Fresh Magazine September 2013

C L O E M E W r

mbe

e Sept

Freshers' Survival Guide Freshers' Week Entertainment 10 Top Tips for Better Budgeting

FREE

2013

We have had to say goodbye to some of the wonderful Fresh team as they leave us to embrace the big, bad world of employment and such. So, we need to find a whole new team to join us in creating this awesome publication.

Think you have what it takes?

Available positions for next year: Fresh m agazine needs

you!

Writers (Including: News, Features, Music, Fashion, Film, Sport, Cooking, Reviews... and more) Photographers Illustrators Visual Designers creative writing entries We are also open to content suggestions.

If you fancy a chance at being part of this studentled publication, please contact our Editor, Holly (email address below) or come and see us at Freshers’ fair.

barkerh@roehampton.ac.uk

THANK YOU We’d like to thank the following students and staff for their contribution to this edition of Fresh Magazine.

Wade Tomlinson Rachael Blaney Paul Dabell Jessica Lewis Blaize Donoghue Alexandra Brook Hollie Abbott Michael Diss Chris O' Boyle Jon Foley Gemma Foley Jan Absolon Siobhan Kelly Mollie Vingoe Mikey James Laura Goodbrand

Front cover (from left to right)

Blaize Donoghue (Volunteering intern) Hollie Abbott Fresh TV Intern) Paul Dabell VP CAMPAIGNS Rachael Blaney (VP Welfare) Wade Tomlinson (VP Students' Union) Jessica Lewis (Societies intern) Alexandra Brook (Fresh Air intern)

e h t m o r f r e t t Le . . . r o t i ed

Congratulations on making Roehampton your new home for the next few years. Although in the depths of the big bad city, the Roehampton community is very homely and friendly, so do not fear – you will fit in perfectly.

This special edition of Fresh has been sent to you with the aim of guiding you through your first few weeks of Uni and helping you to prepare for Uni life.

Fresh is usually a completely student-led publication but this issue is slightly different to the usual publication as it is written by those lovely Roehampton Student Union folks who are currently planning you the best Freshers’ week you will find on this small blue planet.

Please browse through and soak up these words of wisdom, familiarise yourself with the important people and get all excited about this new chapter of your life.

Again, well done for choosing Roehampton – we love you already.

See you in September!

Holly Holly Barker Editor

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6-7

Meet your sabbatical officers

16-17

8-9

Introduction to Student Life and Fresh media

18-19

10-11

Freshers' Week and what's on

20-21

12-13

Freshers' survival guide 10 top tips

22-23

14-15

Societies, volunteering and Growhampton

24-27

get ved invol 4

FRESH MAGAZINE

Meet your college presidents

The College cup and introduction to student voice

students' union council dates

Introduction to student support and professional services

Student finance & 10 top tips for better budgeting

SOCIETIES

WELCOME RSU is a student-led, democratic organisation that strives to enhance your student experience. From volunteering and societies to elections and great entertainment, RSU provides something for everyone.

student

VOICE

STUDENT SUPPORT

STUDENT LIFE

8

STUDENT VOICE

19

STUDENT SUPPORT

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roehamptonstudent.com 5

meet your SABBATICAL OFFICERS

“

“

Wade Tomlinson

“

As President I am required to be the main face and voice of the Students’ Union. I sit on various committees such as the University Senate and Council where I provide feedback collected through various initiatives and campaigns to improve the student experience. I am here to ensure that you are heard and to embed the student voice in every movement of the University.

2. What did you study at Roehampton?

Make your time here as worthwhile and memorable as you can.

“

Rachael Blaney

Sports Science and Health and Human Sciences.

3. Favourite University pastime?

Well, I would like to say nothing can beat the Bop on Friday night, but I do miss playing for the Roehampton 1sts and Whitelands football team... mainly because I’m in desperate need of the exercise!

4. Give one unique fact about yourself.

Get out of your comfort zone to meet new friends and learn new skills.

“

Paul Dabell 6

SU PRESIDENT

1. Describe what you do as President.

Enjoy what can easily be described as the best years of your life.

