish students始 studying for their first degree tuition fees are paid for by the Scottish Government. Apply for a fee assessment by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) before starting university www.saas.gov.uk. SAAS online applications must be submitted every year of your studies. Online application opens in April; to ensure your funds are ready for the next academic year apply no later than 30th June.

Student Loans Student Loans are the main source of living cost support for UK undergraduate students. Loans are means tested on your parent始s or partner始s income. You should have been notified by SAAS of the level of support you will receive. The loan will be paid monthly directly into your bank account.

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Bursaries The Young Students’ Bursary The non-repayable Young Studentsʼ Bursary (YSB) is incomeassessed and helps students under 25 with living costs.

The Independent Students’ Bursary The Independent Studentsʼ Bursary (ISB) is available for students who qualify to be regarded as independent from their parents. Any partnerʼs income is taken into account for their student loan assessment. The bursary is dependent on your household income and reduces the amount of student loan you need to take out.

NHS Bursaries The Scottish Government Health Directorate Bursary is awarded to students studying for Allied Health Professions and is income-assessed.

Nursing and Midwifery Bursary Nursing and midwifery students are eligible for the full bursary rate in years one to three and a 75% bursary for year four. Check the SAAS website for more information on all of these bursaries www.saas.gov.uk.

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 eligible for: CHILD TAX CREDITS LONE PARENTS’ GRANT CHILDCARE FUNDS

DEPENDENTS’ GRANT

from SAAS (income assessed) (awarded at the discretion of the University) - ask in The Advice Place for application details. for students with spouses on a low income, whether or not they have children.

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Students from England, Northern Ireland and Wales Tuition Fees

Students from England, Northern Ireland and Wales pay a flat-rate tuition fee for each year of their programme. Most students can apply for a repayable tuition fee loan to cover this cost.

Maintenance Loan

Paid into your bank account in three instalments, at the start of each semester, this loan is to help with your accommodation and other living costs. The amount of loan depends on: your household income, where you live while you study, and whether you are in the final year of your course.

Maintenance Grants MAINTENANCE GRANT This non-repayable income-assessed grant can be applied for at the same time as your Student Loan, to help with accommodation and other living costs. (Learning Assembly Grant for Welsh students). SPECIAL SUPPORT GRANT The Special Support Grant provides a non-repayable sum depending on household income. If you receive the Special Support Grant you will not be eligible to receive the Maintenance Grant as well, however, you will be able to apply for the Maintenance Loan. 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. There are exceptions, however, so please contact Student Finance for advice. www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/ StudentFinance.

Students with Children

Full-time students with children may qualify for extra financial help in addition to the standard student finance package. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for: A CHILDCARE GRANT THE PARENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; LEARNING ALLOWANCE

CHILD TAX CREDITS

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(to help with childcare costs) (to help towards the cost of registered or approved childcare) Help through the Higher Education Childcare fund or application to the University Discretionary funds

Disabled Students Allowance for all UK students The Disabled Students始 Allowance is a non-income assessed grant to help meet the extra course costs students can face as a result of a disability, mental health condition or specific learning difficulty. Full-time, part-time and postgraduate students can apply for Disabled Students始 Allowances. Disabled Students始 Allowances can help with: SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT NEEDED FOR STUDYING, COMPUTER SOFTWARE FOR E.G. A NON-MEDICAL HELPER SUCH AS A NOTE-TAKER OR READER. TRAVEL COSTS. OTHER COSTS E.G. TAPES OR BRAILLE PAPER. Students who think they may be eligible should contact Student Disability Service to apply www.ed.ac.uk/disability-office.

EU Students Tuition Fees Students from the rest of the EU, studying in Scotland, are currently entitled to have their tuition fees paid for by SAAS.

Student Loans Certain EU nationals, for example those who have been ordinarily resident in the UK for three years prior to starting university, and are resident in Scotland by the first day of their first academic year, may be entitled to apply for additional student support from the SAAS such as a Student Loan. Visit the SAAS website at www.saas.gov.uk for more information.

International Students 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. Please note that the student funding system is subject to change. For up to date information, or if you have any questions, contact The Advice Place www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/advice.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Additional sources of funding Bursaries For details of scholarships and bursaries you may be eligible for, visit the University始s Scholarships and Student Funding Services webpage at www.scholarships.ed.ac.uk/bursaries.

Discretionary and Childcare Funds The Discretionary Funds 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 such as any support from their funding body and their bank overdraft. EU and international students are not eligible for the Discretionary Fund but may apply to the Common Bursaries Fund, which is a much smaller fund offering smaller awards. UK students with children can apply to the Childcare Fund for assistance with the cost of formal registered childcare. They are expected to have taken out their full entitlement to loans and grants available from their funding body before applying. There is one application form to apply for any of these Discretionary, Common Bursaries and Childcare Funds. Application forms can be collected from The Advice Place.

EUSA Emergency Small Loan Scheme Immediate short-term interest free loans may be available to Home, EU and International students in acute financial need. The fund is limited and, before applying, students are normally expected to have approached their bank for assistance. Students should contact The Advice Place for full details.

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, such as a free Young Persons始 Rail Pass.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Budgeting Tips Keep track of your money Use online banking Be aware of your monthly income and expenses Limit yourself to a weekly allowance www.studentcalculator.org.uk will calculate this for you! Have a contingency fund for textbooks, nights out and shopping sprees Check out The Advice Place Money Doctors webpage for the latest money saving tips or pop in and speak to an adviser about working out a budget www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/advice/funding-and-money/advicemoneydoctors.

Open a student bank account Shop around for a good starter deal and overdraft facility; watch the small print for fines and charges! 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. To open a student account you may need to produce the following: A copy of your student loan form. Proof of your student status e.g. your UCAS letter. Identification, e.g. passport or full driving licence. Proof of term-time or home address.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

International Students International students living in university accommodation will have a ʻProof of addressʼ letter on collection of keys, downloadable from your MyEd page, which can be used when opening a bank account. International students not staying in university accommodation can obtain a ʻProof of addressʼ letter from the International Office, 57 George Square. These letters will be accepted at certain banks which have an agreed arrangement with the International Office. For more information on international student banking visit the International Office website at www.international.ed.ac.uk/finances/bank_account.

Other useful tips TRAVEL: DISCOUNTS: BOOKS: INSURANCE:

Get a Young Persons Railcard and book tickets for trains, planes and buses well in advance. Take advantage of student discounts and offers at book shops, clothes shops and some cafés and restaurants. Try buying textbooks second-hand or check out charity shops for some cheap reads. Insure your possessions (either as a separate policy or as part of your parentsʼ home insurance).

