The Oxford University Student Union
international
freshers’ guide 2012
...everything you need to know about student life at Oxford!
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contents Introduction 3 Welcome 4 The Oxford University Student Union 6 2012 Sabbatical Officers Before you arrive 10 Check list 12 Visas & Immigration 13 What to Bring Welcome to University 14 International Orientation 15 Freshers’ Fair 17 Inside Oxford 19 Oxspeak 20 Accomodation 22 Undergraduate Life 24 Finance for Undergraduates 25 Finance for Graduates 26 Graduate Life Living in the UK 28 British Culture 30 Banking 31 Travel 32 Staying in Touch Student Union Campaigns 34 Mature Students’ Campaign 35 Students with Disabilities Campaign Women’s Campaign 36 Campaign for Racial Awareness & Equality Living Wage Campaign 37 International Students’ Campaign LGBTQ Campaign 38 Environment & Ethics Committee Mind Your Head Campaign 39 Target Schools Committee Raise and Give
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Get Involved - Clubs & Societies 40 The Union 42 Academic 44 Charity 45 Oxhub 46 Drama 48 Music 49 Oxide Radio 50 International & Cultural 52 Politics 54 Journalism 56 Religion & Spirituality 60 Sport Health & Wellbeing 62 The Student Advice Service 64 Welfare Provision 66 Healthcare 67 Disabilities 68 Academic Support 70 Well-being
Design & Project Management Imogen Bassett Business Manager Max Richardson Acknowledgements The OUSU sabbatical team (past and present), Joey Faulkner, Jennifer Allen, Brona O’Toole, The International Students’ Campaignt Printers Oxuniprint Ltd. Published and copyrighted by Oxford Student Services Ltd., the commercial arm of the Oxford University Student Union. Oxford Student Services Limited 2 Worcester Street, Oxford, OX1 2BX T (01865) 288 452, F (01865) 288 453 www.ousu.org publisher@ousu.org Every effort is made to ensure that the information in The International Freshers’ Guide is accurate. However, no responsibility is taken for any errors or omissions, or any loss arising therefrom. Neither the editors, OSSL nor OUSU are necessarily in agreement with any of the views expressed. However, we should be glad to hear from you regarding mistakes, additions and suggestions at the above address.
welcome
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ongratulations on your acceptance to the University of Oxford. As an international student, you are joining a rich and diverse community of students that stretches back almost 1000 years. Whatever you are studying, you will get to experience some of the unique benefits of the Oxford system, rubbing shoulders regularly with academics who are experts in their fields - either in tutorials, classes, supervisions, or even as part of your college social life. One of the major features of life here is the collegiate system. Being part of a college offers you a small, international community through which you can get to know students from every discipline, as well as giving you the chance to be part of extra-curricular clubs and societies that are easily accessible. Whichever college you applied to, you will soon discover that the one you end up at is likely to quickly become your favourite! The d the college walls. As a student community we are stronger when we work together, and those students who choose to get involved in public life hugely enrich the University.
This can be through joining one of our incredibly professional sports teams; taking part in the many musical and dramatic opportunities; through membership of one of our 650 clubs and societies; or the Student Union. No matter how you choose to participate during your time here, I hope that you make the choice to get involved and experience your passions to the fullest extent. Oxford is a fantastic place to live, play and study, and the opportunities it offers are many. Make the most of them. A final note: keeping up with work while trying to adjust to a new country and culture may understandably seem daunting, but as you’ll find in this guide, there are plenty of ways to meet people and make friends from your own home country, from the UK and from pretty much anywhere you can think of. If you find yourself struggling with work or the culture here, you won’t be alone. Always remember that Oxford is an international University. Everyone is welcome here! David Townsend OUSU President Chris Gray Vice-President Graduates Yulin Zhang International Students’ Officer Maryam Torshizi Grad International Students’ Officer If you would like to get involved with the International Students’ Campaign EMAIL: international@ousu.org
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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n o i n u t n e d stu YOUR
As a student at Oxford you are now automatically a member of the Oxford University Student Union (OUSU). OUSU exists to defend and improve the experience of every student in Oxford. By working together we are better able to act on common concerns and win on the issues that matter. Here’s a quick summary of some of the things we do:
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representation & campaigning
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USU represents Oxford students to the University, local and national Government, and the wider world. It is through OUSU that students influence the direction and operations of the University and have their say in the big debates affecting us all. Last year, for example, OUSU helped create the most generous financial aid package in the country, ran the first ever student-led Teaching Awards, and worked with the local council to improve student housing in Oxford. There are a range of Student Union campaigns you can get involved in if you are passionate about making change in the University or the student community. Some of our most successful campaigns include the Mind Your Head Campaign, 1_INTRODUCTION
campaigning for mental health awareness, and Target Schools, who have created a database of over 600 current Oxford students willing to help go out to schools and break the myths which stop talented school leavers from applying here. Other campaigns include the International Students’ Campaign, the Women’s Campaign, the Mature Students Campaign, the Campaign for Racial Awareness and Equality, the Living Wage Campaign and the Environment and Ethics Campaign. Come and find us at Freshers’ Fair to learn more and see how you can get involved! We also have a very active Charity Committee ‘Raise and Give’ (RAG) who work with common rooms and across the university to raise tens of thousands of pounds every year.
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USU runs many of the key services that make student life easier and better in Oxford. We organise the annual OUSU Freshers Fair, attended by thousands of new and old students to see all that Oxford extra-curricular life has to offer. We also sell student discount cards and stock up your common room welfare supplies! OUSU holds regular film screenings and forums on a range of pertinent issues. Along with Oxford Brookes University, we run the Safety Bus, the best way to get to anywhere within the Oxford Ring Road for just a pound. Our official partners Varsity Events run safe, cheap and fun club nights throughout the year at various locations in the city. We also produce one of the two weekly university newspapers, The Oxford Student, as well as Oxford’s only student radio station, Oxide.
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STUDENT SERVICEs
Finally we produce a Careers Guide in partnership with the Careers Service, so wherever you are and whatever you do during your time at Oxford, OUSU will be there, improving the quality of your student experience in Oxford.
SUPPORT & WELFARE
he Student Advice Service offers free, confidential advice to any student at the University. We are there to help with everything from information requests to problems with academic discipline or complaints procedures. The service helped over 400 students last year and is now supported by two full-time Student Advisers. If you ever need help, just email advice@ousu.org.
OUSU also supports your Common Room representatives in their work representing you to your College. We provide the training, advice and information to help you get lower rent, better food and higher-quality services. Similarly, we are very active in supporting Clubs and Societies to do the best they can for their members.
gettinginv olved
Any Student Union is only ever as good as the students who get involved. Over the next term we’ll be holding elections that give you the chance to become active in any aspect of our work. Whether you’re interested in fair access to Oxford, student welfare or our relationship with the world around us, you’ll have the chance to stand for election and shape the direction that we take as a student community. We’ll also be consulting on what OUSU’s big priorities for the next three years should be. Email one of the current full-time officers or the Returning Officer on ro@ousu.org to find out more. There’s never been a more exciting time to be involved in the student union. OUSU has a great deal of respect both within and outside of the University, and the Oxford student voice is becoming more and more powerful on every issue we speak on. With your help we can continue to fight for and support the best possible student experience in Oxford. The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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sabbaticalofficers Sabbatical Officers are paid employees, elected annually by students to work full-time for the Student Union. They are your first point of contact for most enquires, and they can normally be contacted at the OUSU offices during working hours. Meet your 2012/13 Sabbatical team!
David J Townsend
President
president@ousu.org
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y job covers, in one way or another, everything that OUSU does. I am the chief representative of Oxford students within the University, and sit on a huge range of committees right up to University Council. I also represent students to the local community and council, as well as to the media, the National Union of Students and the National Government. My portfolio also covers supporting Common Room Presidents and other student leaders, delivering training and co-ordinating the major campaigns of the Student Union. As President I am also involved in the management of the Student Union, whether by interpreting the Constitution, organising meetings of OUSU Council, hiring staff or helping to produce the annual budget. Before OUSU I completed undergraduate degrees in law, Latin and Italian in Sydney before coming to Oxford for master’s and doctoral degrees in law.
Chris Gray
Vice-President (Graduates)
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graduates@ousu.org
represent and support graduate, international, and mature students during their study at Oxford. Much of my time is spent advancing their interests on the University’s key Committees, but I also work closely with graduate student groups in colleges Middle Common Rooms (or MCRs). Here I work to train and co-ordinate MCR Presidents and other MCR members, supporting their college activities and bringing together campaigns on wider graduate issues. Over the past year OUSU has raised the profile of graduate issues and I plan on building on this, focusing on graduate funding and on the quality of the graduate academic experience. If you are interested in getting involved in any of this work, or have any questions, then don’t hesitate to get in touch. I am also a member of the Student Advice Service. After finishing my undergraduate degree in History at Sheffield, I studied for a master’s degree in History at Oxford. 1_INTRODUCTION
Katie Colliver
Vice-President (Welfare)
welfare@ousu.org t is my job to campaign for the well-being of students in the University. I provide support for JCR and MCR welfare officers in the form of training, resources and advice. I also represent the interests of students to University officials, campaigning for better standards of provision in such areas as counselling and disability provision. I also run the Student Advice Service, a team dedicated to providing support, information and advice to students. The Service is free, confidential and impartial. Members of the Student Advice Service can also advocate on behalf of students in hearings, if they should so need. The third part of my role is the promotion of equality throughout the University. I support the work of OUSU’s autonomous equal opportunities campaigns: the LGBTQ Campaign, the Students With Disabilities Campaign and the Campaign for Racial Awareness and Equality. These campaigns work to raise awareness of equal opportunities issues and to create an environment where students are treated fairly regardless of disability, race or sexuality. I have just completed a BA in Philosophy and Psychology.
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Sarah Santhosham
Vice-President (Charities & Community)
charities@ousu.org he VP (C&C) role can be split into four sub-sections: Charity, Community, Environment and Ethics and the Living Wage Campaign. In the Charity side of the role, I co-ordinate the work of the student fundraising society ‘Raise and Give’, support common rooms with their charity events and am there to help other student charities with resources and information. I oversee the Environment and Ethics committee which works for the implementation of OUSU policy on issues of sustainability, ethical investment and climate change as well as helping students campaign on all levels from college recycling to international crises. I also support the Oxford Living Wage Campaign to fight to achieve a living wage of £7.20 for all employees in the Oxford area. I also represent students in interactions with the city of Oxford, liaising with local community representatives and addressing other situations as they arise. This allows Oxford students to work more closely with the community while facilitating projects like the Safety Bus, which provides a welfare service for students needing to get home after nights out. I have just finished four years at Corpus Christi College. where I read Classics.
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The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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David Messling
Vice-President (Access & Academic Affairs) access@ousu.org
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y job as the VP Access and Academic Affairs is to make Oxford’s education the best it can be, and to make it accessible to everyone with the academic potential to be here. Part of that is done by representing Oxford students’ views on numerous University committees, covering Admission, Education, Libraries, IT, Student Support and more! Simultaneously, a big part of my role is to support College Common Rooms and Departmental Reps in addressing academic issues and promoting access to study at Oxford. I work closely with OUSU’s long-running access campaign Target Schools, seeking to ensure that prospective students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, receive as much information and support as possible when considering applying to Oxford. I’m also a member of the Student Advice Service, and available to offer free, confidential and impartial advice, information and support on a range of issues; particularly problems with courses, colleges and any other academic issues experienced by students while studying in Oxford. If you’ve got any issues or ideas about Oxford’s academic provision, want to get involved in promoting access, or need advice, just get in touch! Before starting my year at OUSU, I studied BA History and Economics at St John’s.
Suzanne Holsomback Vice-President (Women) women@ousu.org
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omen compose 45.4% of Oxford student, but are continually under-represented throughout the University. It is my job to ensure that the issues affecting student who identify as women are integral in the activities of the University, the colleges, and the Student Union. My work involves representation, advocacy, and welfare. I do this through campaigning for gender equality, working alongside the part-time Women’s Campaign Officer and the Graduate Women’s Officer, and supporting Women’s Campaign and Gender Campaign, Women’s Officers in Common Rooms, and student parents of all genders. I also facilitate a Leadership Development Programme, Sexual Consent and Harassment Workshops and Finals Forums as well as working with the University to improve harassment policy and support for victims and survivors. In addition to all of these responsibilities, I am a member of the Student Advice Service, where I’m available to provide confidential support and information on any issue you may face. After completing my Bachelor of Art in Religion and Classics and a Master of Divinity in Theology in the States, I came to Oxford to complete a Master of Philosophy in Social and Cultural Anthropology. 1_INTRODUCTION
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The official Freshers’ Fair for The University of Oxford The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
check
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beforeyouarrive Check them off once you have completed each task... Apply for your student visa (if necessary) Visit www.ox.ac.uk/students/international_students or contact student.immigration@ admin.ox.ac.uk Arrange accommodation and notify your college, landlady/landlord your arrival date For help contact your college’s Domestic Bursar or the University’s Accommodation Office at accommodation.office@admin.ox.ac.uk Collect documentation you will need when you arrive (and make photocopies) Visit http://tinyurl.com/bo8rkj9 for more information Research ways to transfer money from your home country to the UK Speak to your home bank for more information Plan your budget for while you’re here! Use the budget calculator at http://international.studentcalculator.org.uk Get some pounds to use for your first few days here Ask your home bank or local currency exchange service Sign up for the University’s Meet and Greet Service If you would like to meet Oxford students at Heathrow Airport visit www.ox.ac.uk/students/ new/meet
Sign up for the University’s European and International Student Orientation Programme Visit www.ox.ac.uk/students/new/orientation Register with your College Doctor (you can also do this after you arrive if necessary) Contact your college’s Student Administrator for more information Register for your course on Student Self Service Visit http://tinyurl.com/7k5qs3y for a guide to registration
2_BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
list
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afteryouarrive Set up a bank account See p.30 for details Register with the police within seven days (if your passport indicates this is necessary) Visit www.ox.ac.uk/students/international_students for more information or contact student.immigration@admin.ox.ac.uk Visit your college to have your passport scanned and complete registration Contact your college’s Admissions Officer for more information if necessary Print your enrolment certificate from Student Self Service (you might need it for opening a bank account or registering with the police) Visit www.ox.ac.uk/students/studentselfservice Check out DailyInfo for information about everything there is to do and see in Oxford! www.dailyinfo.co.uk Buy or hire your academic gown and mortar board Ask your college’s Common Room President if there are any second-hand ones available to buy. If not, visit www.shepherdandwoodward.co.uk/academic Book a class at the Language Centre (if you want to improve your English or other languages while you’re here) Visit www.lang.ox.ac.uk Research student insurance options for your belongings (if you would like some while you’re here) Speak to your bank in Oxford or visit www.endsleigh.co.uk Buy a TV licence if necessary More information is available at www.tvlicensing.co.uk
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
visas&immigration
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before you arrive If you are not a national of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you will probably need a visa (Entry Clearance) to study in the United Kingdom. For full-time courses lasting more than 6 months, you should apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa. Those already holding a different category of visa (for example a dependent visa, work visa or ancestry visa) may be able to study on that visa without needing to apply under Tier 4. If you realise a mistake has been made on your visa (length of visa, work conditions, etc), contact student.immigration@admin.ox.ac.uk immediately, as you may be able to have this rectified from within the UK.