“

Wade Tomlinson

FRESH MAGAZINE

I have appeared on the Geordie Shore – Magaluf Madness advert dressed as a Tiger. Other than that I have also unintentionally annoyed Will.I.Am. 5. What advice would you give to new students?

Enjoy your time at University to the max. You have to plan your future and there’s work to be done but HAVE FUN!! Join a society; volunteer for a M.A.D project; try out for a sports team; have a debate at the Students’ Union Council...use every opportunity that the University throws at you!

Rachael Blaney

Paul Dabell

VP Welfare

VP Campaigns

1. Describe what do you do as VP of Welfare.

1. Describe what do you do as VP of Campaigns.

My role as VP Welfare centres around the wellbeing of the student body, supporting and educating students about issues regarding sexual health, money and stress. I will be a support to students, directing them to the relevant services here at Roehampton and also running campaigns alongside Paul DaBell.

Effectively my role is to engage you and raise awareness on issues that may affect you as students and citizens. There will be a number of campaigns spread across the academic year with events, workshops, guest speakers and fundraising that will aid local, national and international charities.

2. What did you study at Roehampton?

2. What did you study at Roehampton?

Dance Studies

Education Studies

3. Favourite University pastime?

3. Favourite University pastime?

The Bop! Cheap drinks, good music, fun times!

HOWEVER, my ultimate favourite has to be FRIGBY! The anticipation, the banter, the fighting-talk (all in good faith!) and the college pride that you feel from this event is amazing. It’s even better when you win and celebrate (or commiserate, sorry Froebel!) at Frigby Bop!

As much as I want to say the Grand on the first Monday of the month I’m going to have to say Frigby.

The fundraisers, the build-up, the day itself with the water fight, match, banter and of course Frigby Bop just makes it my favourite event of the year.

4. Give one unique fact about yourself.

When the majority of you freshers were in your final year at primary school I was starting the first of several ‘gap years’ with a trip to Australia and New Zealand for a few months of sport, work, beaches and partying!

Yes I am a slightly mature sabbatical officer……

I’m a huge musical theatre fan and I had the honour of being the President of the Roehampton Players Drama society in my 2nd and 3rd year and directed the musical RENT in 2013! I also may or may not have seen Jersey Boys over eight times…

5. What advice would you give to new students?

Get involved with as much as you can! Take advantage of the societies and sports teams we have at Roehampton, go on TOUR, become a student mentor, run in the student elections for an officer position…

Make your time here as worthwhile and as memorable as you can!

4. Give one unique fact about yourself.

5. What advice would you give to new students?

Do as much as you possibly can in the three years you have! Become a programme rep, be a student mentor, join a sports team or a society try something new, run for an officer position within the RSU...Get out of your comfort zone to meet new friends and learn new skills.

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STUDENT LIFE

University is more than just gaining a degree; it is about making new friends, trying new experiences and developing new skills.

RSU co-ordinate, support and provide opportunities for students to engage, from joining societies, volunteering on MAD projects, presenting on Fresh Air through to representing your college in the College Cup. If you have some free time then don’t waste it; the skills and experiences gained from these activities are often transferable to employment and in our experience, shape some of your best memories of University.

gET INVOLVED AND staY CONNECTED

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FRESH MAGAZINE

STUDENT LIFE

FRESH MEDIA The RSU have three dedicated media channels run and organised by both our interns and our students. The Fresh media team is divided into three main areas: Fresh Magazine, Fresh TV and Fresh Air.

This student led publication is a great opportunity for aspiring writers and journalists to get involved.

There are also great opportunities for students to showcase photography or advertise events from societies, volunteering projects and more! You’ll also find updates from our Sabbatical and officer teams, interns, and contributing editors, keeping you up to date with what matters most.

Fresh TV is our online TV Station where we follow the adventures of the student body throughout their journey at Roehampton, capturing events and activities across campus to showcase the best of what our students do. Videos are regularly uploaded to our website so even if you miss out you still feel a part of it. Fresh TV provides students with the opportunity to gain experience in filming, editing, directing, presenting, acting and writing. If this appeals then please get in touch.