Get Cashback Online You can get great deals online including cashback for items you buy, vouchers and freebies. Remember to use comparison sites to make sure youʼre getting the best deal on shopping, nights out, electronics, utilities, broadband and insurance. Check out the following websites for deals, tips and more! www.quidco.com www.moneysavingexpert.com www.moneysupermarket.com www.studentbeans.com

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Wellbeing Doctors Register with the University Health Centre If you live within the catchment area go to one of the registration sessions for the University Health Centre during Freshers始 Week or contact them to make an appointment on 0131 650 2777. Remember to take some photo ID. You will be asked to complete two forms and have a short medical assessment. The Health Centre operates on an appointment system but also has drop in clinic every morning between 9am to 10am.

Other Health Centres If you aren始t eligible to register at the University Health Centre, visit www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk to find your nearest local surgery. Should you wish to register, you will be required to complete paperwork and have a medical assessment. Knowing the details of your previous doctor is also useful but not essential.

Out of Hours If you need to speak with a Health Professional when your GP surgery is closed, NHS24 can be contacted on 08454 242424.

Prescriptions From this year prescriptions in Scotland are free of charge.

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Dentists and Opticians Dentist Surgery Your nearest dental surgery can be located by contacting the City of Edinburgh Council始s Healthcare department on 0131 537 8424 or by consulting www.nhs24.com. Try to register as an NHS patient as it is much cheaper than paying for private treatment. Please be aware, however, that there may be a waiting list.

Opticians If your optician at home was part of a chain, there will most likely to be a branch in Edinburgh. Otherwise, ask around for a recommendation. Eye tests are free in Scotland so there is no excuse for not having your eyes checked on a regular basis. Help with health-related costs, such as dental treatment and glasses or contact lenses, may be available if you are on a low income. Apply using a HC1 form, available from The Advice Place www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/advice or most pharmacies.

Hospitals Should you require hospital treatment, the following services are available:

Accident and Emergency The Royal Infirmary 51 Little France Crescent, Old Dalkeith Road Tel: 0131 536 1000 The Royal Infirmary operates a 24-hour A&E department and is located in Little France. Western General Hospital Crewe Road South Tel: 0131 537 1000 The Western General hospital has a nurse-led Minor Injuries Clinic, open from 9am to 9pm every day of the year. Clinic staff treat adults and children over 1 years old for a wide range of injuries including: minor cuts and burns, infections and stings, suspected sprains and small bone breaks.

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GUM Clinic 1st Floor, Lauriston Building Lauriston Place Tel: 0131 536 2103 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. Contact the clinic between the hours 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Giving Blood With 1,000 donations needed every day to meet the needs of Scotland始s patients, giving blood is extremely worthwhile. Most people who are over 17 and in general good health can donate and the process is extremely easy. You can donate at the blood donation centre on Lauriston Place. Once you have donated blood you must wait at least 16 weeks before giving blood again. This means you can donate up to three times a year; a small undertaking which could save lives. Visit www.scotblood.co.uk for further information.

Student Health Problems Over the course of your studies you始re bound to have a cold every now and again and for this we recommend rest and plenty of fluids. Occasionally however, some students can pick up more serious illnesses. We始ve detailed a few of them below so you will recognise the symptoms if you develop them.

Meningitis Symptoms include: fever, headache, stiff neck, aversion to bright lights, drowsiness and a rash that does not fade when pressure is applied. Do not wait for a rash to develop as this may not appear with meningitis. Seek help as soon as you become concerned. For more information see www.meningitis-trust.org or call their helpline on 0800 028 18 28.

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Mumps Symptoms include: fever, headache and swollen glands in front of the ears. Mumps is highly contagious and there is no specific treatment but your doctor will advise on the best way to help you recover.

Glandular Fever Symptoms include: fever, headache, sore throat, swollen tonsils and swollen glands in the armpits and groin. It is contagious, passed on in saliva, and from coughs and sneezes. There is no treatment, just ways to help with the symptoms. See your doctor for a check-up, blood test, and throat swab. Be sure to take lots of rest.

Mental Health One in four people will experience some mental health problem at some time in their life. Stress and anxiety are particularly prevalent amongst students, especially around exams and assessment time. However, by taking simple steps you can help to prevent feeling unreasonably anxious. Remember to: MAKE TIME TO SOCIALISE AND TAKE A BREAK FROM STUDYING. A good balance between working and relaxing is crucial for a good student experience. GET SOME SLEEP. Being over-tired is strongly associated with stress and other mental health issues. IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW WHERE TO TURN TO FOR HELP AND ADVICE. Keep in touch with old friends and family to let them know how you始re getting on at University. If you feel you need some extra support there are lots of organisations both on and off campus that you can contact.

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Helpful Contacts On Campus STUDENT COUNSELLING SERVICE You may find it helpful to consult a professional counsellor to support you in working through your difficulties. There are a wide range of self-help resources available on the Counselling Service始s website. The service is free to all University of Edinburgh students. www.student-counselling.ed.ac.uk

NIGHTLINE Need to talk? Nightline is run by trained volunteers who offer an anonymous, confidential and sympathetic ear. They are available from 8pm to 8am daily. Tel: 0131 557 4444 email: www.ednightline.com

STUDENT DISABILITY SERVICE Offers mental health mentoring and advice on how to combine university with mental health issues. Tel: 0131 650 6828 www.ed.ac.uk/disability-office

UNIVERSITY HEALTH CENTRE Provides appointments and emergency help contacts for students who feel they are experiencing a serious mental health issue. Tel: 0131 650 6828 www.health-service.ed.ac.uk

THE CHAPLAINCY Offers support and pastoral care for all students regardless of faith. www.chaplaincy.ed.ac.uk

THE ADVICE PLACE Contact The Advice Place for more information and other sources of support for yourself or someone you know. www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/advice

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Off- Campus NATIONAL SELF-HARM NETWORK NSHN offers an anonymous, supportive and non-judgmental support forum, as well as an email and telephone helpline. Tel: 0800 622 6000 7pm-11pm Thurs-Sat, 6.30pm – 10.30pm Sun. E-mail: support@nshn.co.uk www.nshn.co.uk DEPRESSION ALLIANCE SCOTLAND The ʻLook ok, feel crap?ʼ campaign provides information and support as well as life skills courses. Tel: 0845 123 23 20 / 0131 467 3050 Email: ask@lookokfeelcrap.org www.lookokfeelcrap.org B-EAT Provides information, help and support for people affected by eating disorders. Tel: 0845 634 1414 www.b-eat.co.uk NHS 24 Offers 24/7 medical information for emergencies and for general mental wellbeing. Tel: 0845 024 024 www.nhs24.com EDSPACE Offers further information about other support services available in Edinburgh. www.edspace.org.uk