AFTER you arrive If you are a national of a certain country or territory (please see the list at http://tinyurl. com/795k9oc) with a visa which is valid for six months or more and you are aged 16 or over, you will normally be required to register with the police within seven days of your arrival in the UK. Staff from Thames Valley Police will be available at the Examinations Schools from 9am – 5pm on Friday 28th September and Friday 5th October to receive completed Police Registration forms. Details of how to sign up and take advantage of this arrangement will be available at European and International Student Orientation on Thursday 27th September (for postgraduate and recognised students) and Monday 1st October (for undergraduate and visiting students).
WHILE YOU ARE HERE Students holding a Tier 4 student visa have important legal obligations during their time in the UK. Please take time to read your obligations as a visa holder and what to do if your circumstances change at www.ox.ac.uk/students/international_students/ visaduring. As the holder of a Tier 4 student visa will normally be allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during term and full time during the holidays. However Oxford does not allow undergraduates to work during term-time.Please refer to the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) information about working during your studies (avaiable at http://tinyurl.com/7b68626) for more information. For further help or advice regarding any of the issues discussed on this page, please contact the Student Information and Advisory Service (SIAS) at student. immigration@admin.ox.ac.uk. More information is also available on the Student Gateway at www.ox.ac.uk/students/international_students.
2_BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
what to bring • Passport • Passport-sized photographs • Proof of your acceptance to Oxford, your term-time address, and your funding
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• • • • • •
or money available to you (you will need to show these to Border Control at the airport. More detailed information is available at www.ukcisa.org.uk). Photocopies of all important documents, including your passport and visa (keep one copy in your checked bag and one in your hand luggage) Some cash (in pound sterling) to use until you get a bank account set up Medical and vaccination records Any brand name medications which might not be available through the National Health Service (more information is available through NHS direct at www.nhsdirect. nhs.uk) A towel (useful to have if you don’t have time to buy one immediately after arriving) UK power adapter Mobile phone (if you have one which can take a UK SIM card – see our Staying in Touch page for advice!) Waterproof coat or jacket (the rain can catch you by surprise here) Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll do a lot of walking in Oxford) Sub-fusc attire (see http://tinyurl.com/3dt92q for help with this)
what not to bring • Books (with so many libraries and bookstores in Oxford, you can get what you
whattobring
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hen you’re moving to a new place (particularly a new country), it’s really hard to know what to bring, and it’s really easy to bring too much! The best advice is to pack light (especially when most airlines impose a 23kg/51lb weight limit on checked-in luggage!) and only bring what you’ll definitely need during your first few days here.
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need when you get here!) • Beauty-related electrical appliances (things like hair dryers and curling irons from other countries tend to blow fuses—even when using them with UK adapters!) • Any perishable food items (they will be taken away from you at the airport) • Sheets (unless you specifically buy some that will fit UK beds! Bed sizes are here: http://tinyurl.com/n6okb7)
what to buy AFTER YOU ARRIVE • • • • • • • • •
Household goods (i.e. sheets, towels, dishes) Mobile phone (if needed) or UK SIM card Academic gown and mortar board Bike (if you plan to cycle in Oxford) Umbrella (a necessary thing to have in Oxford) Winter coat, hat, and gloves (unless you have really good ones from home!) Hot water bottle (useful to have for your bed in the winter) TV license Bus pass (only really necessary if you will be using the bus on a daily basis) The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
international orientation
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Your first week at University will be an exciting yet daunting time. Luckily there are plenty of ways in which you can start to feel at home.
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he Student Information and Advisory Service (SIAS) run a Meet and Greet Service to welcome European and International students arriving at Heathrow Airport from Monday 24th September 2012 to Sunday 30 September 2012, 8am to 8pm each day. Current students from Oxford will meet you at the Central Bus Station to direct you to the bus to Oxford, explain how to find your college/accommodation and answer any questions you may have. SIAS also hold a free Orientation Programme for undergraduate and postgraduate European and international students before the start of Freshers’ Week in Michaelmas term. The Orientation Programme consists of a number of talks and an information fair which will provide basic information about the academic framework of Oxford degrees, living in Oxford, academic and health/welfare support services available to students, working during your studies, visa information, language courses, and the chance to meet banks and start the process to open an account. You will have the chance to meet with current students, administrative staff and other new international students. In addition to attending the programme, you can sign up for optional walking tours of Oxford run by current students who will show you the location of banks, shops, libraries and supermarkets. You can find out the dates and location for the Orientation Programme by logging on to www.ox.ac.uk/students/new/. To register for the Meet and Greet Service or the Orientation Programme, please register on the Student Gateway website at www.ox.ac.uk/students/ new/orientation, by September 17th, 2012 (registration If you have questions regarding code: KA800065). You must check with your college orientation, please contact the Student before registering that accommodation will be available Information and Advisory Service at for you during the week of orientation. student.information@admin.ox.ac.uk. The week before first week is referred to as 0th or noughth week. In Michaelmas term, noughth week is traditionally filled with activities organized by colleges and departments to help you settle in and find your way around town. The schedule of events is intense, and almost manic, during Freshers’ Week, but you will receive lots of helpful advice, meet loads of new people (including your tutors) and discover your college and the University.
3_WELCOME TO UNIVERSITY
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he Freshers’ Fair is one of the largest events organised by the Oxford University Student Union. Every year thousands of students descend on the University Exam Schools to hear pitches from more than 500 clubs, teams, societies, charities and commercial stall holders. You simply won’t find another event that involves so much of the student body, or that provides as much fun, freebies and opportunities. Although it may feel like the only reason anybody ever comes to Oxford is to learn, for many people life at university is something that begins far outside of the library. Whether it’s dedicating large swathes of your time to practising with a sports team, sowing the seeds of you future career organising for an entrepreneurial society, or writing for a newspaper - whatever it is you’re looking for, you’ll definitely find it at the Fair. You can probably predict some of the organisations that will be attending: as well as every sport under the sun (including five types of football), there are also societies dedicated to politics, music, arts, drama, culture and charities. This probably sounds like a bit of a maze, so to make it more navigable, the Fair is divided into different sections of similar societies, so don’t be surprised to find the Greens opposite Conservative
freshers’fair
You’d better learn your new email address fast, because here every society is baying for it!
Future. For an international feel, check out the area with the societies catering for all the nationalities and languages represented at the University, whilst the commercial marquee is well-stocked with graduate recruiters and local businesses from around Oxford, ready to tempt you into their store with a well-placed freebie or voucher. The OUSU Sabbatical Officers will also be at the Fair to meet and greet you and to answer any questions you might have, so do take the chance to chat to us and hear what your Student Union can do for you. The Fair runs over three days at the University Exam Schools. Times are arranged with colleges in advance and you’ll be informed when you and the rest of your year are coming to the Fair. For further information visit www.oxfordfreshersfair. org.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
FRESHERS’
HOODIE
2012
Congratulations on getting into Oxford and welcome to the Class of 2012! To celebrate your matriculation into the University and your college, order your Freshers' hoodie by 26th September and we will deliver it in time for Freshers’ Week. Pick your college and personalise it with your own name. Your Student Union has negotiated a great deal for all Freshers – just £22.99! Your hoodie can be delivered to your home or collected from your new College. Go to www.ousu.org for details on how to order.
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hen you first come to Oxford you’ll notice that Oxford isn’t just one campus; the University is spread out across the entire city, with departments, libraries, colleges and services all mixed in with the rest of the town. The collegiate system is one of Oxford’s oldest defining features. However, it is unfamiliar to most people before they come to Oxford and can be a bit confusing at first. For undergraduates, quite a bit of teaching is likely to be in college, while graduates are mostly taught in departments. Most colleges have around 400 students or fewer and are tight-knit communities so it very quickly becomes your home. Your college will have Common Rooms for undergraduate and graduate students (normally called JCRs and MCRs respectively) and Common Room committees which will organise social events and student support, as well as represent your views to the college. You will also have access to your subject faculty - these are all pretty central and easy to find. Generally you’ll have most of your lectures here, along with labs for scientists. You may have some seminars and classes in your faculty with larger groups. Some faculties will have a Common Room or café too and all have well-stocked libraries. In fact, it’s almost impossible to walk 100 yards in Oxford without running into a library of some kind. All colleges have a library and study
insideoxford
The finer points of Oxford’s baffling structure
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spaces, many of which are open 24 hours a day. The jewel in Oxford’s library crown, though, is unquestionably the Bodleian (known affectionately as ‘the Bod’). Thanks to its Copyright Deposit Library status, the Bod holds a copy of practically everything printed in Britain since 1602. Obviously not all of these books can be held on-site, but you can order anything from the Bod’s catalogues to a specific library or reading room within 24 hours (a process known as a ‘stack request’). Bear in mind that the Bod doesn’t allow people to borrow books, so you can only use them during opening hours. The Bod’s science collections are held in the Radcliffe Science Library (RSL) opposite Keble College. Finally, OUSU, your Student Union, is located in Gloucester Green, next to the main bus station. Central student services, such as the Careers Service, Disability Advisory Service and Counselling Service are spread across the city and open to all students, regardless of college. Examination Schools are located on the High Street and look every bit as scary as you would imagine. Don’t worry about them yet, though!
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
18Introducing Oxford Uni’s New Cocktail Bar & Club
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oxspeak
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Hack (v & n): Used to describe both the solicitation of votes and the type of person that does it. JCR/MCR//GCR/SCR (n): ‘CR’ means ‘Common Room’; ‘J’ is for ‘Junior’ The good, the bad and the (undergrad), ‘M’ is middle (grads), ‘G’ is ‘Graduate’ and ‘S’ is for ‘Senior’ (fellows and ugly of Oxford’s not-so-secret tutors). Can refer to both the physical space and language the constituent members. Matriculation (n): Battels (n): Ceremony held a couple of weeks after coming College bills for accommodation, meals, cleaning up (regardless of geography, you always ‘come up your mess, etc. up’ to Oxford) for the first time. This is the official Bod Card (n): moment of induction to the University. Your student card. It’s an ID, a library card and a Michaelmas/Hilary/ Trinity (n): credit card for meals in college. The names of the terms. Michaelmas is October Bop (n): to December; Hilary is January to March; Trinity is Sweaty, boozy, cheesy college party where April to June. costumes comes as standard. Mods/Prelims (n): Collections (n): Your first public (i.e. not college) exams, usually Mock exams set by tutors at the start of term. at the end of first year. They don’t count towards They don’t count towards your degree at all, but your degree, but you do need to pass them to some colleges will insist you take them seriously continue with the course. anyway. Pidge (v & n): Confirmation (v): Short for ‘Pigeon Hole’. Your internal and external Similar to Transfer, a bout of writing with a chat post will be found here. at the end. Happens towards the end of a DPhil, Proctors (n): usually at the end of second year or beginning of Two fellows appointed yearly to oversee student third. discipline and welfare across the whole University. Cuppers (n): Rusticated/Sent down (n): Inter-collegiate competitions, from drama to Being made to leave the University as a croquet. punishment. Rustication is a suspension, being Dean (n): sent down means you’re out for good. College official in charge of discipline. aka: rector, Sub fusc (n): provost. Clothing worn underneath a gown with a Entz (n): mortarboard for exams and other formal Organised fun. Usually run by your CR committee occasions. – film nights, bops, etc. Submission (n): Fellow (n): For DPhils, the final bit of writing and a chat. The A member of a college’s Senior Common Room writing has to be 100,000 words this time, and or Teaching staff. the chat is in sub fusc and open to the public Finals (n): Transfer (v): Technically any exam or assessment that actually The process DPhil students have to go through in counts towards your degree. Usually used to order to become proper DPhil students. Usually refer to the two weeks or so at the end of your happens at the end of first year and involves course. writing a report and an oral exam. Formal Hall (n): Tute (n): Dinner in college, but posher. Short for tutorial.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
Living in college
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any students choose to live in college during their time in Oxford. Every college will provide accommodation for 1st year undergraduate students. Every college will have their own arrangements for housing, so it worth investigating your college’s policy. Many students are housed within the college site with others living on college-owned premises around the city. It is worth noting that the length of lease and the cost of staying in college outside of term time can vary. Your college’s JCR or MCR should be able to help you out with any queries you have with accommodation. Alternatively you can ask a member of your college’s staff for help. You will be charged for the costs of living in college on your termly bill called ‘battels’. Each college will have different time limits for paying the bills and they will inform you of the expectations for payment when presenting you with the bill. Accommodation varies between colleges but it is fair to expect a bed, desk, chair, closet, heating, and an Internet connection in your room. You may also have a personal bathroom or you will share a bathroom with a number of other people. Some colleges provide small kitchens for accommodation blocks in addition to their own Hall facilities. Often you will want to leave various items in Oxford between terms. Some colleges offer vacation storage, either in college or in other accommodation buildings. Storage is often very scarce, so you will want to check with your JCR/MCR or college to find out whether or not there is any available to you. If your college does not provide such storage, there are a number of storage firms in Oxford who you can leave items with for a fee. In some colleges, you are able to live on-site for your entire course, whereas in others on-site accommodation is only available in your first year. Check with your college as to their specific arrangements. Some colleges do not have sufficient housing and therefore require you to live out after your first year.
Living out of college
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iving out of college provides a chance for a greater degree of freedom in some areas and extra responsibility in others. The University Accommodation Office runs the Oxford Studentpad, a website which contains a searchable database of available private sector housing. Go to http:// www.oxfordstudentpad.co.uk/Home for more information. Alternatively, you can use Letting agencies, of which Oxford has many. There are a number of areas in the city where private housing is available for rent. It is worth researching the various areas, as they differ in both tangible terms (such as the cost of rent) and intangible terms (such as the type of community - some are more densely populated with students than others). Before agreeing to lease a house, you should check your landlord has a HMO licence and is part of the Deposit Protection Scheme. Landlords are required to be For more information and help, check out involved in both schemes. You should OUSU’s Living Out Guide, visit the OUSU request a written copy of a tenancy website; www.ousu.org, or email the Viceagreement and read it thoroughly before President (Welfare & Equal Opportunities) signing. on welfare@ousu.org.