At Fresh Air we aim to deliver a range of student created shows that reflect the diversity and vibrancy of the student body at the University. We also play an eclectic range of music, both new and old, to suit every mood and occasion. Whether you’re revising for exams, chilling out with friends or getting ready for a night out, we have something for you.

Follow us @roehamptonsu

Like Roehampton SU

Stay updated www.roehamptonstudent.com

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What's on?

Entertainment

MONDAY The Clapham Grand, held once a month has produced some of the greatest RSU nights over the years.

TUESDAY No RSU specific events are held on Tuesdays; however, the Union Bar will always be open to nurse your needs with society & student-led events throughout the year.

WEDNESDAY Boasting a fully functional Travolta-esque flashing dance floor, Putney’s Fez Club provides the perfect excuse to cut a few shapes, make a fool of yourself and generally have a laugh.

THURSDAY Every Thursday event will take place in the Union, Froebel. The standard events programme will run on a three weekly cycle, but a couple of times each term we will throw in a CLUB FOOT event for good measure. Thursday events are FREE Slap It On! is an ‘open decks’ night for everyone giving you the opportunity to try your hand behind the decks!

Sign yourself up to a slot behind the bar, bring down your tunes and win over the crowd.

Acoustic Night – If you’re a budding singer song-writer, get up and belt out your best. You can sign up for a slot at the Union in advance or turn up on the night!

Karaoke Night – Turn up early, brave the stage, or if you prefer just stitch your mates up!

Club Foot – Live acts and Fresh Air DJs play only the best in Indie, Electro, Pop and good old Rock ‘n’ Roll.

FRIDAY The Bop is the biggest regular night on campus, with the Roehampton party animals out in force. It’s a no frills club night with drink promos and fancy dress themes each week.

WEEKEND RSU do not host their own regular events during the weekend, but here are some other ideas for you: The Union bar at Froebel is open on Saturday and Sunday, showing all major sporting fixtures as well as serving the usual great Pub Grub. Saturdays will see sporadic events throughout each term, with DJs to entertain.

Sunday roast & the famous pub quiz to end the weekend is a must.

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freshers' survivalguide

10 toptips

3 GROW Up...JUST A BIT! Your flat/housemates will not cook, clean and wash for you...unless

you live with some pretty awesome people.

Learn how to cook basic meals before you come or ask Mum or Dad; it’ll make them feel loved. You don’t want to be that person who burns down the kitchen in the first week.

Learn how to wash clothes, share responsibility for cleaning and stay hygienic.

4 FANCY DRESS IS A MUST!

1

GET A freshers' pass

This is your chance to experience everything: get to know the area, meet new friends, guarantee entry into all of Freshers’ Week and have a laugh. Don’t miss out; get yours early!

The quotes “I didn’t think anyone else would get one” and “Can’t believe it’s sold out” are heard way too often! Don’t make the same mistake; fill in the form and send off for your Freshers’ pass straight away.

2 GET CONNECTED! Twitter, Facebook, the University and RSU website will contain everything you need to know.

So follow @roehamptonsu, join the University of Roehampton SU Facebook Page and bookmark Roehamptonstudent.com as these will be your links to find out everything that is going on.

Also look out for our monthly Fresh magazine, weekly posters, Fresh Air Radio station and Fresh TV.

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Do you have any wacky outfits that you really can’t wait to wear again or have you always wanted to experiment with some stupid looking attire and never had an excuse to put it on?

Most Roehampton social events are themed and it’s always fun to get involved. This runs alongside collegial banter between each college. You’ll learn more about that when you arrive.

5

MAKE A CHECKLIST!

A list will help make sure you pack everything that is necessary, including: important documents, suitable clothing for various situations and maybe even that sentimental teddy that we hate to admit we can’t live without.

Other things you may want to consider are: a student bank account, planning out your available expenditure, buying books and paying any bills (rent), registering with the medical centre...etc.

6 ENGAGE & INTERACT!

Freshers' survival guide

9 UTILISE THE PROVISIONS AND SURROUNDINGS!

Join a society or sports team, become a programme rep, sit in student union council meetings, run for a position during student elections, be a part of Make a Difference (M.A.D) project, volunteer, join a campaign... do all of them...why not?!