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Sexual Health Whether you are having no sex, lots of sex, are with many partners or just the one; your sex life and your sexual health is important to your wellbeing. Safe Sex It is important to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancy. By always using a condom or femidom you will protect yourself against most STIs. Edinburgh operates a free condom service called the c:card scheme. To sign up for a c:card, pop into The Advice Place. You will need to provide your date of birth and the first part of your postcode. Once you have received your card, collect your free condoms/ femidoms /dental dams from any c:card point across the city. Find out more about the scheme at www.ccard.org.uk. Regular STI check-ups are advisable if you have ever had sex without a condom. Many STIs such as Chlamydia and HIV are initially symptomless. You should encourage your partner to get checked for STIs. The GUM (genito-urinary medicine) clinic at Lauriston Place can confidentially test you for all STIs. You do not have to be referred to the clinic by a doctor just phone 0131 536 2103 for an appointment or advice. The clinic is open between 9.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 16.30 Monday to Friday. If you have symptoms or you feel that the problem is urgent and can始t wait, you can go the walk-in clinic at Lauriston place. The walk-in clinic is open between 8.30am and 10.00am Mondays to Fridays. When you arrive at the clinic the receptionist will give you an approximate time of being seen, which will normally be the same day.

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Emergency contraception If your contraception fails, you can get emergency contraception (also called the morning after pill) from your GP or a pharmacy, including the University Health centre at 6 Bristo Square if you are registered with them. There is no charge when getting the morning after pill from a doctors but there will be a charge from a pharmacy, check with your local pharmacy for details. Alternatively you can pick it up from other Edinburgh clinics such as the Lauriston Place GUM clinic (call 0131 536 2103), Caledonia Youth (0131 229 3596) and Dean Terrace Family Planning Clinic (0131 332 7941). If you require emergency contraception outwith clinic times you can visit Ward 210, Royal Infirmary, Little France (call 0131 536 1000). Note that you need to take the pill within 72 hours of having unprotected sex.

Pregnancy Should you become pregnant during your studies, seek information, guidance and support to help you make the best possible decisions for you. The Dean Terrace Family Planning Clinic can give counselling and support.

Helpful Contacts CALEDONIA YOUTH Tel: 0131 229 3596 www.caledoniayouth.org SEXUAL HEALTH SCOTLAND www.sexualhealthscotland.co.uk GUM CLINIC Tel: 0131 536 2103 www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk/ourservices/gum/gum.asp DEAN TERRACE FAMILY PLANNING CLINIC Tel: 0131 332 7841 www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk/emergencies/familyplanning.asp

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Alcohol Current guidelines recommend that the sensible drinking levels of alcohol for men and women are 20 units and 14 units respectively. The number of units in a drink depends on what youʼre drinking, how strong it is and the amount. However, one unit roughly equates to the following: 1 unit = Half a pint of beer, lager or cider Small glass of wine Measure of spirit

Tips for responsible drinking Know your limits! Know your, and your friends, drink tolerance level; donʼt leave your friends when they need you or you need them. Avoid confrontation. Walk away if youʼre being hassled or provoked. Get home safely. You are more vulnerable after a few drinks. To avoid being a victim of crime get a licensed taxi or walk home with a group of friends. Eat! Donʼt drink on an empty stomach; you can guarantee a nasty hangover the next day. Recover. After an episode of heavy drinking, give your body a break. Itʼs advisable not to drink alcohol again for at least 48 hours to allow your body to recover.

Helping a drunk friend Do not leave them to go home alone. Ensure that they drink plenty of water. When they go to bed make sure they lie on their side, prop pillows behind them to prevent them from turning over; if they lie on their back and are sick they may choke and the results may be fatal.

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Beware of Alcohol Poisoning If someone is displaying the following signs of alcohol poisoning seek medical attention immediately. Shortness of breath. Clammy or blue-tinge to their skin. Does not wake up after vomiting. Cannot be woken.

Spiked Drinks The two most common drugs used to spike drinks are Rohypnol and GHB. They are colourless and odourless, and cause dizziness, confusion and memory loss.

Tips to prevent drink spiking Think before accepting a drink from anyone; make sure you see it either poured or opened. Never leave a drink unattended. If your drink looks like it has moved, topped up or tastes strange, abandon it. Get your own! Do not share or exchange drinks. Be aware of the signs. If you are feeling light headed, excessively drunk, or ill after only a few drinks, let someone know and get to a safe place. Drinks do not have to be alcoholic to be spiked. Safety in numbers. Avoid going to a pub or club alone.

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Drugs It is an offence to possess or supply drugs. It is important to be aware of the risks and long-term effects: CANNABIS is the most commonly used drug by students. Whilst it can be relaxing, long-term effects can include paranoia, depression and brain damage. COCAINE is a stimulant that temporarily speeds up the processes of the mind and body. It is highly addictive in all forms and can cause heart attacks and mental health problems as well as making regular users anxious and paranoid. ECSTASY effects can last between three to six hours. Physical side effects can include dilated pupils, raised body temperature and an increased heartbeat. 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, paranoia and depression. SPEED is an amphetamine, a stimulant that keeps people alert and awake. Effects can last up to six hours but the come-down can last for two days, causing irritation and depression. Speed can lead to anxiety, depression, irritability and aggression as well as mental illness such as psychosis and paranoid feelings.

Emergencies If you're worried, anxious, need information or advice call the National Drugs Helpline on 0800 77 66 00 any time of the day or night. The Helpline is run by trained counsellors available to anyone with a question on drugs or drug-related issues. Calls are free and confidential. Knowing what to do in an emergency can save a friend's life. Dial 999 if you're in any doubt about their condition. Stay calm, tell them what symptoms your friend is suffering from and, if you know, what drugs they've taken. For more info see www.knowthescore.info/get_help/first_aid.

Help and Support CREW 2000 An Edinburgh-based organisation who provide information, advice and, if necessary, support about drugs. www.crew2000.org.uk For information about other support groups in Edinburgh, contact The Advice Place. TALK TO FRANK Has a comprehensive online database and helpline, offering support and information young people concerned about their or other始s drug use. Tel: 0800 77 66 00 www.talktofrank.com

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Personal Safety It is always wise to follow some basic guidelines to help you stay safe in the city and at home. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave personal items or bags unattended and try not to carry large sums of money with you. Never keep your PIN number with your bank or credit cards. Contact your bank immediately to cancel your debit or credit cards if stolen or lost. Try to avoid walking home alone at night. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be tempted to take short cuts across waste ground, through parks or dark alleys at night and consider carrying a personal attack alarm. If you think someone is following you, check by crossing the street. If you are still worried, find a crowded area and call he police.