3_WELCOME TO UNIVERSITY
Don’t leave home without it
NUS extra discount card
the essential student card
nus.org.uk
can you afford not to?
undergraduate life
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Coming up to Oxford as an undergraduate? Want to know more about what the work will be like? Let us prepare you for what to expect...
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hen you first arrive, it’s common to feel a little nervous at the prospect of studying alongside some of the brightest students in the country. But ask around and it’ll soon become clear that most Freshers are convinced they only just scraped in by some fluke. You’ve got a place because tutors are convinced of your academic potential and over the years they’ve become pretty good at picking the right people! Along with this Freshers’ Guide you may well have been sent your first reading list or problem sheet, and you may already be wondering about the work you’ll have to do at Oxford. The reading lists given out by tutors are not meant to be ploughed through exhaustively; nor do you have to read everything coverto-cover. Your tutor won’t expect you to have read everything and they know you’ll have had less time for your first essay or problem sheet and it needn’t take over your first week. Some aspects of the course will be more taxing for some than others, but tutors are more than aware of this fact and anticipate
3_WELCOME TO UNIVERSITY
that everyone will have to do some catching up. Tutors usually have a positive attitude to you sharing ideas and problems with other students, and if you really get stuck, it’s absolutely not the end of the world. The module handbooks are invaluable places to look for help and subject parents are more than willing to lend a hand. The language used in some journal papers can seem very dense and confusing at first but it really does get easier after a short time. The most important thing is not to panic about how good your first piece of work is going to be; your tutors are not going to make permanent judgements of you on the basis of early work or expect your early essays to be masterpieces! Although you’ll obviously want to do your best, your best will get a lot better, and while your first essay or problem sheet may not be that of a Finalist, it’ll definitely be good enough for your first tutorial. It can take a while to figure out Oxford’s different forms of teaching and how to get the most out of them. Lectures are generally a good way of
getting to grips with the core material and clarifying things that may not be clear from your reading. Classes often take the form of an open discussion with students presenting on certain topics. Some students are tense about presenting at first, but it’s an important skill and you’ll quickly get lots of practice. The part of Oxford’s teaching that sometimes worries new students is the tutorial, however part of the reason you were offered a place here was because you did well in the interview; and having done well in the interview, you’re set up to succeed in tutorials! Tutorials differ between subjects and between tutors, but generally they are an opportunity for you to present and discuss ideas with your tutor, stretch your thinking into new territory and deepen your understanding. Some students talk about ‘surviving’ tutorials rather than enjoying them, and it’s true that if you don’t put in any effort then you can get a bit of a grilling, or worse, awkward
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the tutorial itself is the opportunity for tutors to give detailed oral feedback on work. It’s worth remembering that any criticism is meant to be constructive, and you will have a chance to act on a lot of it for the next week.
If you feel that you’re not getting as much out of your tutorials and classes as you would like then it’s definitely worth discussing the issue with your tutor, personal tutor, or your College support team (see Welfare for more details on who’s who). You will likely have catch-up meetings at the end of each term where your tutor will check that you’ve been happy with your progress over the course of the term and these are good opportunities to flag up any concerns which you may have. Remember – the teaching is designed to help you and if you feel that it is not then you should make sure that your college knows that you’re having problems. While most students enjoy their experience of studying at Oxford there may well be weeks where silences. But get through a chunk of the reading you feel like you’re not getting a great deal out list, put some thought into your argument and of it – a lot of people feel this way, both because spend a little time writing and proof-reading, and of the intense nature of Oxford’s short terms and you’ll quickly find out why tutorials are the most because of the sometimes heavy workload. There inspirational, rewarding and prized aspects of a are lots of places you can go to for help, and the degree at Oxford. OUSU Student Advice Service (advice@ousu. Some tutors will cover your essay with org) can assist you and direct you to the best comments and ticks, others will give it a grade people and resources. while others may hardly make a mark at all; but
The most important thing is not to worry about how good your first piece of work is going to be
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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finance :forundergraduates With university comes a level of fincial independence and responsibility that you probably won’t have encountered before. Let us help you stay on top of your finances.
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hile studying at university is never particularly cheap, Oxford has many measures in place to ensure that financial concerns don’t threaten your degree. First off are government-backed loans and grants, and the bursaries provided by the University. These vary by country and within the UK, and for full details take a look at www.ox.ac. uk/feesandfunding. Most students from the UK and EU chose to take out a student loan to cover their fees, and, depending on family income, part of their living costs - these loans have relatively low interest rates, and won’t need to be paid back until you’re earning above £21,000 after your degree. Almost all UK residents are able to open a student bank account offering an interest-free overdraft of over £1,000. This can be very useful, but it does need to be repaid soon after graduation to avoid the overdraft charges that kick in when you are no longer a student. Many Colleges also have money available for those in hardship, as well as grants for travel or study support. It’s well worth talking to your 3_WELCOME TO UNIVERSITY
College Office or your JCR about what’s available. If you find yourself in sudden financial difficulty then your college will typically be the best place to get assistance – your first point of contact should be your College Secretary or Hardship Officer. Alongside the support available from both the University and your college, the short Oxford terms mean more time during vacations to earn some money.Tutors don’t like you having a job during term time, and in any case, you’ll probably find you don’t have enough time to study, hold down a job and enjoy yourself too! You might want to consider making a budget for each week or term. Even if it consists of nothing more than an allocated amount of money per week, you’ll find it much easier to keep track of spending, and avoid nasty surprises when you check your bank balance! Finally, if you’re concerned about any aspect of funding or support then your College Office or the Student Funding office (student.funding@ admin.ox.ac.uk) will be able to answer any questions, or you can email the OUSU Student Advice Service on advice@ousu.org.
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It’s worth thinking about finance early so you can make the most of your time at Oxford.
the need to travel to carry out field work or attend conferences. There are a few additional costs to living in Oxford that you wouldn’t necessarily need to think about at other Universities: you need a gown and cap and a dark suit (‘sub fusc’); you may find yourself attending more formal events or meals than elsewhere; you may decide a bike is Fees are most significant cost of studying in necessary to help you fit in everything you want to Oxford, and it’s important to be aware that you’ll do. For international students, as well as the extra need to pay both university fees (which cover your costs of travelling to the UK, you also need to bear tuition) and college fees (for college facilities). Each in mind the impact on fluctuations in the exchange will vary according to your course. DPhil students rate on your savings or funding. are liable for a set number of years, after which they cease to pay tuition. For many students, the costs of studying will be at least partly met through There are a number of hardship funds available a research grant or scholarship. The University offers a combined fees to help you cope with unexpected financial calculator and funding search on its website problems. The first stop is to find out whether h t t p : / / w w w. o x . a c . u k / f e e s a n d f u n d i n g / your college can offer you a hardship grant or search/launch/. As well as telling you the fees loan, though these will vary across colleges. If you will pay at Oxford it will also help you track you can’t obtain help from the college, there is a down any awards you may be eligible for. Make University hardship fund, usually offering no more sure you research funding as soon as possible than £2000 per award. A range of other bodies as they may have strict deadlines and distribution also offer support, details of which are on the dates. Ask your college for information on what university website. Contact student.funding@ smaller bursaries they can offer for books, travel admin.ox.ac.uk for advice if you are experiencing and so on. Finally, if you believe you have been financial hardship, or email OUSU on advice@ given the wrong fee status, you can query this ousu.org. with the Fees Panel by contacting the Fees Clerk fees.clerk@admin.ox.ac.uk.
FEES
Hardship funds
Living Costs
Employment
Obviously, one option to boost your income while studying is to take on some part-time work – The University has estimated that you will need teaching undergraduates, working in the libraries, £9,000 - £12,500 to live in Oxford, depending as a college junior Dean, work related to your field, whether you are in the city for nine or 12 months. or bar work etc. However graduate students are This is based on living in college or shared expected to do no more than 20 hours paid work accommodation, and would need to cover costs a week. Teaching undergraduates is a popular such as food, clothing, stationary, socialising etc. choice for graduates, but there are a limited However there can be other costs associated number of opportunities. Speak to your supervisor with studying that you’ll need budget for – a or departmental administrator to find out about computer, maybe specialist research software, teaching opportunities.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
graduatelife
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3_
Congratulations on coming to Oxford to do your postgraduate degree! Here is a little of what is in store...
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here is no such thing as the typical Oxford Graduate experience: the sheer breadth of subjects we study, our previous experience and the range of nationalities mean that life as a postgraduate is exciting and stimulating. The college system differentiates us from other universities, and colleges have a slightly different function for graduates than for undergraduates, since we are taught in our departments. Many graduates can live in college accommodation and colleges provide dining facilities (Hall), social events through the Middle (or Graduate) Common Room, libraries and more.
WELCOME TO UNIVERSITY
Perhaps the most important function of colleges is to give you a social space where you can meet friends and relax away from your studies. Take advantage of the events colleges and common rooms put on – special dinners, balls, bops, concerts – as they offer a welcome break to studying! Getting to know other students from a huge range of backgrounds and studying in all kinds of different fields is one of the most rewarding experiences Oxford has to offer.
Getting to know other students from a huge range of backgrounds and studying in all kinds of different fields is one of the most rewarding experiences Oxford has to offer. Your departments (and the divisions they sit within) also offer the opportunity to get involved in more than just compulsory classes and private study. Look out for lectures, special seminars and skills training workshops that students are welcome to attend. There are also a wide range of student-led interdisciplinary discussion groups you can go along to – ask your department for groups that may be useful.
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Your department should also have an academic representation structure in place so that it is responsive to the academic needs of people on your course. Many departments will have elections for course representatives at the start of the year. Being a rep is a great way of getting to know your department and your colleagues, as well as an opportunity to shape the provision you get as a postgraduate student. OUSU’s Freshers’ Fair is a good place to find out about the the sports clubs and student societies you can get involved with. There really is a society for everyone at Oxford – a huge range of sports, cultural societies, political societies, newspapers and journals, debating societies and discussion forums, and volunteering. Your College will also have friendly sports teams to get involved with. Your MCR also offers opportunities to relax, or unwind. The physical MCR, like college bars, is a place to catch up with people, while MCR events can include ‘welfare teas’ (tea and cake and friendly company), trips to art museums or the theatre and bops – cheap drinks, loud music and fancy dress themes. If there’s nothing that catches your eye, suggest something new to your MCR committee or organise it yourself! Standing for election for your MCR committee is a great way to get to know people and play an active part in college life. A word of warning: life in Oxford can be exciting and busy, but it can also be tough. Graduates can feel isolated at times, particularly if you’re far from home, or it’s been a while since you were a student. If you find that you’re having difficulties, don’t worry, there is lots of support at hand – get in touch with your common room President or welfare officer to find out what’s going on in college, speak to your college advisor or contact the student advice service at OUSU (advice@ousu.org) if you want to discuss your concerns. The pressure of graduate study at Oxford means that stress can be common, but the most important thing to remember is that help is on offer, and it’s best to ask before things get too difficult.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
britishculture
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A brief guide to how to get to grips with British culture.
FOOD
Meat, fish, eggs and potatoes are staple foods in Britain. Potatoes, whether baked, boiled, fried or roasted, accompany almost every meal. Breads, pies, pastries, soups and salads are also easily available, as are a variety of vegetables. For lunch, sandwiches are very popular, as are baked potatoes (a big potato with a filling). Many foreigners tend to find British food not as salty or spiced as that cooked at home. But fret not! Modern British food reflects the diversity of the people who live here. Curry, for example, rivals fish and chips as one of the most popular dishes in Britain today. Oxford offers a variety of choices. There are plenty of Indian and Chinese restaurants, as well as others that serve French and Indian food. Many students also eat at the several Japanese and Thai restaurants in Oxford. Vegetarian options are widely available, in pubs, restaurants and college halls.
DRINK
Britain is a huge tea drinking nation. Scour the supermarket shelves and the type and variety of tea will astound and amaze you. From the regular to earl grey (flavoured with bergamot), lady grey, white tea with peach, green tea in an assortment of permutations, lapsang, darjeeling and this is just the supermarket selection. This love of tea, even in hot weather, for which it is proven to have a cooling effect, originates from the British colonization of India, and the discovery of tea there. For a culture that cannot grow tea on its shores, the British sure drink a lot of it! In the UK traditional beer is different to anywhere else in the world. The drink that most nationalities would call beer is actually lager (like Carlsberg, Fosters, Stella etc). Ale is generally darker in colour, far less bubbly and served at room temperature or just below. There are literally hundreds of different brands of beer in the UK and every pub will have its own selection. It is usually only about 4-5% alcohol and served in pints or half pints.
4_LIVING IN THE UK
Cider is another popular alcoholic drink in Britain. This is a drink made from apples served in pints or half pints. You can get either ‘dry’ or ‘sweet’ cider, and each has its own unique taste. It is usually served ice cold and is very refreshing on a hot day. Pubs are quintessentially British: you can find them in or near every village, town and city in Britain. But don’t worry if you don’t drink alcohol, you can still enjoy a trip to the pub! All pubs serve nonalcoholic drinks, snacks, and will generally serve lunch and dinner. Going to the pub is a common social activity among students and central to British social life.
WEATHER Oxford weather is typical of weather in the United Kingdom and can be quite unpredictable at times. The summer months of May, June, July, August and September are generally the warmest, with the most days of fine, sunny weather. When you arrive in the UK, the weather will be changeable. In Autumn there are some lovely warm days when the sun shines, and you do not need a coat. However, the weather is equally likely to be cool, and it will become colder throughout your first term. During the winter months of November, December, January and February, Oxford’s weather is often fine and mild, with crisp clear days and sunny weather. However, winter is the wettest season with Oxford’s most changeable weather. Frequent wet weather can often make it seem colder, and you will need several warm items, a waterproof coat, sturdy shoes and an umbrella. You are also likely to experience snow, frost and near freezing temperatures. Spring weather is fairly mild during March, April and May, although some days may be rainy and windy. Many of the trees begin to flower at this time of the year and Oxford’s parks and gardens are filled with spring colour. Predicting the weather in Britain is an impossible task but one thing is certain: after your time in the UK you will be unable to prevent yourself from bringing the weather into every conversation come rain or shine!