University is a place where you get as much out of it as you put in. We want you to leave here with priceless memories and friends you’ll keep in contact with forever.

7

BE YOURSELF!

If your flatmate is an intense fanatic of horror flicks and you’re more of a mellow romcom fan, don’t agree to schedule in plans for a Nightmare on Elm Street Marathon every week if you don’t want to; you’ll get caught out sooner or later. It’s easier to just be yourself and everyone will share some common ground e.g. pizza...you can’t go wrong. Don’t force friendships; you’ll naturally build them from the start with our incredible Freshers’ week.

8 MAINTAIN COMMON SENSE! Don’t go spending your loan on the most expensive desirables and try not to be “that guy/girl” that goes out looking great but comes back in a state.

Paralytic people are selfish people and it’s just that bit more embarrassing in front of people you have just met. Stay in groups when travelling at night; it’s a new area so keep safe and take the contacts of important people.

Your module tutors, programme reps, programme convenors and subject leaders are always there to help with academic issues.

Money doctors are available to advise you on your spending.

Heads of Colleges are available for any welfare issues along with college tutors who are available 24/7 for any out-of-hours problems. Security will always be looming around campus and you always have the RSU team for various other issues.

You will also be very conveniently located in London.

Since coming here from Essex, I have: had a Q&A session with Myleene Klass and Jenson Button, been on an advert, a few game shows, in the players’ lounge at Wimbledon and even attempted to talk Art with a Member of Parliament.

Treat London as your campus; Roehampton is where you build your future.

10

Be organised

Read through any documents or contracts you are given before joining us. You don’t want to be out of the loop when you get here. Make sure you know where you’re going and what you are doing.

Remember, we are here to help.

For now, get onto the websites and stay informed. Hope all this helps. Looking forward to seeing you at Roehampton! www.roehampton.ac.uk www.roehamptonstudent.com Written by Wade Tomlinson, RSU President

roehamptonstudent.com 13

SOCIETIES Societies have always played an important role in the student experience. They enable you to seek out and try unusual activities, meet new and exciting people, build relationships with your peers, develop your CV and even continue the pursuit of hobbies or interests from your school, college or home life.

get ed v l o i nv

RECREATIONAL SOCIETIES St John Ambulance Steel Band First Aid Food

CULTURAL SOCIETIES

FUN SOCIETIES

Afro Caribbean Alternative Asian Cider Tasting International Japanese LGBT+ ROECAMPTON Norwegian MUSIC WRITING Palestine Solidarity RU Inspired Socialist Women's society MALE

Orchard RU Outdoors RU Inspired People & Planet Film RU Filming Third Row Dance Pole Fit Gaming and Role Play Roehampton Players Reading Art and Performance Laser Tag The Scouts Network Debating

Visit www.roehamptonstudent.com to find out more

14 FRESH MAGAZINE

ACADEMIC SOCIETIES Business Club Classics Debating Education English Literature Human Rights Life Sciences Philosophy Photography Psychology Mature Dance

RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES Alpha Christian Union Islamic Krishna Consciousness Ahlulbayt Discover life St Vincent De Paul Hindu Muslim Women's Society

STUDENT LIFE

volunteering ‘RU Inspired’ is our volunteering scheme and it provides a range of one-off and longer term volunteering opportunities for every student.

The one-off opportunities are known as MAD (Make a Difference) Projects, recruiting a high number of volunteers to have a positive impact either on campus or in the local community. You can view videos of MAD day projects like the Cleaner Thames Challenge on our Fresh TV station.

We aim to create partnerships with charities and organisations to provide you with opportunities that will complement your studies and enhance your CV. Through volunteering we aim to enhance your student experience, help you to build on your skills and have a great time doing it.

RSU also has a reward and recognition scheme where those students who dedicate the most hours of volunteering will be eligible to take part in an exciting and potentially life changing volunteering trip abroad.

Volunteering is a great way to have fun, meet friends and give back to the community. Our dedicated Student Life office intern, Blaize Donoghue, is here to help and keep you up to date with events and opportunities across the term.