Worst-case scenario If someone threatens you, shout and scream for help and set off your personal attack alarm if you have one. Try to remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible. You have every right to defend yourself; however, it is illegal to carry an offensive weapon and, you should never prioritise your possessions over your own safety. For further advice see www.crimestoppers-uk.org/ crime-prevention/helping-prevent-crime/personal-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 are able, you could help the police catch your attacker: Take the names and addresses of any witnesses. Try to remember exactly what the attacker looked like. If a car was involved, try to note the colour, model and registration number.

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You can report attacks or assaults by going directly to any police station, there will be specially trained staff there to support and talk to you. You do not need to go to the police station to report an assault or any other crime however, you can be interviewed in your own home if you wish or, in another location of your choosing. Lothian and Borders police operate a remote reporting scheme and there are many organisations throughout the city that can help you report a crime to the police via this method, The Advice Place is one of the organisations that participate in this scheme. For further information and for a list of other organisations, check out www.lbp.police.uk/takecontrol.

Help and Support VICTIM SUPPORT Victim Support Scotland is an organisation that offers information, emotional support and practical guidance for those affected by a crime. Call the number below to speak to someone at the Edinburgh centre. Tel: 0131 668 2556 www.victimsupportsco.org.uk/"www.victimsupportsco.org.uk EDINBURGH WOMEN’S RAPE & SEXUAL ABUSE CENTRE If you have been raped you can also contact the Edinburgh Womenʼs Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre. They can offer free and confidential support, including accompanying you to the police station if you wish. If you are a male victim you can also contact The Rape Crisis Centre. Tel: 0131 558 1612 www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk 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.

Other areas of safety to consider There are other issues you should think about with regards to personal safety and being aware of issues such as protecting your drinks when out socialising as well as avoiding scams. You can find out more about these on The Advice Place website in the Words of Wisdom section www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/advice/words-of-wisdom.

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Life Outside University Gyms and Sports Facilities We have an outstanding range of sports facilities here at the University of Edinburgh. Our Centre for Sport and Exercise provides activities at both recreational and competitive levels, which are available at a number of sites in the city. HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, recently opened a £4.8m extension of the Pleasance Sports Complex to provide even more high quality gym and activity space for you to enjoy. This offers an array of brand new facilities including the stunning and state-of-the-art studio (exercise and dance classes), ʻMyGymʼ (body conditioning) and underground vaults (bench free weights) as well as a dedicated rowing gym named in honour of Olympic great Katherine Grainger and a new indoor studio cycling space called ʻVelocityʼ. Adding to its already high level service 100-station CV gym with personal TV screens, body circuit gym, fixed weights gym, free weights gym, two sports halls, two dance studios, four squash courts and dedicated facilities for boxing, archery, rifle shooting, climbing and bouldering. Recently rated ʻbest facility weʼve ever hadʼ by All Blacks Rugby Trainer in November 2010, the Centre offers 50 exercise classes each week and a range of workshops including Zumba and Vew-do class, the Kurki Retail Shop and a personal training service. There is also a 25m six lane swimming pool just next door in the St. Leonardʼs Land building, off Holyrood Road.

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Through the Centre for Sport and Exercise (CSE) Edinburgh students also have access to the internationally renowned FASIC sports injury centre and Scotlandʼs National Hockey Academy at Peffermill, which has two international standard Astroturf pitches, artificial tennis courts and cricket nets, natural turf pitches and a golf practice area. Firbush, 80 miles north of Edinburgh, is the CSEʼs residential centre for the outdoors. Situated in a magnificent location on Loch Tay, it supports both summer water sports and extensive winter activities. Check out the website for more details, exercise classes and pool timetables and membership (www.sport.ed.ac.uk).

Membership The Centre for Sports and Exercise (CSE) offers a great membership rate for students. Itʼs easy to join online at www.sport.ed.ac.uk or just show your university (matric) card at the CSE Pleasance reception, fill out a form, make the payment and youʼre ready to go!

Kings Buildings House Gym EUSA offers a comprehensive range of sports and leisure facilities at King's Buildings House for Edinburgh University students and staff, and for members of the local community. 2011 - 2012 Memberships are now available with students prices starting at just £2 per month. Facilities and services include the gym, squash/racketball courts, badminton, exercise and relaxation classes, and sports equipment sales and hire. You can also pop into the Mayfield bar or Blackford Lounge for a well-earned, post-workout snack, meal or drink! KING'S BUILDINGS HOUSE, Gate 2, West Mains Road Edinburgh EH9 3JF Tel: 0131 650 5772 Fax: 0131 650 6720

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Get involved in Sport Sports Clubs Edinburgh University Sports Union (EUSU) is the student-run body responsible for all sports clubs at the university. Edinburgh is the number one sporting institution in Scotland and consistently ranks within the top 5 in the UK. With 63 sports clubs, we pride ourselves on the broad variety of sports on offer and many students have been successful in a sport they only discovered at university. From Ice Hockey to Skydiving, there really is something for everyone! To find out more about our sports clubs, please visit the Sports Fair on 14th and 15th September at the Centre for Sport and Exercise, and visit our website for all the latest sporting news www.eusu.ed.ac.uk.

Intra-Mural Sport If intense competition is not for you, our Intra-Mural programme offers a more relaxed alternative to club sport. Groups of friends or halls of accommodation can compete against each other in weekly leagues, with the emphasis on taking part and having fun. Simply choose your sport – football, hockey, netball, rugby, basketball, squash or cricket – and sign up during Freshersʼ Week to take part. For more information please visit the Sports Fair or e-mail eusu.vpim@ed.ac.uk.

Sports Performance Programme The Sports Performance Programme is run jointly by the Universityʼs Centre for Sport and Exercise (CSE) and Edinburgh University Sports Union (EUSU). Delivered alongside the companion Team Sport Performance Programme (TSPP), the Individual Sports Performance Programme (ISPP) gives essential fitness, financial, medical and advisory support for student athletes committed to succeeding on the international sporting stage. Applications are invited annually in March/April to all prospective and current students. For more information, contact Laura Hayward on laura.hayward@ed.ac.uk.

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Societies We have over 260 societies here at Edinburgh, and being involved in one (or many!) is a great way to take a break from the books and get the most from the student experience. Read our Societies Guide for details of all our societies or you can visit www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/societies. You can join a society at any point in the year, but a great time to check them out and speak to members of the societies and ask any questions is at the Societies Fair on Wednesday and Thursday of Freshersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; week at the Pleasance.