CULTURE SHOCK
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The term ‘culture shock’ is simply a way of describing the range of feelings or emotions experienced by anyone who leaves a familiar culture to live in a different and less familiar culture. Homesickness, irritability, confusion, nervousness, stress, fear, anxiety, and excitement are among the most common. For some, culture shock might negatively affect concentration or sleep. Some culture shock is normal and almost unavoidable. For most people it is temporary and nothing to worry about. It is experienced to some extent by almost everyone who lives, works, studies, or travels abroad for any length of time, and regardless of whether or not they are leaving their home country for the first time. In some cases though, international students might face academic or social problems related to culture shock. Students’ mental and physical health is taken very seriously in Britain and you can expect plenty of help if any is needed.You can go to your tutor, your college nurse, JCR or MCR welfare officers or peer supporters, the Student Advice Service, the International Office, the Counselling Service, or of course, other international students. Knowing what to expect should help to reduce any anxiety you may have about your stay in the UK. Keep an open mind and try to understand British customs and etiquette. Always ask if you are not sure what to do or if you don’t understand something. Remember that it might take time to become comfortable using English, if it is not your first language. Being a truly international institution, Oxford boasts a number of national and cultural societies, as well as the International Students’ Campaign. These are definitely good places to turn to for help when faced with cultural shock or homesickness. Don’t be afraid to ask. Above all, remember that you are not alone. Most international students go through the same experiences. It might be hard to believe in the beginning, but it is only a matter of time before you adjust and feel at home here. Also, remember, the initial challenges you face here will only make the experience more rewarding!
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
banking
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You’ll find plenty of accounts to suit your needs as an international student and advice to keep control of your finances.
CHOOSING A BANK ACCOUNT
Managing your money when you study in the UK is much easier with a UK bank account. There are a number of banks to choose from, many of which have branches in Oxford’s city centre. Both the British Bankers Association and the Money Advice Service have produced documents which offer helpful comparisons of the accounts available to you as an international student. You can access these comparisons via UCKISA’s website at http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/ bank_account.php (see the links under ‘How do I open a bank account in the UK?’).
Opening an account
The easiest way to get more information about your bank account options once you’re in Oxford is to visit the information fair at the University’s European and International Student Orientation.
You will usually need to make an appointment at a bank in order to open an account. The bank will confirm what you need to bring, but the standard documents required are your passport, visa, Oxford Enrolment Certificate (which you can access online by logging into your Student Self Service account You can withdraw at www.ox.ac.uk/students), proof of your UK address money from cash (eg. invoice from college or a bill) and your offer letters points when you arrive. from your department and college. You may also need a Make sure your home bank statement less than three months old which covers bank knows you are a minimum of a one-month period and is translated into leaving the country English. Your account will usually be active (assuming there and want to make are no problems) right after your appointment, though you withdrawls in the UK. will usually have to wait a few days to receive your debit card.
Using your account
Most banks in the UK are open from 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, and some are also open on Saturday mornings. All banks are closed on UK public holidays called ‘Bank Holidays’. If you have a debit card for your account, you can use cash machines (or ATMs) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You should ask both your home bank and your UK bank about the best ways to transfer money from one account to the other. Companies such as Western Union (www.westernunion.co.uk) and PayPal (www.paypal.co.uk) can also be helpful for sending money between countries. If you’re sending or receiving over £250, look into using the Post Office (http://tinyurl.com/74r3qtq) as they don’t charge fees for transfers between £250 and £300,000.
4_LIVING IN THE UK
CYCLING Oxford is a fairly compact city and most places in central Oxford are within walking distance. However, if you would like to speed up travel time you might want to consider joining the ranks of the vast population of Oxford cyclists. Many roads in Oxford, especially in the City Centre, have designated cycle lanes. It is illegal for cyclists to run red lights and you must use lights at night. Local police frequently set up checkpoints and there is a fine for cycling without lights. Bike parking is available everywhere, but make sure you get a strong lock as bike theft is common.
BUSES & TAXIS Local buses are mostly operated by the Oxford Bus Company and by Stagecoach. Fares are expensive and are charged by distance (pay the driver when boarding: change is available). If you plan on making more than two trips in one day, buy an all-day pass to save money. The main hubs for local buses are the rail station and St Aldates. If you are in town a while, there is also a rechargable smart-card that gives discount on bus fares. A monthly travel pass from either of these companies costs around £30. The OUSU Safety Bus, also known as the Night Bus, is a volunteer-run scheme, set up to provide a safe and affordable means of transport late at night. To use the Safety Bus, call 07714445050 between 9pm and 3am Monday to Saturday and between 9pm to 1am on Sunday; the bus will pick you up from, and deliver you to, any destination within the ring road for a £1 donation. Oxford has metered taxis which can be flagged down from the street or taken from taxi stands located around the city, as well as ‘minicabs’ which must be ordered by phone. Meter taxis are quite pricey but are convenient for short hops if travelling in a big group. Minicabs are much cheaper for long-distance journeys.
GETTING AWAy National Express www.nationalexpress. co.uk provides UK-wide coach services. You can buy your ticket in their office at Gloucester Green coach station, from the driver or online. If
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you plan to use it often, consider getting a coach card, which will save you at least 20% on every journey. The railway system in Britain is expensive and unreliable compared to those in mainland Europe. National Rail Enquiries: http://www. nationalrail.co.uk/ is the best way to find the connection and price you want. Buy tickets at thetrainline.com, which charges extra but is reliable. If you intend to travel by rail frequently, apply for a 16-25 railcard, which will save you a third off of the price on every trip. Travelling through Europe is still international travel, and it is important that students who want to go somewhere new are prepared. Before travelling outside of the UK, you should first check whether a visa is needed to do so. Most countries will have tourism websites that will tell you whether you will be able to visit without a visa. Flying is usually the cheapest option for travelling in Europe. The earlier you book your flight, the cheaper your ticket will be. Easyjet (http://www.easyjet.com) and Ryanair (www.ryanair.com) are the most popular low fare airlines. You can also get the ISIC or IYTC student card to get discounts on your European travels. Each card costs about £9 and can be used to buy discounted flights, accommodation and other tourist services. Both are available from STA Travel, 36 George Street in Oxford, or online at www.statravel.co.uk. You can also apply for an NUS Extra card through OUSU (£10/year), which doubles as an ISIC card. Also, if home is outside the EU, ordering tickets before leaving for Oxford from raileurope.com for cheaper tickets.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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staying
Here are just a few of the ways you can stay in touch with loved ones
Mobile phones
Picking a plan
You can buy a new mobile phone or just a UK SIM card if you have a phone from home you plan to use. However, be sure and check with your mobile phone provider about whether your phone can accept international SIM cards.
You can choose between a pay as you go plan (which allows you to add minutes/texts/data to your phone whenever you run out) or a contract (which allows you to pay on a monthly basis for a set number of minutes).
A SIM card is a small card inside a phone that holds data associated with a particular phone number. Having data stored on a SIM card allows you to switch phones but keep the same phone number and list of contacts.
Adding minutes/texts/data is called a ‘top-up’. You can top up your phone online, over the phone, at a cash machine/ATM, or at many corner shops and supermarkets.
If you would like to use your phone from home but cannot unlock it yourself, there are shops in Oxford that will do this for about £20-£25. Your phone must be a GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) device to work in the UK (check whether your phone is listed at www.gsmarena. com). Unlocking your phone allows you to use a SIM card from any phone company rather than having to use the one originally assigned to your phone. There are a number of mobile phone providers available in Oxford, all of which have similar coverage and rates. The most popular ones (in no particular order) are O2, Orange, Vodafone, Virgin, 3, and T-Mobile. Visiting a shop like Carphone Warehouse (located in Cornmarket Street) that offers plans with different providers can be helpful.
4_LIVING IN THE UK
A contract usually requires you to sign up for a minimum amount of time (which can be up to 24 months) and provide details of a UK bank account and proof of your UK address. This can sometimes be difficult for international students to arrange until they have opened a bank account. Also, if you do not have a UK credit track record, you might have to pay an additional fee (which is usually refundable after a certain number of months with no late payments). While all contracts require monthly payments for phone service, each handles the cost of the phone differently. Some require no payment for the phone upfront but monthly payments afterwards; others require you to pay part of the cost of the phone up front and the rest by monthly payments; and some require you to pay the entire cost of the phone up front. The latter option are called ‘SIM only contracts’ and are usually the most cost-effective option. Always ask the phone company about rates for international calls and texts before you sign up. Don’t forget that you are not charged for incoming calls (including international ones), only outgoing ones.
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Calling cards
You can buy prepaid international calling cards at most local newsagents. It’s really important to look for hidden charges on these before purchasing them.
International dialling codes When you call home, dial the number in this order: 00 + country code + home number When someone from home calls you, they will need to dial: International access code + 44 (the UK country code) + your number In both cases, any leading zeroes from phone numbers should be left off when using international access codes and country codes. For example, to dial the UK number 01865 999999 from outside the UK, you would dial: International access code + 44 + 1865 999999. You can find international access codes and country codes by searching for your country under the ‘International Codes’ tab at www.thephonebook.bt.com.
Skype
The cheapest (and often most convenient) option for international students to use for calling and texting home is Skype. Skype is free to download and can be used anywhere where you have a wifi connection. Similar to mobile phones, Skype has both pay as you go and subscription (the equivalent of a contract) plans, both of which have really good rates – even compared to mobile phones. More information is available at www.skype.com.
Post
The central post office is located in St. Aldates, however, there are smaller post offices in Walton Street, Woodstock Road, and Cowley Road. More information about different posting options is available at www. royalmail.com. If you plan to send anything internationally via Royal Mail, you must first check the size and weight restrictions at http://tinyurl.com/723lepe. You can also send parcels internationally through DHL (at Ryman in Queen Street or Staples in Park End Street), ParcelForce (www.parcelforce.com) or UPS (at Mailboxes Etc. in Summertown or Headington). The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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campaigns&
committees
The Oxford University Student Union Campaigns promote issues and organisations that OUSU Council has chosen to support. There are eight autonomous campaigns: Mature Students’ Campaign, Students with Disabilities Campaign, Women’s Campaign, Campaign for Racial Awareness and Equality, Living Wage Campaign, International Students’ Campaign, LGBTQ Campaign, and Mind your Head (Mental Health Awareness). Committees include Target Schools and Environment and Ethics. There is also the charitable arm, RAG (Raise and Give). Each autonomous Campaign has its own constitution, is financially supported by the Student Union, can make and implement its own policy and has a vote at OUSU Council. The campaigns exist to ensure that there is always a space in the democratic structure where students concerned about issues relevant to these campaigns have a safe and supportive environment in which to discuss these issues. The following section gives a brief introduction to some of these campaigns. For more information go to www.ousu.org/campaigns.
MATURE STUDENTS’ CAMPAIGN
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y definition, a mature student is anyone who is over the age of 21 when they matriculate or start their undergraduate degree (or 25 for graduate student). But there is no clear line as it depends more on your own feelings. An undergraduate at the age of 23 may think he/she is a mature student whilst a graduate at the age of 25 may not. While most Mature Students will have similar needs to their younger counterparts, often it’s worth the University considering what else can be provided for them, which is why OUSU has the Mature Students’ Campaign. Age is not a barrier for your education. Mature Students can take advantage of their skills, motivation and life experience. The Mature Students’ Campaign, like the other autonomous campaigns, is free to set its own direction, come up with its own policies and campaign for whatever it sees as the most important issues facing Mature Students. It also provides a social space for Mature Students to come together and find others in similar situations, offering coffee mornings, afternoon teas and other social events. These events aim to be fun social occasions, but also opportunities to feed in any ideas or concerns you may have about life in Oxford. Mature Students are supported within OUSU by the VP (Graduates) and by the Part-Time Executive Officer for Mature Students. If you have any questions or want to get involved with the committee, you can email graduates@ousu.org. There’s also a Mature Students mailing list, so sign up to this at Freshers’ Fair or email maturestudents@ousu.org to get notices about events for Mature Students.
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SWD - STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
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T
he Students with Disabilities (SWD) Campaign is a group of interested students who represent the needs and aspirations of students with disabilities within the University. The campaign meets regularly during term-time to organise events, and to discuss disability issues. The SWD Campaign has become a place where students with very different disabilities come together to talk about their experiences and they often have very interesting and inspiring discussions. The main activity of the SWD Campaign is organising Disability Awareness Week, which will take place this year in 6th Week of Michaelmas Term. The aim of Disability Awareness Week is to increase awareness among students and staff alike of both the challenges and the strengths of students with disabilities in Oxford and to change traditional perceptions of disability. We also work to make sure that students with disabilities are fully informed of the support available to them in Oxford. We are always looking for new students to be part of the campaign so if you are interested in issues of disability – whether or not you have a disability – come along and get involved! Email welfare@ousu.org for more information.
whether or not you have a disability - come along and get involved
womcam - WOMEN’s campaign
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omen’s Campaign is a thriving autonomous liberation campaign that represents women students and is the main hub of feminist/gender equality activity. Lots of areas of Oxford life suffer from an under-representation of women: this campaign is about getting the voices of female students heard. We have many regular events but mainly take our lead from our members and what they think is important. Some meetings are open only to self-identified women (we’re trans friendly), but most are open to everyone. We have a diverse membership who share the aim of making Oxford a better place for women. We meet every week to discuss our experiences and use this to take action and pass policy. This policy acts as a statement of the collective beliefs of the campaign and gives the committee a mandate to act on behalf of it. Previous examples include sexual harassment, body politics and intersectionality. Additionally, we attend protests and demonstrations that we care about. We recognise that it is a long road to gender equality, but also appreciate our relative privilege and recognise how sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, class, ethnicity and age intersect with gender in our world. For more information email womensofficer@ousu.org or women@ousu.org. The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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CRAE - CAMPAIGN FOR RACIAL AWARENESS & EQUALITY
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he Campaign for Racial Awareness and Equality (CRAE) aims to improve and support student experience at university, as well as foster awareness of diversity and difference. It aims to make the Oxford University community an inclusive and welcoming one for people of all racial and cultural backgrounds. This year CRAE is launching several new campaigns such as an ‘Aim High’ conference featuring famous faces from sport, the media and beyond, to inspire young students. It will also coordinate Oxfords’ Black History Month which will include guest lectures, film screenings and comedy nights with well known public faces. CRAE is a safe space within which people can freely talk about hard and often silenced issues. By becoming involved with CRAE you can have a huge influence to improve student experience, organising events from food evenings and conferences to concerts with international artists and speaker evenings; while working with national think tanks, researchers, and equality organisations.We really encourage everyone to get involved in this dynamic, engaging and necessary project. For more information, contact craechair@ousu.org.