GROWHAMPTON Growing a more sustainable future

Have fun, meet new friends and give back to the community.

RSU were recently successful in their Growhampton bid – a bid made to the Student Green Fund, Coordinated by NUS. Growhampton aims to support student unions to take leadership and ownership of the sustainability agenda in higher education. Growhampton aims to engage students, staff and the wider community by embedding sustainability in everyday life though the creation of community gardens/allotments, food co-op, café, environmental hub and the co-ordination projects and initiatives.

We run many other environmental initiatives including ‘Roehampton Reuse’. A ‘Re-love’ stall during Fresher’s Week in September will allow students to buy reused items like crockery, pots and pans and coat hangers, with proceeds going to fund more student-led environmental initiatives.

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meet your college presidents Laura Goodbrand (College Social Secretary for Digby)

1. What is the best feature of your college?

SIOBHAN KELLY 1. What is the best feature of your college?

Our glorious 14-acre field at the back of our campus, overlooking Richmond Park.

Whitelands has a country feel, giving it a unique sense of tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of London.

The best Feature of Digby is definitely the students.

There is always something going on around Digby and there are so many friendly people living on the campus.

2. What is your college mascot and why?

Our college mascot is the Lion. This is because Lions are brave strong and powerful just like our very own football team, the Digby Lions.

3. What are the upcoming college events/ activities?

2. What is your college mascot and why?

3. What are the upcoming college events/ activities?

We are currently putting together events for welcome Sunday. We are also putting together a few college nights, and of course the Christmas meal, as always, promises to be good.

4. What are you most looking forward to about being a College President?

As Digby CSS I am most looking forward to Freshers’ Week, welcoming all new students to Roehampton and having a generally good week

5. You have won Frigby for the past six years, how will you cope with the pressure knowing that you could be the college president remembered for losing Frigby?

There is no way I will let this happen. The Digby Lions are by far the best team at the University; there is no way they will let Froebel take the title from us heading for our 7th victory in 2014.

16 FRESH MAGAZINE

We like to be associated with the honey badger, which is one of the most fearless animals in the world!

Working closely with the Social Secretary, George Cole, we will be holding a First Night BBQ & Bar during Freshers’ Week, a weekly pub quiz, Karaoke and much more.

4. What are you most looking forward to about being a College President?

I am most looking forward to meeting all of the new freshers and I am excited to be your voice for our college, so I can make Whitelands as good as it can possibly be for everyone!

5. We heard that your performance in last year’s College Cup could be compared to the Steps comeback tour. Are you more optimistic for next year?

Unlike the Steps comeback tour, Whitelands College will be ‘stepping’ up their performance next year for College Cup games! With Ashley Wright as our captain, I am confident that our team will be stronger and more successful than ever over the next year!

MOLLIE VINGOE

MIKEY JAMES

1. What is the best feature of your college?

1. What is the best feature of your college?

The welcoming environment and friendly vibe is undoubtedly one of its best features.

Southlands has become a home away from home for me, and the people here are like a second family.

We have arguably the most picturesque campus at Roehampton.

But besides that, our best feature is our unity and spirit.

2. What is your college mascot and why?

2. What is your college mascot and why?

The shark – there is very little that can bring them down or defeat them. They are very good at adapting to new situations and environments. They are survivors.

3. What are the upcoming college events/ activites?

Our biggest events this term will be a shark welcoming party, an acoustic night, a quiz night, the Christmas masquerade ball and a trip to Thorpe Park (hopefully). Everyone is welcome to all of our events, no matter which college you live on.

4. What are you most looking forward to as College President?

I want to make sure that everyone feels as though they have a voice and that Southlands is not just where they live, but their home, and that they are proud of it.

5. The record books show that Southlands lost 7 nil in the Shitelands match last year.

After checking this was not a misprint are you more optimistic for next year?

I am extremely optimistic for next year because I know that we have a great team, which is only getting better. Like I said above, sharks cannot be brought down or defeated.

The Mighty Zeebra, not to be mistaken for the common zebra! Considered the underdogs, as the smallest college at Roehampton, the Zeebra represents our resilience, bravery and friendliness.