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Employment and Volunteering Part Time Jobs Students are advised to not work more than 15 hours a week during semester time and although money is necessary, it is important to remember why you are at university! Check out the University始s own job vacancy database SAGE on your MyEd page or go to www.careers.ed.ac.uk/sage for more information. You can also speak to a careers adviser who will help you with your job search. EUSA is also one of the largest employers of students in Edinburgh, visit www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/jobs to see adverts of what is currently available. New jobs come up throughout the semester so you might want to check this regularly. Jobs will also usually be advertised on SAGE.

Summer Work/Internships Internships or placements are a great way of spending the summer, learning new skills, and meeting people in the industry. SAGE is continuously updated with the latest internships and graduate schemes for companies across the world. The following websites also advertise summer work abroad and at home.

Temping Temping can be a great way to get regular income, improve your skills, gain industry experience and impress future employers. Depending on your timetable you may be able to temp in term time or perhaps only in the holidays. Edinburgh has an abundance of recruitment agencies, a google search will bring up the main ones to contact. Have your CV ready though as most agencies will usually need to see it before they let you register.

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INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS – International students usually have restrictions on the number of hours they are allowed to work. You must not exceed this, seek advice if you are unsure of the conditions of your visa. If you are from certain EU countries you may have to obtain permission or register for work. Please see www.ed.ac.uk/ schools-departments/careers/ looking-for-work/work-experience/ working-studying/eligibility or drop into The Advice Place for more information.

CVs, Application Forms and Interviews The Universityʼs award-winning Careers Service has numerous workshops, advisors and drop-in sessions to help you write an outstanding CV, ace daunting application forms and practice interview techniques. They also run psychometric tests sessions and have links to online practice websites. Check out www.ed.ac.uk/ schools-departments/careers/using-careers-service/events/ careers-service/look-for-work for more information on how they can help!

Volunteering If you have some spare time, need some work experience for your CV or just want to help out, why take a look at EUSAʼs new volunteering service? Visit www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/volunteering to register and see what opportunities match your timetable! You could find work in a range of different volunteer positions including befriending, web design, youth work and course related opportunities. We have unique volunteering opportunities that you wonʼt find anywhere else and work closely with big organisations like National Trust for Scotland and the Scouts as well a smaller grassroots projects and community centres to encourage them to create tailor made opportunities just for you. To discuss volunteering or if you have any other questions drop in to the Volunteering, Societies and Charities office centre in Potterrow and speak to an advisor. If you have a clear idea of what youʼre looking for, you can also try searching the main volunteer centre website on www.volunteeredinburgh.org.uk and make a difference during your time in Edinburgh as well as adding a little extra ʻoomphʼ to your CV!

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Religion and Faith Edinburgh is a multi-cultural city and there are facilities which cater for all faiths both within the university and throughout the city. On Campus The University Chaplaincy, Bristo Square, provides pastoral and spiritual support for students and staff regardless of faith or beliefs. They have a Chaplaincy support team and private areas for meetings, reflection, one-to-one support and hospitality www.chaplaincy.ed.ac.uk. There are contemplation rooms and prayer spaces at both the Kingʼs Buildings campus and Summerhall site. Muslim prayer rooms are also available on both the Kingʼs Buildings site and the Moray House site. New College has a contemplation room called “The Sanctuary” which is underneath the Library. For more information about religious and faith societies run by students, see www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/societies or go along to the Societies Fair during Freshersʼ Week (Wednesday and Thursday at Pleasance).

Places of worship around Edinburgh Here are just some of Edinburghʼs places of worship. Visit www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/chaplaincy/religion for a full list of what is available nearby for your faith.

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Roman Catholic Churches

Church of Scotland

THE SACRED HEART 28 Lauriston St Tel: 0131 229 9821 www.rc.net/standed/sacredheart

NEWHAVEN CHURCH 7 Craighall Road Tel: 0131 551 3931 www.n-c.org.uk

ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL Broughton Street Tel: 0131 556 1798 www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk

ST SERF’S PARISH CHURCH 280 Ferry Road Tel: 0131 478 0642 www.saintserfs.org.uk

ST PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH South Grays Close Tel: 0131 556 1973 www.stpatricksparish.co.uk

Synagogues

Mosques

EDINBURGH HEBREW CONGREGATION 4 Salisbury Road Tel: 0131 667 3144 www.ehcong.com

EDINBURGH CENTRAL MOSQUE 50 Potterrow Tel: 0131 667 1777 www.edmosque.com

SUKKAT SHALOM Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community Tel: 0131 777 8024 www.eljc.org

PAKISTAN COMMUNITY CENTRE AND MOSQUE 43-45 Annandale Street Tel: 0131 556 1226

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Your Degree In-Course Assessment The assessments differ according to subject. Many degrees will use essays but science students will be required to write lab reports and carry out marked exercises. Other forms of assessment may include field trips, placements, group work and presentations. Check your course handbooks for what sort of assessments you can expect and how these will contribute to your overall mark.

Essays and Feedback Essay regulations, such as length and format, will either be in your course handbook or provided by your tutor or lecturer. Marked essays should be returned with feedback; make use of criticisms and advice to help develop your essay-writing skills. If you are unclear about anything, speak to your tutor. If you are not getting any feedback approach your class representative. Late submission of essays will normally be penalised by a reduction in your overall mark. If you have extenuating circumstances and require an extension you should speak to your tutor or DoS as soon as possible.

Plagiarism The University takes the issue of plagiarism extremely seriously, using the Turnitin system to compare essays with the internet and databases of previous students始 essays. Where plagiarism is detected, this will be investigated formally and can have serious consequences. It is therefore very important to take care to reference your work properly; make sure that any direct quotes are contained within quotation marks and reference an author even if you have paraphrased their idea in your own words. For further information see your course handbook or the University始s general guidance on how to avoid plagiarism at www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/ academic-services/students/undergraduate/ discipline/plagiarism.

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Exam Procedures Take your matriculation card. You will need to display this on your desk so invigilators can ensure you are sitting your own exam. Arrive on time. You may be refused entry if you are more than 15 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 30 minutes or during the final 15 minutes. Ensure that your mobile phone is turned off and left inside your bag. Exams are marked anonymously. 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 re-sit it during the August exam period. If you fail this exam again, depending on your overall level of performance in your programme you may be entitled to further resits. If you fail a second year course which is compulsory to your programme, this may mean that you are not entitled to progress to Honours. Only in exceptional circumstances can a re-sit be considered a ʻfirst sitʼ, or an honours exam be taken again. For advice, speak to your DoS (or the Academic Advice team at EUSA).