LIVING WAGE CAMPAIGN
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hat connects the scout who cleans your room, the porter who guards your college and the Tesco employee who works in the UK’s biggest retailer? It may be that they’re being paid a wage that equates to poverty pay… The Living Wage Campaign believes that the National Minimum Wage of £6.08 per hour is not enough for workers in Oxford to provide their families with the essentials of life. In partnership with workers, academics and community groups, the Living Wage Campaign empowers students to fight for improved pay and conditions for low-paid employees in the University and wider community. Over the past year a number of colleges have agreed to pay their employees at least the living wage of £7.20 per hour and we need your help to ensure that the University and the remaining colleges sign up too! The majority of London based Universities, the University of Manchester and numerous UK based banks and organisations pay a living wage, so why not Oxford? If you’re someone who wants to have a lasting impact in the lives of people you interact with every day, the Living Wage Campaign is for you. For more information email livingwage@ousu.org.
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ CAMPAIGN
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T
he International Students’ Campaign (ISC) is one of the six autonomous, equal opportunities campaigns of the Oxford University Students Union (OUSU). We are a student-run organisation committed to representing and improving the welfare of the over 6,500 international students from 139 different countries at our University. We understand how hectic and bewildering it is upon arrival at Oxford and one of our key objectives is to make the transition easier. Our projects include the Insurance Workshop for International Students, the ice cream and Brownie night and the annual Oxford International Festival. Attendees last year included Professor Andrew Hamilton, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Oxford, and Loren Griffith, the Acting Director of International Strategy, both of whom praised the extravagant festival that took place in the historical rooms of the Examination School. Written by the ISC committee members, the International Freshers’ Guide contains all the essential information for international students to help them get ready and settle into their new surroundings. Furthermore, the ISC holds intercollegiate Welfare Pizza nights to unify international students from different colleges. Another major project that the ISC has been involved with is the International Access Scheme, which recruits student volunteers to give presentations back in their respective high schools at home to encourage applications to the University of Oxford from under-represented countries. For more information email ISCchair@ousu.org.
LGBTQ CAMPAIGN - lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans & queer
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he LGBTQ Campaign is the political campaigning arm of Oxford’s queer community. As an autonomous campaign, it is supported by OUSU both financially and through the LGBTQ Officer but is free to form its own policy and choose which issues to focus on. In the past year, the campaign has been working on improving the experience of trans students at Oxford by investigating the current policy on name and gender marker changes, working towards relaxing subfusc rules, and making common room events more inclusive. As well as continuing with these, we plan to work on making sure new buildings have genderneutral facilities, and unnecessary gender boxes on forms are removed. In the past, we have campaigned against the blood donation ban and produced an ‘It Gets Better’ video. We also mobilised to protest against a conference held in Oxford by a homophobic organisation. Anyone is welcome to join in, or bring new ideas and causes to the table, so get involved! For more information email us at LGBTQchair@ousu.org.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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E&E CAMPAIGn - Environment & ETHICS
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he E&E Campaign is the largest environmentally focused group in the University. Our goals are to make the University a greener, more ethical place, to support individuals in their efforts to reduce their own carbon footprint and to contribute towards solving national and international problems facing the environment, international development and rights abuses. People from all backgrounds at the University get involved in our campaigns, from college reps to passionate freshers, graduates studying in the field and other people who just want to help make a difference. Our recent efforts have tackled issues at every level. Our ‘Recycling for Honours’ scheme audited recycling provision across colleges and led to vast improvements in facilities available to students. We also campaigned successfully to ensure that clothes bearing the University crest were no longer manufactured in sweatshops. More recently we have produced a guide to organising ‘sustainable’ events and worked in partnership with Ben and Jerry’s to raise awareness of fair trade products. However, it’s not all just work. We throw garden parties for our members and guests, we hold seminars and speaker events every term and above all, we have fun! See you when term begins! For more information email eande.chair@ousu.org.
mind your head CAMPAIGN
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he Mind Your Head Campaign is designed to increase awareness of mental illness among students, as well as encouraging students to consider their mental wellbeing and take steps to improve it. It is difficult enough to live with a mental health problem, and the campaign aims to get rid of the stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental illness. The Mind Your Head Campaign is a relatively new campaign, having been founded in October 2011, but it has made rapid progress. The Campaign’s main activity has been in organising awareness-raising events in JCRs and MCRs, bringing students into contact with other students who have had mental health problems. We also run a website; mindyourheadoxford.wordpress.com, where students can submit articles about their experience of mental illness in Oxford. The Campaign also organised the inaugural Mind Your Head Week in Trinity 2012. This week included a number of events designed to promote wellbeing and encourage students to explore different ideas about mental health, including a meditation workshop, film screenings and speaker events. If you are passionate about mental health, or if you just want to learn more about the campaign, email MYHchair@ousu.org to get involved.
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TARGET SCHOOLS
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ounded by OUSU in 1982,Target Schools aims to inspire and support able prospective students who might be put off by damaging myths and stereotypes. Target Schools is student-led and responsible both for coordinating undergraduate volunteers who wish to do school visits and for running Oxford’s only shadowing scheme. Being student-led we feel that we can give a unique perspective on access issues whilst also making sure the content of access campaigns remain accessible and relevant. We want it to be easy and worthwhile to get involved: we run training sessions called ‘Target Schools Teas’ (with free food and drink!) where we aim to help you develop your public speaking skills - and there is only the need to attend one during your time at Oxford. If you’re interested in getting involved then come and talk to us at the Freshers’ Fair or simply sign up at http://db.targetschoolsoxford.com. For more information email us at target@ousu.org or visit www.targetschoolsoxford.com.
RAG
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aise And Give is the Student Union’s charitable fundraising organisation and the society that has it all. Sporting tournaments, hitch-hikes, talent shows, bungee jumping, Blind Dates, club nights, a casino, street collections in fancy dress and the prestigious RAG Ball, to name a few! RAG endeavours to orchestrate all this fun and more in the name of charity and all you have to do is take part. The money we raise goes to a number of local and national charities elected by students every year. Our charities for this year are Jacari, Helen and Douglas House, Crisis Skylight Oxford and The Against Malaria Foundation. We try and keep our charities at the heart of our work and they’re always happy to have students see first hand what a difference they make with talks, seminars and site visits. There are loads of ways to get involved with RAG, we meet weekly in the Student Union with our reps and have committee meetings where we plan upcoming events. Former members of the RAG exec have used their skills to go onto work in the charities sector, the civil service, event management and the city but most importantly they leave Oxford knowing that they’ve used their time to make a difference in the world, and had a whale of a time doing it! For more information contact RAG at rag. president@ousu.org. The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
theunion
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Coming up to Oxford is an exciting experience, but it won’t be complete without joining Oxford’s biggest and best student society - the Oxford Union.
The Union has hosted world leaders in virtually every field, ranging from Ronald Reagan to Her Majesty the Queen, from Michael Jackson to Kim Catrall, from Imran Khan to Sir Steve Redgrave and from the Dalai Lama to Desmond Tutu. More recently we have had speakers as varied as Shakira, David Miliband Russell Brand, Sir John Major, Sir Ian McKellen, General Petraeus, Lang Lang, Bill Nighy, Zoe Wanamaker, Theresa May and Johnny Depp. Founded in 1823, the Union is rich in history. We were established to protect and uphold the principles of free speech among students at a time when they were being severely challenged,
such as our famous annual Michaelmas opener, ‘This House Has No Confidence in Her Majesty’s Government’. The debating chamber is regularly packed. This Michaelmas is looking particularly exciting, with world class debates and incredible speaker meetings already filled with Cabinet Ministers, front bench opposition and celebrities from all walks of life. Check out our website at www.oxford-union.org to find out more and keep up to date with our busy calendar. The Union has always been a very international institution welcoming a number of world-famous speakers from outside Britain. A number of Union Committee members are international students, including me. We are hosting a free drinks party for international students on Tuesday 9th October. Our bar is also one of the cheapest and most atmospheric while our library remains a significant lending library with key educational texts alongside an extensive fiction and recreational reading and a varied DVD collection. Our Treasurer’s Treats also offer multiple members discounts at stores across Oxford. The membership fee can seem a bit steep at first, but it works out at just over £1 a week throughout your time at Oxford, and crucially it is membership for life. The Union really is a unique and extraordinary society, so don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity by joining now.. See you soon!
and to this day the Union remains the only student run society in Oxford entirely independent of the University. Debating remains at the heart of the society. Every Thursday evening during term distinguished John Lee guests come to argue for and against motions President
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...the only central venue for Oxford students
...where else? 41
*when you join during Freshers’ Fortnight
www.oxford-union.org
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
clubs&
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societies W
ith more than 400 groups to choose from, your time at Oxford will never be dull. There are so many – not just for music and sports but literature, politics, performing arts, media, faiths, cultural groups, opportunities for volunteering and more – that it can be a challenge to decide which to join. Whatever your level of expertise, you can become involved in any club or society that interests you. If a society or team does not exist, you can find support for setting one up. The annual OUSU Freshers’ Fair at the start of the first term is an ideal opportunity to find out what is available.
academic There are a huge range of clubs and societies focused on enhancing the academic and career opportunities available to students. Here is a selection to get you started...
Oxford Medical Students’ Society (MedSoc) aims to provide academic and welfare support for all students in the medical sciences. The MedSoc committee will provide key academic resources and help students connect with University staff. The society is also notorious for its excellent social events, which provide a brilliant opportunity to 6_CLUBS & SOCIETIES
relax in an otherwise hectic academic calendar. MedSoc also has its own sports teams that allow medics to train and socialise with each other and compete against other medical schools. Females in Engineering, Science and Technology (OxFEST) is a society for women who are studying or working in engineering, science and technology within the University and its associated institutes. OxFEST aims to promote and encourage women in their scientific careers by providing key resources and information; networking opportunities and a support network comprised of role models, mentors and peers; and a whole range of social events often held in conjunction with prominent members of the scientific community.
Oxford University History Society (OUHS) is famed for its excellent speaker events and incredibly popular formal socials. Every term OUHS boasts an impressive termcard packed full with some of the most influential historians of the moment. OUHS is a place for anyone interested in history or current events. Oxford University Law Society (LawSoc) is one of the largest student societies in Oxford. It is run by students but works in conjunction with The Faculty of Law and The Careers Service. LawSoc hosts regular speaker events and provides excellent opportunities for students to network with leading legal firms. The society also supports those students interested in entering the bar with various events to help with members’ mooting skills. LawSoc runs a termly essay competition in conjunction with its hugely successful magazine. The society is also famed for holding some of the most popular and successful social events in Oxford. CapitOx is one of the University’s most popular finance orientated societies. The society aims to ignite interest in the financial world by hosting a series of thought-provoking events. These events include training in crucial skills, as well as core networking with employers of the financial industries. The organisation is structured into four main divisions: CapitOx Banking, CapitOx Investment, CapitOx Consulting and CapitOx Actuaries. The society is sponosored by some of the leading financial firms and has close links with The Careers Service. The Oxford Investment & Finance Society (OIFS) is the largest University-based organisation that provides information on the role of the financial services sector and related fields. The society aims to provide its members with the foundation skills and relationships to develop successful financial careers. By establishing links with financial firms, the society aims to provide information about key
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firms and contacts within this sector, helping to fulfil its members’ career aspirations. It also aims to bring like-minded individuals together, hosting a wide range of events every term.
Oxford Entrepreneurs’ mission is to encourage and support student entrepreneurship by providing inspiration, education, networking and the chance to learn the skills needed to succeed in business and start entrepreneurial ventures. The society hosts top speakers, extensive workshops and provides a place to meet like-minded students through its lavish social events. It allows students to run a company while they study and get the support and advice needed all entirely for free. Oxford Women in Business (OxWIB) is designed to empower enterprising women of Oxford University to expand and sharpen their understanding of business and entrepreneurship. It aims to promote these women and help them develop the skills to become future leaders. OxWIB aims to create a platform for students to openly address the issues concerning women in the business sectors. It also hopes to provide key networking opportunities, as well as crucial skills training to help its members succeed after the completion of their academic academic study.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
charity
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There are a wealth of good causes to get involved with during your time at Oxford. Here are just a few ideas to keep you busy...
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n the city in which Oxfam was founded there’s no better place to get involved in charity work and volunteering. Oxford offers so many different ways to get involved, no matter what your cause or your passion. The amazing friends you’ll make along the way mean that the time spent volunteering will be the best of your University experience. The opportunities are diverse and this page won’t be able to list them all, but here’s a quick blitz through the sorts of things on offer. All of them will be featured in the charities and volunteering section at Fresher’s Fair.
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If you’re passionate about fundraising, Oxford Raise And Give (RAG) is the place to go (see page 29). RAG raises money through social events, sponsorship challenges and street collections and gives its money to four charities elected each year by the student body in February. Those of you that want to campaign to make a difference in the wider world have a whole group of organisations that welcome new members all the time. Environmental groups such as E&E (see page 28) rub shoulders with student groups of NGOs such as Amnesty International, UNICEF and Oxfam. Oxford students have also set up their own campaigning groups on topics such as HIV/AIDS, human rights in the developing world, international relations and public health. Hands-on volunteers are spoilt for choice. Local schools take in volunteers for maths, science, geography and literature tuition in addition to helping children to read who don’t speak English as a first language. The elderly aren’t forgotten either with a handful of student-run volunteering groups working in the local community. OxGrow and the Oxford Green Project allow the green fingered to grow their own vegetables and help with the upkeep of nature conservations. There are also opportunities for youth work, music making and performing arts to be used as a tool for social change. For a full listing of the volunteering opportunities go to www.oxfordhub.org.uk.
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Connecting students with causes
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xford Hub is the place to go if you are interested in social action of any sort. Whether you’re passionate about human rights, international development, environment and sustainability issues, social enterprise or community volunteering, Oxford Hub has something for you. We aim to connect you with other students who are passionate about similar causes, help you to get inspired through our range of conferences and events and offer exciting opportunities for you to get involved and lead projects. We also work to help set up groups that are sustainable, responsible, and efficient, and to connect existing groups so that they can share best practice and work collaboratively. If this is your sort of thing, sign up to our mailing list at www.oxfordhub.org. Once a week we send out a newsletter, The Week, with a rundown of opportunities to volunteer, campaign and fundraise, vacancies for jobs and internships with charities, NGOs, and social enterprises, inspiring The focal point of Oxford Hub’s activities is our events related to social issues, and all of the building right in the centre of town on Turl Street. training you’ll need to make a real difference. Our four story building hosts our sustainable bar/café/restaurant, The Turl Street Kitchen, our purpose-designed ethical library, a cosy living room and events/meeting space for many of things on the Oxford Hub programme. We’re open nearly all day, every day so whether you just want a nice spot to hang out and grab a coffee, or if you’re coming to attend an event advertised on The Week, or if you just want to pop in find out more (find us on the second floor!) then we’d love to see you. Our staff and student committee will almost always be around and are happy to have a chat. We hope to see you soon!