3. What are the upcoming college events/ activities?

Upcoming events will hopefully include a Sunday Variety Night each week, a bonfire for Froebel students on November 5th, an ‘old school’ sports day and much more.

4. What are you most looking forward to about being a College President?

Well really, it’s my chance to give back to the college that has done so much for me! Also, as a more mature student, representing others on academic and social levels with some of the top dogs is something I’m really looking forward to.

5. You have won the first ever College Cup, how confident are you that Froebel can retain this next year?

Extremely, in a word! Froebel has won this prestigious new cup mostly through representation.

We’re the college that is always willing to show up and get stuck in and I don’t see that changing.

roehamptonstudent.com 17

cup

The College Cup is one of RSUs newest initiatives and has had an incredibly successful first year.

The four colleges led by their college presidents and social secretaries compete in a schedule of events across the term, from sports matches and volunteering ventures, to assault courses and pop up prizes.

Students can also win points for their college for individual contributions, such as engagement with the Union, outstanding contribution, participation in volunteering and environmental initiatives and much, much more.

Each term the results are pulled in and assessed – colleges lose points for the highest number of noise complaints, fire alarms etc.

If you want to support your College in lifting the College Cup get in touch with your college president or college social secretary to find out how you can get involved.

18 FRESH MAGAZINE

“

One person out of the 9000 in Roehampton could have an idea that could make this place even better for all. This idea could lie within you.

“

the college

student

VOICE

STUDENT VOICE

e. lac p t rea a g day. n o t to mp t has a h i e tes Ro ng ion ra i k ma fact t in satis c e t asp ea ial he gr t n st t sse d put st e ’t boa o all an r n m o f d r cate the oul ed us e is ton c p l c e i h as t vo amp ice h nt Vo ctice. den Roeh e d u u t t a s it the S to pr The hout 9,000 nd put in f o t c i i a W graph heard demo easily be e s r e y div s can a ver here idea h t have i W sw ortunity to p p m o e ry t e v s us e in sy , allowing s students it ity. f o rs e s n iv n io U of the the opin e s e te it lu a m v m ly o tc rsity high ery relevan The Unive tion on ev ta n se re p student re

Every department in Roehampton is aiming for the same goal, and that is to make this place great for everyone.

The Sab batical te is loud, widesp am puts in tre m read an d embe endous amou dded to n ensure ts of time to m that all Roeham ake sure that t he Stud pton St e udents benefit nt Voice from it.

roehamptonstudent.com 19

Student union council dates for 2013/14

October 1 November 5 December 3 January 21 February 18 March 25 May 13

ST

U

dents' Union c

n u o

ci l

s.u.c meet in monte hall, froebel college 5pm-7pm

If you've got an opinion we want to hear it. Come along to S.U.C and discuss what matters to you as a Roehampton student.

20 FRESH MAGAZINE

Want to be a programme rep?

You have the power to initiate change that can directly benefit your peers and colleagues.

STUDENT VOICE

Our Programme Reps are elected students from each course. The role involves liaison with and representation of students on their course of study. They are responsible for presenting your views and opinions to members of staff and the Students’ Union.

The University and RSU are keen to understand what you think about your experiences in the classroom as well as outside of it. We are constantly looking to improve the services and provisions in place for our students and as a Student or Programme Rep you have the power to initiate change that can directly benefit your peers and colleagues.

If you’re interested in becoming a rep, talk to your programme convener or drop Gemma Foley, our Academic Adviser an email at g.kelly@roehamtpon.ac.uk.

sabbs beyond the boardroom The sabbatical team will be on a different campus each week approaching you for feedback.

Campaigns

Sabbatical officers are your main representational members of the Students’ Union. We sit on committees and boards of the University, where change happens, voicing the opinion of the student. For this to be successful we need to know what the student voice has to say!

Therefore, we must search beyond the boardroom, combing each campus for those gems that will make the University of Roehampton a better place for all. The Sabbatical team will be present on a different campus each week, approaching you for feedback. We do our best to sustain Roehampton as a student focused institution, keeping it a great place for everyone. Look out for the team and please come and tell us what you have to say. Keep an eye out for updates on what campus we’ll be visiting, and we’ll hope to see those great opinions come flooding in.