Guidance on the university’s re-sit policy can be found in the Undergraduate Assessment Regulations: www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/ academic-services/policiesregulations/ regulations/assessment. To find out which courses are compulsory for your programme, see the Degree Programme Tables www.drps.ed.ac.uk/index.php.

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Repeating the year

If you fail your re-sit examinations, you may be able to take an additional year始s study to make up credits or re-sit the year, depending on your circumstances. Even if you fail just one exam, you may need an additional year of study to allow you a chance to make up the necessary credits. Sometimes this is on a full-time, and sometimes a part-time or 驶exam-only始 basis, depending what work you still need to pass. 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

There are two grounds under which you can appeal a mark: 1.

That you have substantial information directly relevant to the quality of your performance in the exam that, for good reason, was not available to the examiners when their decision was taken.

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 DoS, Supervisor or Programme Director, but also to contact an adviser at The Advice Place. Academic Advisers in The Advice Place are experienced at advising and supporting students in using the University始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 if you are struggling to cope with the demands of university in order to address any problems at the earliest opportunity.

Exclusion

The University can decide to exclude any student who continually fails to meet the standards expected of them. Students in this situation will be informed that they have Failed to make Adequate Progress, and will normally be interviewed before a decision is reached as to whether or not they are to be excluded. If a 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 the Senatus. For advice, speak to your DoS or an Academic Adviser at The Advice Place.

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Study and Revision Where to study THE STUDY, NEW AMPHION: Located just off the New Amphion, the Study is a quiet area with free-access computers which is open til 6pm every evening.

THE MAIN LIBRARY: newly refurbished and centrally located in George Square, the Library offers quiet, well-lit study areas with access to plugs for laptops as well as large computer labs with access to printers and photocopiers, as well as the largest collection of academic books in all subject areas. Open 7.30am – 2.30am Mon-Sat, 12pm – 2.30am Sun.

CAMPUS CAFÉS: For coffee-sustained study visit Teviotʼs New Amphion, The Exchange Café on the ground floor of the Business School, Absorb café in Appleton Tower, the Library Café in the Main Library, The Spot Café at KB or The View Café at Easter Bush. COMPUTER LABS: In addition to the Central Library, there are computer labs at KB, the Moray House Library and 24hour labs in the basement of the Hugh Robertson building, off George Square. For more details see www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/information-services/students.

Study and Revision Tips There is no ʻright wayʼ to study or revise. Some students read their lecture notes from start to finish, others prefer to use skeleton notes, diagrams or mnemonics. In practice, a mixture of techniques is best for dealing with different subjects and providing variety when studying. Use ‘prompt cards’, mnemonics, or spider diagrams. Study with a friend and test each other’s knowledge. Work through past question papers –use a watch to practise timing your answers. Take regular breaks, drink lots of water and get lots of sleep to help your brain work better.

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Revision planning List exam subjects and draw up a revision plan. Revise often; try to make gradual progress each day rather than cramming. Plan time off including outdoor activities; take a break, go for a walk. Adjust your timetable to focus on your weakest topics and subjects if necessary.

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 limit yourself to consolidating existing knowledge, if you can, rather than trying to learn new topics. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stay up all night revising; being overtired will not help you to do your best in the exam.

Preparing for and sitting exams Exam Stress

If you think you might be 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.

Sitting the exam

Besides studying and revising effectively there are a few things that you can do to maximise your chances of doing well in your exams: Stay calm; check you have the right equipment and leave in plenty of time Take a watch or clock so that you can time your answers. Look through the paper first, note the weighting of each question and mark difficult questions/initial thoughts. For longer answers, take a few minutes to plan Allow ten minutes at the end to read through your answers and correct mistakes. Cross out anything you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want the examiner to read

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University Resources Libraries

The best way to get to know your way round the central library is to take advantage of the guided tours in freshers’ week. Ask one of the many volunteers around campus for more details and times. Edinburgh University has an extensive library system comprising the Main Library in George Square and 12 site libraries which house subject-specific printed collections, including law, theology, science and engineering libraries. See www.lib.ed.ac.uk, ʻLibrary, museums & galleriesʼ for a comprehensive list. There are also many useful online resources, such as journals and an online library catalogue, micro-labs, individual or group study space, printers, photocopiers, and staff who can help with a whole range of enquiries. Some of the libraries will be running introductory sessions during Freshersʼ Week covering the basics of how to use the services. You can start using the service as soon as you get your university matriculation card, which also functions as your library card and gains you access to 24 hour computer labs. For more information, check the library website www.lib.ed.ac.uk. General online guide for new users, www.lib.ed.ac.uk/howto/begin Basic information skills tutorial, www.lib.ed.ac.uk/howto/infoskills

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Library and IT help resources, www.iskills.is.ed.ac.uk Guides to using the Library Catalogue are available through the Finding Resources section on the library website. For full information on all the University始s libraries, and their opening hours, see www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/ information-services/students.

Searching for Resources Every book and journal held in any of the university libraries is catalogued, and you can search the library catalogue via the Internet at catalogue.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.

Categorisation You can borrow up to 15 books at any one time and you will be sent an email (to your university email address) reminding you to return them, and details of any fines you have incurred. You can renew books online providing no one else has reserved them. There are four main categories of books in the library: REFERENCE BOOKS: Encyclopaedias, maps and journals. These cannot be removed from the library. RESERVE BOOKS: The most commonly-used books are available in HUB (High Use Books) in the Main Library. You can only borrow 3 Reserve books for a maximum of 3 hours at a time. If you borrow a book within three hours of the library closing, it can be taken home overnight. 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. STANDARD LOAN: Books that can be borrowed for up to 4 weeks by undergraduates and for 12 weeks by postgraduates.

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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 collection. Books you have out on loan can also be recalled, and you will be required to return them within seven 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. Some printed journals can be borrowed but usually they have to be read in the library.

Photocopying & Printing

Each student has a printing account that can be topped up using the print credit machines available at the larger libraries and computing labs.Students can also print directly from Windows XP laptops in open access computing labs. The library offers photocopying facilities and copycards can be bought at any of the libraries. Photocopying works in a similar system to printing, by adding credit at machines within the library using your university (matriculation) card. Some shops around George Square also offer photocopying at varying rates.

Computer Services

The University offers several computer services; STUDENT I-SKILLS SEMINARS - get to grips with issues such as presentations, spreadsheets and multimedia. INTRODUCTION TO IT - covers the basic must-know aspects of using a computer. INTRODUCTION TO MAINTAINING YOUR WINDOWS XP PC - helps you to help yourself when it comes to minor problems. WINDOWS / MAC OS LAPTOP CHECK-UP - helps with diagnosing a range of faults and general system maintenance. For more information see www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/information-services.