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
drama
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G
Take centre stage and give drama a go!
etting involved with drama is easy, whether you’re a dedicated thespian, a tech-head or happy in the peanut gallery. Look out for Freshers Drinks in 1st Week to start getting to know people and figuring out what interests you. College Cuppers is your first stop this year: write, produce, direct and/or act in your own piece and compete with other troupes and colleges. The drama scene caters for all talent levels and styles, and if you’re not happy with what’s available there are plenty of ways of starting up your own project. There are two main societies to watch out for: Oxford University Drama Society (OUDS) and Oxford University Theatre Technicians and Designers (TAFF).
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Get involved in OUDS if you act, produce, direct, or aspire to any of the above. You’ll find many around you from all levels of talent and experience, and plenty of ways to express your inner thesp. There’s an OUDS summer tour every year which brings a student production to new and exciting places, such as Japan or the USA. Have a look at www.ouds.org or email freshers@ ouds.org to get set up with an OUDS parent, a current member of OUDS who can help you get involved with all the exciting things going on. If you’re seriously considering a career in the arts (or just have loads of talent) you have promising precedent: both Anna Popplewell and Hugh Grant were members of OUDS.
TAFF (initially founded as Tabs are for Flying – apparently an in-joke of the founders) is where you want to be if you’re a lighting, set or costume designer, stage manager or any other person who invisibly makes the cogs of the business turn (generally branded ‘techie’). You’re the one responsible for making a 19 year-old look 50 and straight out of the Victorian era, the stage resemble an Amazonian forest and the whole thing bright enough for the audience to be able to tell. For the classicists amongst you there exists the Classic Drama Society, which promotes classical works on stage. Auditions and availabilities for all shows are advertised via Facebook, the Drama Officer’s mailing list and are also on the respective societies’ websites. Another great way of getting involved is to become a theatre reviewer: write for the Oxford Theatre Review (OTR), the Oxford Student drama section or the Cherwell stage section and get free tickets to previews and opening nights in exchange for a few hundred critical words. If you just love the theatre, you’re one of those precious members of the public who allows this whole industry to work by filling a seat at performances. To find out what’s on, look in the student papers (Drama/Stage sections), sign up to the Drama Officer’s mailing list or just keep an eye out on Facebook. You’ll soon get used to the drama posters peppered over town, advertising
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next week’s shows. Local venues include The Burton Taylor Studio (BT) which offers a tight-knit atmosphere with 50 seats. Great if you want to get close to the actors or are on a budget – the average student ticket price is £5. The BT often privileges pieces of new writing, so get down to the Playhouse backdoor for some theatre you’re guaranteed no one has ever seen before! The O’Reilly is set in Keble College with 180 seats in varying designs. A great place to see both Shakespeare and musicals, it won’t break the bank at £6-£8 tickets depending on the performance. The Simpkins Lee Theatre is a new 137 seater, tucked away in Lady Margaret Hall. This recently opened theatre has hosted a variety of shows and is rapidly establishing itself as an alternative to the O’Reilly. And finally the big one - the Oxford Playhouse. All performances here can fill 250 seats for each night they run (often Wednesday - Saturday, with Thursday and Saturday matinees). The size of the stage and technicalities mean features can include a real-size dining room, a forest or masses of fake snow falling from the ceiling. Tickets are normally around £10. Professional performances are also produced here; just pick up a program from their reception at the beginning of term to see what’s on. Other shows take place in smaller rooms in colleges or other collegebased theatres, and in warmer months many colleges produce their own garden show. Oxford also offers a full professional scene: musicals are performed regularly at the New Theatre, and there are many companies such as Creation Theatre, Oxford Theatre Guild and the Oxford Shakespeare Company which frequently put plays on in various locations in and around the city.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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Notes for budding musicians
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rom orchestral to jazz, rock to techno, there’s at least some form of music that gets you excited, and almost all of it has a society dedicated to producing it. The more ‘traditional’ music is organised by the Oxford University Music Society (or OUMS). Founded in 1872, the society has a membership approaching 2000 and plays concerts to around 6000 students, alumni and residents a year. It is one of the oldest and largest university societies. OUMS’ flagship ensemble is the Oxford University Orchestra (OUO), widely considered to be one of - if not the - best student orchestra outside of the conservatoires. They perform a termly concert in the Sheldonian Theatre on Broad Street, always under the baton of a professional, visiting conductor. Recent highlights have included Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring with Benjamin Walfisch, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 with Peter Stark and Dvorak’s Cello Concerto with Daniel Harding, featuring Steven Isserlis as the soloist. In total, OUMS runs eight ensembles (more details of which can be found at www.oums.org) including (amongst others) two orchestras, a choir, a 6_CLUBS & SOCIETIES
contemporary music group and a big band. Over the last five years, OUMS ensembles have performed in locations as far afield as Barcelona, Paris, Vienna, Delhi, Mumbai, the Montreux Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival and the Shanghai World Expo - as well as regularly in London and Cambridge. In addition to running a wide range of ensembles, the society also has a free weekly newsletter, which includes details of all the musical events going on in Oxford, whether OUMS is running them or not, and you’ll be able to sign up for this at the Freshers’ Fair, or if you miss it, at any time on the website. However, in order to play in an OUMS ensemble you’ll need to sign up for an audition at Fresher’s Fair - these take place over the weekend between 0th and 1st week. At your audition you just need to play a piece of music that demonstrates your ability, and to state which ensemble you’d like to play in. There are also a number of non-OUMS ensembles, which will also have stalls at Freshers’ Fair, and a number of College orchestras that are open to the entire University, and many of these do not require auditions. As well as more ‘traditional’ music, Oxford has great performance and listening opportunities in a huge range of genres. One of the most thriving of
these are the ‘a cappella’ groups, one of which - Out of the Blue - you may have spotted on this year’s Britain’s Got Talent. Other vocal groups include In the Pink, The Oxford Gargoyles, The Alternotives and many more, each offer a vast range of repertoire and great performance opportunities at Oxford events, including numerous college balls. For more traditional vocal pursuits, most Colleges have a chapel choir, and although some of them are world class, not all of them hold auditions. Chapel choirs sing anything from one to eight services each week, and you can sing in other College choirs. There are also several highquality, auditioning, chamber choirs, as well as others that offer a more relaxed sing and most of these will have stalls at Freshers’ Fair. The Jazz scene in Oxford is strong and still growing, with a number of exceptional players. JazzSoc runs a weekly jam session, and there are a number of University Jazz and Big Band groups, who play a number of balls and parties each year. The Oxford University Jazz Orchestra (OUJO) hold
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an annual varsity ‘jazz-off’ with their Cambridge counterparts while the Oxford University Big Band (OUBB) regularly tour and feature professional soloists. Want to be part of a band? Rocksoc is the society for anyone into alternative music such as Rock, Metal, Punk, Goth, Industrial, Emo and Ska. It’s a place to meet other people with the same musical tastes and find out about all the Rock and alternative events in Oxford. They organise gigs and social events, send out a weekly newsletter, provide services for bands and musicians, and also help to promote various alternative pubs, club nights and gigs around Oxford. As a Rocksoc member, you will receive a Rocksoc card which gets you discounts to many alternative events as well as money off G&Ds ice cream! All in all, Oxford University has a diverse music scene and there’s usually something to suit everyone. As well as the more central societies that are discussed here, don’t forget that most colleges have thriving music societies themselves.
oxideradio Tune in to Oxide, Oxford’s only student radio station
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xide Radio is Oxford University’s 100% student-run radio station, broadcasting from our studios at OUSU headquarters on Gloucester Green. Each term, we bring you the very best Oxford has to offer - music, news, chat, interviews, the lot - there’s always something to whet your aural appetite. Tuning in is easy - simply head to www. oxideradio.co.uk. Now is the perfect time to get involved too. If you’ve always had a desire to get behind a microphone, why not pitch a show idea with a friend, or come talk to us? Ron Burgundywannabes can join our News Team who create daily newscasts, or you can ask the big questions as part of the Interview Team. Our Music Team needs
people with a good ear for the next big thing to review new music, go to gigs (for free!) and compile playlists. Techies are always needed to keep Oxide on the air. We’re always looking for people to get involved - after all, it’s a lot of fun, it’s very rewarding and who knows where it could lead? Find us at Freshers’ Fair or at www. oxideradio.co.uk, and join the party!
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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international
&cultural
We investigate just a few of the endless opportunities for international students to stay connected
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nternational students play a key role in contributing to the University of Oxford’s vibrant global community. Over 130 nationalities are represented within the diverse student population. Despite being far from home, international students need not worry about feeling anxious or lonesome, as Oxford has over 40 international and cultural societies to help students feel at home and stay connected to their culture. (Don’t forget to check out the International Students Campaign). Apart from hosting cultural events, these societies run social gatherings and aim to bring together students from similar backgrounds to mix and mingle. The German Society is a dynamic organisation that connects students from German-speaking backgrounds as well as those interested in German culture, politics, and language. It organises many lectures and discussions from notable Germanspeaking public figures. Previous speakers include Stefan Krause, the Chief Financial Officer of the Deutsche Bank; and Georg Boomgaarden, the German Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Apart from speaker events, the German Society has a buzzing term card consisting of frequent film nights and weekly Stammtisch. One of the
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German Society’s most extravagant events is the annual Christmas Dinner where members gather together to enjoy a delicious meal. The Asia-Pacific Society (APS) is the largest Asian network in Oxford, containing over 700 members. Instead of focusing on bringing together students from one particular country, the APS celebrates and promotes Asian culture and serves as a platform to discuss and learn about political and economic issues concerning the Asia-Pacific region. APS’ agenda contains a variety of events, ranging from speaker events to a University-wide Asian Food Festival. Distinguished past guest speakers include Donald Tsang (the Chief Executive of Hong Kong), Anwar Ibrahim (the former Deputy Prime Minster of Malaysia), and Jackie Chan. Additionally, the APS organises
career events, such as liaising with investment firms to hold conferences. Seeking to help Australians and New Zealanders settle into university, the Oxford University Australia New Zealand Society (OUANZ) arranges a variety of delightful events throughout all three terms to allow its members to congregate and socialise. The busy term card features a welcome BBQ, film nights, speaker events, crew dates, wine tastings, and several sporting activities, such as the Melbourne Cup function and the Australian Rules Football University Championships against the University of Cambridge. Additionally, OUANZ organises events for Australia Day and coordinates with colleges to host Australia and New Zealand-themed bops! OUANZ also provides its members with information on exciting employment opportunities at home and abroad. The Oxford University Hong Kong Society (OUHKS) was founded in 1978 with the primary goal of linking students to create a close-knit and supportive community. OUHKS is unique in that it runs an orientation camp prior to the start of the academic year to help acquaint current students with incoming freshers. The social calendar also includes an annual dinner, the variety show, an Oxbridge BBQ, competitive debates, Chinese New Year celebrations and many more events. The Variety Show is the society’s most celebrated event, as it showcases the talents of its many members during an unforgettable evening of musical and theatrical performances. Oxford Chinese Students and Scholars Association (OXCSSA) has a membership database of over 1,700 undergraduates, postgraduates and academics, and includes not only Chinese nationals, but also an increasing number of other nationals, who are interested in Chinese language and culture. OXCSSA aims to achieve two main objectives: to act as a support network for our extensive membership and to be a hub for informal contact between Oxford and China. To this end, we organise many regular events such
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as Fresher welcoming events, the Spring Festival Gala, speakers events, ‘Career Month’, trips and much more. For more information email oxcssa. society@studentclubs.ox.ac.uk or refer to the website, http://www.oxcssa.org.uk. The Oxford University French Society hosts an assortment of very exciting events all year long to bring together students from Francophone backgrounds and those who are interested in learning about French culture. The society welcomes both French-speaking and non-French-
speaking members. It hosts exciting events every week, including wine and cheese receptions, performance and patisserie evenings, film nights, crew dates, casual coffee chats, cocktail parties and termly dinners! Apart from providing French food and wine tasting opportunities, the French Society also organises conversation evenings, debates, and speaker events. The European Affairs Society (EAS) is Oxford’s hub for all things European. From debates over hot topics to an appreciation of European food and drink, the EAS caters for all students with an interest in this diverse corner of the world. This also makes EAS one of the largest student societies, regularly delivering termcards packed full of exciting and inspiring events including panel discussions and seminars on a wide-ranging set of topics. Speakers are distinguished both by their calibre and their reach, from NATO Generals to World Chess Champions, from all four corners of Europe and sometimes beyond. The mix of serious discussion and cultural exploration is what makes the EAS unique in Oxford. To find out more, check out the website, www.oueas.net.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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politics Your political education starts here
E
d Miliband, Margaret Thatcher, Boris Johnson, and Nick Robinson all began their political careers in Oxford’s student political societies. This goes to show that whilst the grounding in politics you get here may not turn you into a better person, it may well take you places! Whilst it’s always worth joining in the political discussions and campaigns that relate to your college through your Common Room, or joining University-wide discussions and campaigns through the Student Union, plenty of you will be eager to join societies that debate national and international issues - and good on you! If good people don’t take up politics, it’s left to the bad ones. Founded in 1919, The Oxford University Labour Club (OULC) has a long and proud history. It has established itself as one of the most powerful for in the University for the exchange of ideas and campaigning. Instrumental in the success of Labour’s Andrew Smith in the Oxford East constituency, OULC combines drinks events and policy forums with pounding the pavements of Oxford canvassing voters. The Oxford University Conservative Association (OUCA) also has a long history. OUCA proudly claims to be one of the largest student political societies in Europe. The weekly Port and Policy events are often covered by the newspapers. They combine socialising and hearty debate with ample quantities of port, making for a lively combination. Port aside, OUCA welcomes Conservatives of all stripes. OUCA are also not to be outdone on the campaigning front, travelling around the country to spread the Conservative message to voters.