Raise awareness around issues that matter to you.

Campaigns at Roehampton provide opportunities for you to get involved in local, national and international campaigns throughout the entire academic year whether you are a student or staff member.

Our VP of Campaigns, Paul Dabell, will be putting together the schedule for the year ranging from events and activities that engage students across campus, to public demonstrations around London, VIP guest speakers and even chances to become involved by volunteering. There are many opportunities for you to get involved in the decision making to run campaigns and raise awareness around issues that matter to you, so be sure to get in touch. For more information, please contact Paul Dabell, our VP of Campaigns at Dabellp@roehampton. ac.uk

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STUDENT SUPPORT

STUDENT SUPPORT

We provide various types of student support at RSU. If you ever struggle with academic studies, finances, home sickness or you just want somebody to listen, we have our own student welfare within the Union but also have contact with every other type of welfare within the University.

academic advice In addition to the day to day departmental services the University offers, the Union also provides free impartial advice to students so students can make informed choices, engage with their programmes of study and understand the complaints and appeals processes. Our academic adviser at the RSU works alongside the Students’ Union President to co-ordinate and deliver training to our Programme Reps.

Student welfare Student welfare is of the upmost importance to the RSU and wider University. We want to make sure that you get the most out of your time at the University and are able to make safe and informed choices throughout.

Each college has a full time student welfare officer, so you are able to raise concerns or issues in a safe environment while being provided with advice and information to help you move forward. The Union also provides a point of contact for students in the form of our VP of Welfare, Rachael Blaney and the colleges have college tutors who support security with out-of-hours welfare issues. Our security services are always on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Whatever the problem, feel free to take advantage of our open door policy and visit the Union any time during the day. There will always be a smiling face to welcome you.

flat reps In all campus accommodation there is a resident flat or hall rep who is there to help, support and guide new students in the initial stages of their time at Roehampton. Each college also has a resident college tutor who deals with out-of-hours problems and advises the flat reps with issues or concerns that arise throughout the year.

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professional services

STUDENT SUPPORT

Student finance The Money Doctor works closely with the RSU to provide professional, impartial advice and information on finance to all students. We understand how difficult it can be for students entering Higher Education to support themselves (and others) financially while studying. We provide advice and support in all matters relating to student finance, including workshop sessions to empower students to take control of their own finances, and how to avoid the pitfalls. Make an appointment with Nicky Reid, the Money Doctor. Email n.reid@roehampton.ac.uk

Counselling & student welfare Students who think they may need counselling should first get in touch with a Student Welfare Officer, Chaplain or visit the Health and Wellbeing Adviser, so that appropriate forms of support can be identified.

If your situation is more serious and causing you to worry about your physical or psychological health you should contact your GP. In an emergency you should seek immediate help from the emergency services.

Contact the Medical Centre if you are registered, or wish to register there.

There is a drop-in service to see a Health and Wellbeing Adviser on Wednesday afternoons during term time for students who have questions or concerns about their own wellbeing, and anyone concerned about the wellbeing of students. The drop-in facility is intended for brief, informal and confidential discussions which may be all that is needed. If further support or help is required the Adviser will assist you to access other services.

Medical centre

Open between 9.30am and 4.30pm, MonFri. Located in Old Court, Froebel College.

The Medical Centre is in Old Court, Froebel College. This is a full NHS General Practice service for all Roehampton students within the practice area. It is a nurse-led service, which means you will be seen initially by a nurse who will be able to provide you with treatment or refer you to a GP or other service. The Medical Centre is open between 9.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday during term-time only. It is closed during university holidays, but students can attend Putneymead Medical Centre during this time. If you are visiting home, your family doctor will see you as a temporary patient.

Accommodation Roehampton is set within a traditional campus, the only one in London and our residences, teaching rooms and social spaces are located in beautiful parkland. We offer accommodation to students on campus but also have a dedicated officer to help you find accommodation off campus.