Computing Labs

The main computer labs at the University are in the Main Library, King始s Buildings, and the 24 hour Hugh Robson Building. For information on the computers available, and the opening times, see www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/information-services/students.

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Logging On To log on to one of the Universityʼs computers you will require a username and password. These are the same details that you use to login to the EASE system. Your username will be your matriculation number preceded by an ʻsʼ. You will receive a password in your welcome pack which you can change later.

MyEd MyEd contains your personal information including your degree details and grades, as well as providing up-to-date information on whatʼs happening at the University. You can access MyEd by logging in through EASE at www.myed.ed.ac.uk.

WebCT WebCT contains information such as course handbooks, reading lists and assignments. It can also used to sign up for tutorials or submit essays electronically. WebCT can be found under the ʻStudiesʼ tab of MyEd. If you have questions about how to use WebCT, speak to your Course Organiser.

SMS Email The University, your tutors and your DoS will use your university email to keep in touch, so remember to check regularly or change the settings to forward the emails to another account.

Wireless networking and accessing university files at home See www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/information-services/students for details on how to register for wireless internet that can be accessed around the campus, in Union buildings and the Library. You can also access the University network from Internet-enabled computers outside the University through the Virtual Private Network (VPN).

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The Careers Service 3RD FLOOR, MAIN LIBRARY Tel: 0131 650 4670 WEIR BUILDING, KING’S BUILDINGS Tel: 0131 650 5773 www.careers.ed.ac.uk Edinburgh University prides itself on its award-winning Careers Service. Based in the main library the Careers Service offers extensive material on future career options, workshops and much, much more. Check out the Careers website for a comprehensive list of the events and workshops they are planning either at the Main Library or their Kings Buildings offices, or drop by to read about opportunities on their notice board. Donʼt wait until your final year before making use of this great service; use it to tweak your CV for part-time work, plan internships for your summer holidays (highly recommended for 3rd years) and for guidance on what steps to take to either make decisions about your future or secure your chosen career path!

Things the Career Service can do for you: LOOKING FOR WORK: get help with job hunting, volunteer work and summer internships GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES: learn about how and where you can work and study around the world EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS: arrange to meet an advisor to discuss your future plans or to help you make up your mind! Writing CVs, filling out application forms, going for interviews and practicing tests

Drop-in Sessions

Mon to Fri 12pm – 4pm Open late Tuesday 5pm – 6.45pm Feel free to pop in to ask any last-minute questions about jobs, CVs or application forms. Sessions last about 10 minutes and are on a first-come-first-served basis.

Seminars Seminars and regular workshops run by the Careers Service include: Careers Information Sessions Looking for work Advice for International Students working in the UK Recruitment and Selection Process workshops Further Study For full details of each event and a yearly timetable please see the Careers Service website.

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Student Disability Service 3RD FLOOR, MAIN LIBRARY Tel: 0131 650 6828 www.ed.ac.uk/disability-office The Student Disability Service supports disabled students, providing advice and support. They support students with dyslexia, mental health issues and students on the autistic spectrum, as well as those who have physical and sensory impairments. Services they offer include exam support such as extra time, computers or scribes, support assistants, financial aid and dyslexia screening. Make an appointment with an advisor to discuss what support may be available for you.

International Office 57 GEORGE SQUARE Tel: 0131 650 4296 www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/international-office The International Office offers support and advice for enquirers, applicants, new students and current students who are from outside the UK. The International Students Centre (ISC) organises events, parties and trips to see Edinburgh and meet new people. They also run a hospitality scheme as well as other programmes. For more information see www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/international-office. The International Office is also responsible for coordinating study abroad programmes with over 350 exchanges agreements with universities in Europe, Asia, North and South America. They can offer support and advice on eligibility, the application process and feedback from previous exchange students. Find out more at www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/ international-office/about-us/study-abroad.

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Directory EUSA

Sabbatical Officers

enquiry@eusa.ed.ac.uk ww.eusa.ed.ac.uk www.eusalive.co.uk

MATT MCPHERSON, PRESIDENT president@eusa.ed.ac.uk twitter.com/eusapresident

Students’ Unions

EMMA MEEHAN, VICE PRESIDENT SOCIETIES AND ACTIVITIES vpsa@eusa.ed.ac.uk twitter.com/eusavpsa

THE POTTERROW 5/2 Bristo Square Edinburgh EH8 9AL Tel: 0131 650 2656 potterrow.reception@eusa.ed.ac.uk TEVIOT ROW HOUSE Bristo Square EH8 9AL Tel: 0131 650 4673 teviot.reception@eusa.ed.ac.uk KING’S BUILDINGS Mayfield Road Edinburgh EH9 3JF Tel: 0131 650 5772 kb.reception@eusa.ed.ac.uk THE PLEASANCE 60 The Pleasance Edinburgh EH8 9TJ Tel: 0131 650 2349 pleasance.reception@eusa.ed.ac.uk

MIKE WILLIAMSON, VICE PRESIDENT ACADEMIC AFFAIRS vpaa@eusa.ed.ac.uk twitter.com/eusavpaa PHILIPPA FAULKNER, VICE PRESIDENT SERVICES vps@eusa.ed.ac.uk twitter.com/eusavps

Freshers’ Week FRESHERS’ WEEK WEBSITE: www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/freshers LIZ EBDALE, FRESHERS’ WEEK COORDINATOR freshers.week@eusa.ed.ac.uk

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The Advice Place BRISTO SQUARE Tel: 0131 650 9225 Semester Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9.45am to 5.45pm (except Tuesday open 'til 7 & Wednesday open at 10.30am) Vacations: As per semester opening times, but closing at 4.45pm on Tuesday. KING'S BUILDINGS Tel: 0131 650 5822 Semester Opening Times: Monday - Friday, 11.00am to 2.00pm Vacations: Wednesday 11.00am to 2.00pm and by appointment

University Services ACCOMMODATION SERVICES Reception Centre Pollock Halls 18 Holyrood Park Road Edinburgh EH16 5AY Tel: 0131 667 1971 accom.allocations@ed.ac.uk www.accom.ed.ac.uk

COMPUTING SERVICES Main Library Edinburgh EH8 9LJ Tel: 0131 6503344 eucs@ed.ac.uk www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/ information-services/computing REGISTRY Old College South Bridge EH8 9YL Tel: 0131 650 2845 registry@ed.ac.uk www.registry.ed.ac.uk INTERNATIONAL OFFICE 57 George Square Edinburgh EH8 9JU Tel: 0131 650 4296 international.enquiries@ed.ac.uk www.international.ed.ac.uk STUDENT DISABILITY SERVICE 3rd Floor, Main Library Edinburgh EH8 9LJ Tel: 0131 650 6828 disability.office@ed.ac.uk www.ed.ac.uk/disability-office