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Oxford University Liberal Democrats (OULD) provide a vibrant forum for all things Liberal. Whilst the party nationally is going through some interesting times, OULD continue to provide a space where it’s okay to be yellowy-orange. Nick Clegg may have cancelled his trip to Oxford, but Shirley Williams did not and OULD can always be counted on to host the most interesting Liberal Democrat speakers. OULD includes people from all walks of Liberal life, from orange-book free(ish) marketeers to Social Democrats and devotees of community politics. OULD also works to support local Lib Dems on the Oxford City Council. There are also plenty of societies dedicated to political discussion and political action that are not affiliated to a party. International Relations Society goes from strength to strength, holding debates and speaker events with leading world figures and academics in the field. Oxford Women in Politics promotes and supports aspirant political women, holding trainings, drinks and discussions. Its annual garden party is a fixture on the Oxford political calendar. The PPE Society is a place for all things Philiosophy, Politics and Economics. You don’t have to be a PPEist to join or to go along to their events, you just have to be interested. There is also the Oxford Radical Forum, which hosts speakers and organises events catering to the radical left. Finally, don’t forget that as far as student politics in Oxford is concerned, the biggest annual event is arguably the Student Union elections in 6th Week of Michaelmas. If you want to shape your Student Union, or even if you just like running a war room stuffed with phones and laptops and co-ordinating a small army of activists, get involved! For more information see www.ousu.org.
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journalism
There’s an Oxford publication for everyone
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tudent journalism often gets a bad rap, but in Oxford you’ll be working amongst the media movers and shakers of the future and may possibly become one of them. The opportunities student journalism opens up are immense, encompassing newspapers, magazines and online content. There are two main papers: The Oxford Student and Cherwell. Both are wholly written and edited by students. Each is designed on professional software and prints over 3,000 copies a week. The staff structure varies slightly on each paper, but the teams on both change every term, and positions include everything from photographers and graphic designers to writers and editors. Writers may contribute a few hours per term, whereas the Editors can work 60-hour weeks! The Oxford Student, or OxStu for short, has a strong news section, with in-depth investigations and original photography. It frequently breaks exclusive stories and many former staff are now working for national papers, or doing MAs at the best journalism colleges in the nation. Cherwell is famous for its lifestyle section, with features like ‘Fit College’ and ‘Blind Date’. Read a copy and all will be revealed. One Editor described the process of putting the paper together: ‘The thrill of seeing your name in print never gets old. Lovingly coaxing a few leads and ideas on a white board into a fully-fledged paper each week is an exhilarating experience; sharing it with everyone else on the team creates friendships you won’t find anywhere else’. There is a friendly rivalry between
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the papers, though things can get heated when both parties are chasing a story, but in general each respects the other’s practices. Working for a newspaper will teach you the skills necessary to write concisely and clearly; some have said more so than tutorial essays! But, if the world of newspapers seems a bit deadline-heavy, Oxford also supports several student magazines. The Isis is everything you want from an arty student publication: a luscious layout and that thick paper normally only used for quirky art house publications designed somewhere in East London. Content includes culture, fashion and arts writing and the best is picked up by the national media. Isis is published once per term, so the deadlines are longer than for the papers. Although in a similar vein, the staff change termly, so the opportunity to get involved comes around often. If you like working deeply on one project, this could be for you. For those with an eye for science or a love of illustration, Bang! Science Magazine offers a quirky combination of both, with students writing articles on topics at the forefront of their subjects and having them personally illustrated and presented by a gifted team of student artists. Working in the student media is a great CV point. Past writers have secured work experience at The Sunday Times, The Guardian, NME, Vogue, and the BBC. But for the moment, forget any notions of careerism and enjoy getting stuck into student journalism. You won’t regret a minute of it. Both papers have active websites, including blogs, podcasts and videos. To contact any of the publications, Google their websites and drop the Editors a message. They’ll be keen to hear from you.
T 15,000
hen it hit me that this week,
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people will read
my interview with the
What’sYourStory?
OxfordStudent The
Oxford’s most read student newspaper
Sign up at Fresher’s Fair or OxfordStudent.com/apply The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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religion &spirituality In addition to Oxford’s Christian roots, the University offers a whole variety of ways for students to explore their faiths
most colleges have a chapel and every college has a Christian Union (CU). The CUs provide a space where Christians can come together to bear witness to their faith and explore it through discussions and Bible study. All CU’s are affiliated to the central Inter-Collegiate Christian Union (OICCU); an evangelical body that is a hub for The Oxford University Buddhist Society Bible study and social activity. They meet together (Budsoc) offers free weekly Samatha meditation regularly for fellowship, prayer, worship and time classes throughout all three Oxford terms, as well studying the Bible. The Graduate CU (GCU) offers as speaker events on areas relating to meditation a forum for postgraduates from all denominations and Buddhist theory. All are welcome, regardless to come together. of their level of experience, or whether or not For Catholic students, there are the Catholic they attend Oxford University. There is a Centre Society (CathSoc) and the Catholic Chaplaincy for Buddhist Studies and Thrangu House on (located in the city centre). There is a daily Mass for Magdalen Road has a large shrine room that holds students followed by lunch. The Newman Society up to 100 people. is arguably Oxford University’s oldest student There are various Christian communities society and certainly its oldest Catholic society. It in Oxford, with many Churches in the city exists to promote Catholic faith and culture within encompassing a host of traditions. In addition, the University, and has served as the model for 6_CLUBS & SOCIETIES
Catholic student societies throughout the English speaking world. For Orthodox students, there are both Eastern and Russian Orthodox Churches in the city, located on Canterbury Road. HUM, the Hindu Society (HUM) aims to cater
for the needs of the Hindu and Asian population in Oxford by providing a range of religious, social and cultural activities, from the Diwali Ball, to Holi celebrations, to carrom competitions. Their standing goal is to ensure that all events are of the highest quality, and tailored to the needs of their members. HUM also tries to educate Hindus and non-Hindus alike in the main teachings and philosophy of Hinduism. The Islamic Society (I-Soc) provides a focal point for Muslim students and staff. Activities and events range from Friday prayer and learning circles to football and dhikr, as well as socials, lectures and charity fundraisers. There is a muslim prayer room in the Robert Hooke Building on Parks Road. Additionally there is a dynamic and integrated Muslim community in Oxford city, with a beautiful, recently-built mosque and Asian cultural centre just outside the city centre and many restaurants and shops selling halal food. There is also a Bangladeshi mosque and a Madinah mosque. All colleges provide vegetarian food, and most accommodate students who wish to cater for themselves. During Ramadan, daily meals are provided so that students can eat together. MuJewz is an apolitical student interfaith
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dialogue group which aims to bring Muslim and Jewish students in Oxford to celebrate the common ground the two faiths share. Their aim is to promote cultural and religious understanding through constructive and meaningful debate and activities. Young Jains Students Oxford is an organisation that encourages the discussion and exploration of Jain philosophy, spirituality and its practical importance to life, in an open and friendly environment. Jainism is an ancient Indian religion based around the principles of non-violence, harmlessness and reincarnation. J-Soc is the representative body for Jewish students in Oxford and Oxford Brookes. Along with the Oxford Jewish Congregation (a synagogue and community centre), meals are provided every night, which is especially helpful for those keeping kosher. A Shabat dinner is held every week including a speaker (and chicken soup!). There is a Jewish chaplaincy couple in Oxford, who can help with any question, be it spiritual or practical. The University is accommodating during festivals and shabas (e.g. when there is a clash with exams), and most colleges will support students in catering for their dietary requirements. Students can also explore the spiritual side of Judaism through the Shabat Society, which offers opportunities for individual daily study and socialising. The Sikh Society holds weekly Simran and discussions, as well as hosting regular guest speakers and social events. The nearest Gurdwara is in Marston, which is a short bus journey away from the city centre. Every spring the Gurdwara holds a parade in Headington to celebrate Maheguroo. Many Sikh students are also members of HUM (the Hindu society), which organises events and activities for all Asian students. Although there is much to support and facilitate students of faith, Oxford remains a hub for open and intellectual discussion. The Atheist, Secularist and Humanist Society (ASH) seeks to introduce and broaden the understanding of their ideas and viewpoints through speaker events and discussions throughout the year.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
A R C
n g i a p m a C for l a i s s c e a R aren Awand lity a u Eq S S E EN
R A W G A N I E ND A T RAIS RS E D UN R E T S Y FO T I S R E V I D E T A R B E CEL
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The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
sport
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A rundown of the numerous sporting opportunities that you could encounter at Oxford
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t only takes a quick glance at the billboards at the Iffley Road Sports Complex to see that Oxford has a proud sporting history both on and away from the river! Larger-thanlife images of Olympians Roger Bannister (athletics), Stephanie Cook (modern pentathlon) and Matthew Pinsent (rowing) reflect just a few of the achievements of Oxford’s sportsmen and women over the years, whilst historic fixtures such as the Boat Race and Rugby Varsity Match attract media attention worldwide. However, our prowess is by no means restricted to the traditional sports. In fact, Oxford is consistently placed in the top ten universities for sport according to the BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) league table, which compiles results annually from 50 different sports and we are proud to support our numerous elite performers and teams across a wide range of disciplines.
6_CLUBS &&SOCIETIES 7_HEALTH WELLBEING
Sport forms an integral part of student life in Oxford. Participation rates are exceptionally high thanks to the wide spectrum of sporting opportunities offered by our 85 student-run sports clubs and countless college sides. Mainstream sports such as hockey, football and rugby operate multiple University-level teams as well as successful inter-collegiate leagues. During term time most team sports will play weekly in Wednesday afternoon BUCS fixtures and at weekends in regional or national leagues, whilst BUCS, regional and national championship events are prominent fixtures for sports such as athletics and swimming. Adventurous types may be attracted to the mountaineering, caving or surf clubs, who run regular trips at weekends throughout term, whilst those who fancy trying something new may be interested in modern pentathlon, octopush, or the dancesport beginner’s team. Meanwhile, for those less keen on competition, activities such as gliding or Tai Chi may be of interest, and pool and
gym memberships are available at the Iffley Road Sports Complex. And if your sport does not get a mention here, the Sports Federation can provide guidance and support to students wishing to set up new clubs. For most sports, a Varsity match forms the pinnacle of the competition season for Oxford and Cambridge alike, and participation in this event remains the official prerequisite for the awarding of ‘Blues’, a prestigious and historic award that carries a high status within the University and beyond. From the internationally-renowned Boat Race, to the longest-running track and field fixture in the world, Varsity competition attracts support from many thousands of spectators each year. Even if you are not fortunate enough to have the opportunity to compete, make sure that you turn out to support your peers and your university against our minty green rivals! If University sport seems a little too serious, then all students have the opportunity to play for their college. During any one week in term, there can be up to 500 students competing in one college sport alone! Almost all University sports clubs run ‘Cuppers’ competitions, providing opportunities to try out new sports with low levels of commitment and a focus on friendly competition. Some of the most popular college sports include football, rugby, tennis, netball, hockey, rowing, mixed lacrosse, dancesport and athletics. A common concern amongst new students is
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whether they will have time to commit to a sports team (or several!) alongside their academic studies, but many students do manage to participate in multiple extracurriculars whilst excelling in their degree. With good time management there is no reason for sport to detract from your studies, and the lifelong friendships and memories that you’ll form will far outlast those of libraries and examrelated stress!
Naturally sport is also a great way to socialise, and the sportsmen and women of Oxford are noted for their enthusiastic approach to extracurricular team building! As well as the ever-prevalent ‘crew dates’, a wide range of social events are arranged within individual colleges and clubs. At the University level, sport is a great way to meet people from different colleges, subjects, and years, and most clubs will have a social secretary in charge of ensuring that it’s not all workout and no play! Of particular note are the Wednesday Sports nights at Oxford’s very own ‘Park End’, which will usually be filled with teams out celebrating BUCS success and also the annual Sports Federation Ball, held at the end of Michaelmas Term. Wherever your talents or interests lie, Oxford’s sporting provision can cater for you. If you have any further queries about Oxford sport, come and find the Sports Federation stall at Freshers’ Fair, or take time to visit us at Iffley Road. www.sport. ox.ac.uk, Twitter: @OxfordUniSport Facebook: Oxford University Sport.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
thestudent adviceservice
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Confused, worried and don’t know where to turn? The Student Advice Service is at hand.
T
he Student Advice Service is a confidential and impartial service available free of charge to all students in the University. From academic matters to harassment, from accommodation to college discipline, we are here to offer advice, information and advocacy. There are four sabbatical officers on the Student Advice Service, as well as two permanent Student Advisors, all of whom are happy to give advice and respond to your queries. Members of the Service have their own areas of expertise. The Student Advisors are able to advise you on a broad range of issues, or can otherwise direct you to the most suitable member of the service. The VP (Welfare and Equal Opportunities) is the manager of the Student Advice Service, and is able to offer information and advice on most areas of Oxford life. The VP (Access and Academic Affairs) specialises in undergraduate academic issues, and can help if you are having trouble with exam arrangements or academic discipline. The VP (Graduates) is responsible for postgraduate, international and mature students, and is particularly useful for helping with aspects
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of postgraduate study such as supervision, transfer and confirmation of status. The VP (Women) can offer advice on issues that particularly affect women and she is happy to give advice and information to people of any gender. The VP (Women) is also responsible for issues concerning student parents. The Student Advice Service is primarily a referral service: we are not trained to solve the problems that you have but we can direct you to a number of services who are better equipped to help you, both within and outside the University. So if you have a problem and you’re not sure where to turn, the Student Advice Service can show you all the relevant options. All the members of the Student Advice Service have been students, so know a great deal about the services available across Oxford. The Student Advice Service is well placed to offer support to students negotiating the complex procedures of the University and colleges. Members of the Service are on hand to help you understand these confusing processes, if you need some support along the way. Members of the service may also be able to act as representatives in any hearings that you might need to attend. If you think the Student Advice Service can help you, don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can contact the Service by phone or email and arrange an appointment. Get in contact with the Student Advice Service at advice@ousu.org or by phoning (01865) 288461.
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Student Advice Service
helping you find your way
The Student Advice Service offers impartial and confidential support for free. We can help you with the issues that affect your quality of life as a student. From academic matters to harassment, from accommodation to college discipline, we are here to offer advice, information and advocacy. And, if we can’t help you, we’ll help you find someone who can. There are six members of the Student Advice Service, each of whom can be contacted individually. For general inquiries, email advice@ousu.org.
Student Advisors 01865 288466 advice@ousu.org Vice President (Welfare and Equal Opportunities) 01865 288461 welfare@ousu.org Vice President (Access & Academic Affairs) 01865 288464 access@ousu.org Vice President (Women) 01865 288462 women@ousu.org Vice President (Graduates) 01865 288463 graduates@ousu.org
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
welfare
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University life can be demanding, but there are plenty of options to choose from if you ever need help or advice
M
ost students enjoy their time at Oxford; it is a university filled with unrivalled academic, social and extra-curricular opportunities. However, many students experience difficulties during their time here. If you do encounter a problem while you are in Oxford, whether it relates to your physical, sexual or emotional well-being, you should not hesitate to seek help and support. While many people are uncomfortable about tackling these kinds of issues, there is no reason to be ashamed, or afraid to ask for help. All the services mentioned in this section are designed for you as a student, and the sooner you approach them, the sooner you can get back to making the most of your time in Oxford. Oxford has a very extensive welfare network, so you can get various types of support from many different sources. This is great, but it means that you won’t always be able to find the right support first time round. If you try something and don’t think it’s right for you, don’t give up; there will be a number of other places you can turn to for help. Every college has a ‘point person’ who is the main point of contact for the well-being of students, and will be available for students to approach. This could be a ‘Welfare Dean’, a ‘Welfare Tutor’ or a Chaplain, who can listen impartially and confidentially to people of any faith, or none. Every college system is slightly different, and there may be more than one individual available to support you, so it is worth finding out what the options are. You will have a subject tutor who is in charge
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of your academic progress and development, who will have a responsibility to make sure that you are coping with your studies. Some colleges operate a system of ‘moral’ or ‘personal’ tutors where a tutor outside your subject area is responsible for your well-being and personal development. Depending on your college’s system, different support will be available to you from different sources, but you should feel able to discuss issues of well-being and problems of study with your tutor or tutors. All Common Rooms will have at least one Welfare Officer, whose role is to provide information, sexual health resources and referrals. Some Common Room Officers will be trained in listening skills as part of their role, so they will be available if you just want to talk instead of asking for information. Most colleges have a group of students who have undergone a listening skills training course. The scheme is voluntary, so it is populated by students who are interested in helping others in times of need. Their support is impartial and confidential. Colleges will have a nurse or a doctor (or both) who hold regular surgery hours and can provide confidential advice about your mental or physical health. If you are concerned about confidentiality, ask for their policies, because they vary between colleges. Some colleges’ GPs do not visit the college, but instead are based in a doctors’ surgery in and around central Oxford. Your college will give you information on who they are and how to contact them.
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The University Counselling Service is independent, impartial and confidential, staffed by professionally trained counsellors. They will be able to help you with any sort of emotional or psychological difficulties you are facing that are affecting your quality of life as a student and they are familiar with the pressures of studying in Oxford. There can be a waiting list for the service, but mostly students can get an appointment within a week of first contact. You will be asked to provide some information about why you are seeking counselling, and the more you can write down, the better. During the first session, you and your counsellor (you can ask to see a man or a woman) will discuss the issues that you are having and ascertain the best approach for you. Contact reception@counserv.ox.ac.uk. Many people are uncomfortable at the prospect of counselling, but it is natural to seek help. A lot of students also query whether they are
distressed enough to justify counselling, but it is important to know that you do not have to be suicidal or enduring a nervous breakdown to book an appointment. Many students use the service and find it provides a safe space to be honest and open, and to discuss topics that you might not want to bring up at home or in college. OUSU’s Student Advice Service is a confidential, impartial and free service that offers advice, information and advocacy to students on a broad range of issues. If you are experiencing a problem and you don’t know where to turn, they will be happy to help. Contact advice@ousu.org. The Disability Advisory Service is a team of dedicated specialists who can help those with physical disabilities, Specific Learning Difficulties or mental health problems. They can help you apply and use the Disabled Students’ Allowance and help colleges and departments make adjustments for students with disabilities. Contact disability@admin. ox.ac.uk. Nightline is a free, confidential and impartial listening service, run by students, that operates from 8pm to 8am during term time. You can call them on (01865) 270270 or visit them at 16 Wellington Square. There is no religious, political or social bias and you can talk to either a male or a female volunteer for as long as you like. Various university societies can act as a source of support for students. For instance, LGBTQ Society provides listening and welfare services to lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans students, and those who are exploring their sexuality. Oxford aslo has a multitude of International Societies to represent particular nationalities and their cultures. For international students who are finding it difficult to acclimatise to British culture, international societies are a good place to meet your compatriots. There is a lot more information and support offered by the University that can be accessed online at the Student Gateway. Here, you can find information on such topics as funding, living costs, student parents, visas and immigration. Visit: http://www.ox.ac.uk/students.
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healthcare Some advice on how to navigate the NHS
I
f you are registered for a course lasting at least 6 months, you are entitled to free public healthcare from the NHS (National Health Service). ‘Free healthcare’ means consultations and hospital treatments are free but you will have to pay for medicines, glasses, dental treatment and some other special services. One exception to this is contraception, which is free to obtain. Students who are here for less than 6 months will receive free hospital treatment but are not usually eligible for free treatment from a local General Practitioner (GP). Some extra services are also available free to students from the EU who hold a valid EHIC card.
Making aN appointment Some college doctors will offer appointments in college, however, others will require you to visit their local surgery. If you are registered with a local GP, you will have to book an appointment through the surgery itself.
PRESCRIPTIONS
If you need medicine, your GP will give you a prescription, which you can take to a pharmacy such as Boots (locations in Cornmarket Street and Cowley Road). Most pharmacies are not open 24 hours a day and some are closed at weekends. If you need a repeat prescription, you can call your doctor or sometimes use an online refill option. If your college uses a specific doctor, they will Your doctor will find the UK equivalent for any provide information for when and how to register. overseas medicines that you require. However, it You can also register with a local surgery if your is important for you to know exactly what medicine college does not have a doctor or you would prefer you need (the medical name and not just the brand one nearer where you live. (Type in your Oxford name). postcode at www.nhs.uk/servicedirectories to find the name of your local doctor’s surgery.) To register, you will usually need your passport, evidence you are a student (such as an enrolment certificate), and proof of your UK address. The UK has a private practice system that Registering as soon as possible after you arrive is may provide care which is unavailable through the strongly advised as it will save you time if you do NHS. The cost is significant, but it might be worth need medical help during your time here. considering if you have a rare condition or would like to have a specific test done while you are here.
Registering with a doctor
Private care
Visit www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_sheets/keeping_healthy.php for more information on these issues.
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disabilities Having a disability should never prevent anyone from having an enjoyable and successful time in Oxford. Oxford University Student Union works with the University to ensure that students with disabilities are not disadvantaged in any area of the University experience
W
hether you have a physical disability, mental health problem or a specific learning disability, there is a variety of provision that could be available to you. Your college will have a specified ‘disability contact’ who will be able to help you with any adjustments that need to be made in college; do not hesitate to ask your tutor or the welfare officers in your common room for the name of the contact. Your academic tutor will be able to help you make arrangements in your department, for example with lectures and libraries.
Your college makes applications on your behalf to the Proctors for special arrangements in examinations. If you feel that you need adjustments made for your exams, you should get in touch with your Senior Tutor, who will guide you through the
process. It can take a long time for these things to be processed, so it is worth getting them organised as early as possible. The Disability Advisory Service is a useful central body who can give you advice on how to negotiate life in Oxford as a disabled student. They can liaise with your college and department to make sure that they have the right information about you. They can also help you through the process of applying for Disabled Students’ Allowance, which provides support with study skills and learning. Physical accessibility is variable between colleges and departments. Three colleges (St. John’s, St. Catherine’s and Wadham) are fully wheelchair accessible, and many others will have accessible accommodation, libraries and other facilities. OUSU has its own activities for Students with Disabilities. The VP (Welfare and Equal Opportunities) runs a buddy scheme for new students with Asperger’s Syndrome. There is also the ‘Students With Disabilities Campaign’ which campaigns on issues of disability, and organises Disability Awareness Week every Michaelmas Term. For more information about studying and living in Oxford with a disability, you can request a copy of the Students With Disabilities Guide from the VP (Welfare and Equal Opportunities) at welfare@ousu.org.
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academicsupport
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Getting to grips with academic life at Oxford can take a while, but there’s plenty of help on offer…
H
owever you measure it, Oxford is one of the best universities in the country for supporting its students. Across the UK, about 10% of students who start their degree course won’t continue past the first year. In Oxford, it’s less than 2%. That’s not because studying here is easy, or that all Oxford students are super-human: it’s because a lot of effort is put into making sure that everyone here can get the most out of their degree, regardless of any academic problems or personal difficulties they might be facing. In fact sometimes there’s so much help on offer it can be hard to know where to start! Above all the thing to remember is that everyone at Oxford knows that students are only human, and if you’re struggling with your work or
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personal problems that are affecting your studies there are usually many ways the University and Colleges can help. If you’re looking for a startingpoint, feel free to get in touch with OUSU’s Student Advice Service (more information below) by emailing advice@ousu.org.
Undergraduates
T
he centre of academic life for most undergraduates is their college, so it’s unsurprising that there’s often a strong network of support in colleges and JCRs to support students. Often the best person to speak to is your subject tutor: they know you, they know the work and together they can help you to work out where there might be difficulties and how you can get round them. Most tutors are very flexible when it comes to helping their students, and many have been around in Oxford long enough to know what problems can occur and how best to deal with them. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to your subject tutors, some colleges provide you
with a ‘personal’ or ‘moral’ tutor, which is normally an academic from your college but not connected to your subject area, to whom you can talk to about factors that might be affecting your academic work and who may be able to offer guidance. There are also usually several college officers you can speak to about a whole range of issues. If a problem is affecting your academic work, you may wish to speak to your Senior Tutor (or college equivalent). Senior Tutors are largely responsible for overseeing undergraduate academic provision in college: they handle everything from complaints about poor teaching through to helping you get coursework extensions and extra-time in examinations. Even more than subject tutors, Senior Tutors have a wealth of experience of helping students through a whole range of problems, both personal and academic, and are often able to resolve things quickly. Your college will also have a range of other officers with welfare responsibilities, and this varies depending on the college. Often the college Chaplain is someone you can approach in confidence to discuss issues, and in some colleges the Dean and/or Junior Deans are available to help students in difficulty. If it is a medical problem affecting your work, you may want to seek some advice from your college nurse or college doctor about any adjustments you may need to your teaching or workload. Finally your JCR will normally have Welfare Officers and Academic Affairs Officers who will be able to offer advice or direct you to the people in college who can help.
Graduates
W
hile some of the academic support available to graduates is very similar to undergraduate provision, there are some differences on the departmental side. Because the academic life of many graduates is tied more closely to their department than their college, often it is the department that is the first port-of-call for graduate students when solving work-related issues. Your supervisors will usually be the first point of contact if you are experiencing problems with your work, and just as with college tutors, most supervisors have a wealth of experience helping students to get the most out
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of their studies even when faced with personal or academic difficulties. If you don’t feel that you can approach your supervisor, the next person to contact is usually your Director of Graduate Studies (DGS). Your DGS can help you to resolve any problems you may be having with your supervisors and can work with you and your supervisors to make any special provisions or adjustments you may need to continue with your studies. If you don’t feel you can speak to your supervisors or the DGS, then you can also approach the Head of Department. However there is still lots of support available for graduate students through colleges, particularly if you don’t feel you can go to your department to discuss problems. All graduates are assigned a College Advisor, who should be a tutor in your college not connected to your teaching or subject area, and who you can speak to about any problems that may be affecting your work. You can also raise problems with your Senior Tutor (in some colleges there is a separate Tutor for Graduates), who have a lot of experience in helping and supporting graduate students.
Other sources of help
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USU’s Student Advice Service is a free, confidential and impartial service; every year we advise hundreds of students on a range of academic issues, from problems with exams through difficulties with supervisors. We also act as a signposting service, directing students to other services in the University and Colleges who can help with particular problems. Feel free to get in touch by emailing advice@ousu.org. For specific problems that may be affecting your academic work, the University runs a number of services for students, including the Disability Advisory Service and the Counselling Service. The University Student Information and Advisory Service is based in the Exam Schools and can provide lots of useful information for students as well as direct students to other services in the University.
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012
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well-being The following is a brief ‘survival guide’ for all students
Alcohol
Not everyone in Oxford drinks alcohol, but for some it can be an important part of their social life and student experience. A night out can be good fun but be aware that alcohol can impair your judgement and lead to behaviour that you might not be too proud of the next morning. Having a meal beforehand and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water will help to moderate the adverse effects of alcohol in your system. If you’re going out drinking then think about getting a friend to keep an eye on you – you can do the same in return – and make sure you know how you’ll be getting home. Go to www.drinkaware.co.uk to find out your daily limits and for information on the health implications of drinking.
Drugs
Recreational drug use isn’t everywhere in Oxford but there is a chance that you’ll be presented with the opportunity to take drugs at some point during your time here. If you’re thinking about using drugs bear in mind that the effects will vary between people and your experience can depend on factors like your mood, your general health and the amount you take. Because drugs are illegal, their quality isn’t regulated and it can be difficult to know exactly what you’re taking, so if you’re trying something new, make sure you’re with someone you trust to look after you if it goes wrong. Before you do anything, it’s worth thinking about the University’s attitude to drugs; using or dealing illegal drugs is a breach of the University’s regulations, and colleges tend to treat use or possession as a pretty serious disciplinary offence which could even lead to expulsion.
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If you want more information about drugs and their effects you could try asking your college doctor or go to FRANK (0800 776 600, www. talktofrank.com) or SMART (01865 403 151, www.smartcjs.org.uk).
Sexual Health
People come to university with different levels of sexual experience as well as a whole variety of perceptions and preferences. If you’re going to engage in sexual activity with someone else then make sure you keep yourself safe – both physically and emotionally. Before going ahead with anything, it’s good to have an honest conversation with your partner so you can be sure that you both know what you’re agreeing to and are aware of the risks. In terms of physical health, you’ll want to keep yourself safe from sexually transmitted infections and the chance of an unplanned pregnancy. Your college welfare officers can provide you with free condoms, dental dams, pregnancy tests and refunds for emergency contraceptive pills. If you are having sex then it’s worth getting regular testing to check that you haven’t picked up an STI and to treat any infection you do get before it causes long-term damage. The Genito-Urinary Medicinal (GUM) clinic at the Churchill Hospital is the main place to go for testing, treatment and advice in Oxford. You can find their opening times and how to book an appointment at www. sexualhealthoxfordshire.nhs.uk. For more information contact the VP (Welfare & Equal Opportunities) at welfare@ousu.org or an advisor from the Student Advice Service at student.advisor@ousu.org.
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Last year, in conjunction with Ben and Jerry's, OUSU E&E handed out free ice cream to raise the profile of Fairtrade produce and started a campaign called Sustain-a-Ball to make Balls more sustainable. In 2010-2011 the Buy Right Campaign ensured that clothes bearing the Oxford University Crest* would never again be produced through child labour… This year, what do you want to change?
*as sold through Oxford Ltd
The Oxford University Student Union International Freshers’ Guide_ 2012