CAREERS SERVICE 3rd Floor Main Library Edinburgh EH8 9LJ Tel: 0131 650 4670

UNIVERSITY HEALTH SERVICE Richard Verney Health Centre 6 Bristo Square Edinburgh EH8 9AL Tel: 0131 650 2777 www.health-service.ed.ac.uk

KINGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BUILDINGS Weir Building West Mains Road Edinburgh EH9 3JY Tel: 0131 650 5773 careers@ed.ac.uk www.careers.ed.ac.uk

UNIVERSITY PHARMACY 6 Bristo Square Edinburgh EH8 9AL pharmacy@ed.ac.uk www.healthservice.ed.ac.uk/services. shtml#pharmacy

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Student Counselling Service

Academic

3RD FLOOR, MAIN LIBRARY Edinburgh EH8 9LJ Tel: 0131 650 4170

COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCE 55-56 George Square Edinburgh EH8 9JU Tel: 0131 650 4646 hss.enquiries@ed.ac.uk www.hss.ed.ac.uk

PATERSON’S LAND Moray House School of Education Holyrood Road Edinburgh EH8 8AQ Tel: 0131 651 6200 WEIR BUILDING Kingʼs Buildings West Mains Road Edinburgh EH9 3JY Tel: 0131 650 5773 student.counselling@ed.ac.uk www.student-counselling.ed.ac.uk FREE LEGAL ADVICE CENTRE Call 07799724648 and leave your details and a brief outline of your problem. Someone will call you back to arrange an appointment. www.law.ed.ac.uk/probono

Sport CENTRE FOR SPORT AND EXERCISE 46 Pleasance Edinburgh EH8 9TJ Tel: 0131 650 2585 sportscentre@ed.ac.uk"sportscentre@ed. ac.uk www.sport.ed.ac.uk SPORTS’ UNION OFFICE 48 Pleasance Edinburgh EH8 9TJ Tel: 0131 650 2346 sports.union@ed.ac.uk www.eusu.ed.ac.uk

COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND VETERINARY MEDICINE The Queenʼs Medical Research Institute 47 Little France Crescent Edinburgh EH16 4TJ Tel: 0131 242 9300 mvm@ed.ac.uk www.mvm.ed.ac.uk THE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING Weir Building Kingʼs Buildings West Mains Road Edinburgh EH9 3JY Tel: 0131 650 5753 scieng@ed.ac.uk www.scieng.ed.ac.uk ACADEMIC SERVICES www.ed.ac.uk/academic-services

Money STUDENT SUPPORT INFORMATION (for students from England and Wales) www.direct.gov.uk/en/Education AndLearning/UniversityAndHigher Education/index.htm STUDENT SUPPORT HELPLINE Tel: 0845 300 50 90

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

STUDENT FINANCE ENGLAND PO Box 210 Darlington DL1 9HJ STUDENT AWARDS AGENCY FOR SCOTLAND (SAAS) Gyleview House 3 Redheughs Rigg Edinburgh EH12 9HH Tel: 0845 111 1711 WWW.SAAS.GOV.UK

Alcohol and Drugs ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Tel: 0845 769 7555 help@alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk CREW2000 32 Cockburn Street Edinburgh EH1 1PB Tel: 0131 220 3404 admin@crew2000.org.uk www.crew2000.org.uk DRINK LINE Tel: 0800 917 8282 EDINBURGH & LOTHIAN COUNCIL ON ALCOHOL 6 Clifton Terrace Edinburgh EH12 5DR Tel: 0131 337 8188 NATIONAL DRUGS HELPLINE Tel: 0800 77 66 00 www.talktofrank.co.uk THE SMOKELINE Tel: 0800 84 84 84

Sexual Health PREGNANCY ADVICE Caledonia Youth 5 Castle Terrace Edinburgh EH1 2DP Tel: 0131 229 3596 information@caledoniayouth.org www.caledoniayouth.org NATIONAL AIDS TRUST Tel: 0800 012 322 www.nat.org.uk DEPARTMENT OF GENITOURINARY MEDICINE (GUM) 1st Floor, Lauriston Building Lauriston Place Edinburgh EH3 9HA Tel: 0131 536 2103 DEAN TERRACE FAMILY PLANNING CLINIC 18 Dean Terrace Edinburgh EH4 1NL Tel: 0131 332 7941

Help and Advice THE SAMARITANS Tel: 08457 90 90 90 www.samaritans.org.uk BREATHING SPACE Tel: 0800 83 85 87 www.breathingspacescotland.co.uk CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU 58 Dundas Street Edinburgh Tel: 0131 557 1500 www.citizensadviceedinburgh.org.uk SCOTTISH WOMEN’S AID Tel: 0131 226 6606 contact@scottishwomensaid.org.uk www.scottishwomensaid.co.uk

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VICTIM SUPPORT SCOTLAND 15/23 Hardwell Close Edinburgh EH8 9RX Tel: 0131 668 4486 info@victimsupportsco.org.uk"info@ victimsupportsco.org.uk www.victimsupportsco.org.uk NATIONAL SELF-HARM NETWORK Tel: 0800 622 6000 support@nshn.co.uk www.nshn.co.uk DEPRESSION ALLIANCE SCOTLAND Tel: 0845 123 23 20 info@dascot.org www.dascot.org RESPECT UK Respect Phone line: Tel: 0845 122 8609 Menʼs Advice Line: Tel: 0808 801 0327 www.respect.uk.net

Police Stations ST. LEONARD’S POLICE STATION Divisional Headquarters 14 St. Leonards Street Edinburgh EH8 9QW Tel: 0131 662 5000 GAYFIELD SQUARE POLICE STATION 2 Gayfield Square Edinburgh EH1 3NW Tel: 0131 556 9270 HOWDEN HALL POLICE STATION 9 Howden Hall Road Edinburgh EH16 6TF Tel: 0131 666 2222

B-EAT Tel: 0845 634 1414 www.b-eat.co.uk

www.eusa.ed.ac.uk

Be partt of our ener energy B e par gy vision. Switch after use.. S witch off af ter use TThe he University University of Edinburgh Edinburgh is ccommitted ommitted tto o rreducing educing energy energy usage and car carbon bon emissions, emissions, please get involved involved and be a part part of our ener energy gy vision. FFor or some simple ways ways tto o get involved involved check out our website website www.ed.ac.uk/saving-energy www.ed.ac.uk/saving-energy