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Roehampton

student funding

Reading this article may help put some of your fears to rest as well as answer some of your questions

The Student Funding Office is located in the Information Centre on the Digby Stuart campus. Our aim is to assist students with the various funding issues that may occur whilst studying at University. The start of University or indeed the start of a new academic year can be an anxious time and reading this article may help put some of your fears to rest as well as answer some of your questions.

Where is my money?

Probably this is most common question students ask when commencing their studies or returning to University in a new academic year. Firstly you need to know that your funding will not be in your account until you have registered for your course (during Registration Week) and Roehampton have confirmed your attendance. This may take up to a week after your registration for continuing students and up to three weeks for new students.

When did you apply?

If you have applied late (from approximately 1 August onwards) your application may still be in the assessment process. Student Finance England (SFE) may also be waiting for your supporting documents in order to complete your assessment.

Because of the high numbers of students SFE is not able to call you regarding any missing information they need.

You will be sent a letter or an email but this may take a while so if you haven’t received your money we advise that you check your online correspondence and call SFE on 0141 243 3600/0845 300 5090.

Have you signed and returned your declaration to SFE? Remember you cannot receive your funding if you have not signed and returned your declaration. The declaration is sent to you along with the notification of your funding entitlement. This declaration is a contract between you and the Student Loans Company (SLC) confirming that you are aware you have been issued a loan, and that you understand the conditions of repayment.

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You must register at the start of each academic year.

If you have not completed the enrolment process then you are not considered a registered student and Roehampton cannot confirm your attendance for your funding to be released.

Has your National Insurance Number been verified?

If you are a new student your National Insurance Number (NINO) will have to be verified before any funding can be released. SLC will send your NINO to the Department for Work and Pensions after Roehampton has confirmed your registration.

Unfortunately this may be a slow process and can take anything from a week to 10 days (in addition to the week when Roehampton confirms your attendance).

Your NINO has to be confirmed only once. If you are a new student and you are receiving your first instalment. This does not apply if you are a continuing student.

“I’ve called Student Finance England and they insist none of the above apply to me.”

In which case, you will need to pay us a visit to Student Funding Office. Things do not always go according to a plan, but we will do everything we can to resolve any issue or answer the questions you may have.

Have you checked your bank account?

This seems obvious, but we have seen many students who checked their bank account the day or two before and did not realise they were paid that very morning.

So we ask you to check your bank account just before you come to see us.

Bursaries and Scholarships New Home Undergraduate Students Information about all Roehampton scholarships and eligibility criteria can be found on our Scholarship page. Visit www.roehampton.ac.uk and search for scholarships.

You do not need to apply for the scholarships. The Student Funding Office will write to all eligible students and will also advise SFE of a Fee Waiver where applicable in November 2013.

If you think you are eligible to receive a scholarship and have not heard by the end of November 2013 you should contact the Student Funding Office.

Continuing Home Undergraduate Students As a continuing student you might be eligible for the Roehampton bursary if you receive the maximum maintenance grant and are paying the £3465 tuition fee for the year 2013/14.

If you believe you are eligible for this bursary and have not received a letter by the end of November 2013 please contact the Student Funding Office.

Scholarships will continue to be paid to those students who received them in 2012/13 provided they have made satisfactory academic progression on their course.

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We will do everything we can to resolve any issue, or answer the questions you may have.

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Are you registered for your course?

STUDENT finance

Student Funding Richardson Building 014 studentfunding@roehampton.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0) 20 8392 3090 Written by Jan Absolon

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1 Get student deals www.thestudentroom.co.uk , www. moneysavingexpert.com and www. moneysupermarket.co.uk are all useful sites for discounts and deals.

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Learn to cook Learn to cook some basic dishes.

It will save you money in the long run as you won’t have to rely on convenience food and it’ll be healthier.

10 top tips for better budgeting

4 Visit the Money Doctor

Get a 16-25 rail card

If you feel you are getting into financial difficulty it is important to get help asap.

If problems are identified early on they will be easier to fix. The University has numerous support systems to help you.

Get a 16-25 young Persons railcard if you don’t have one already.

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An NUS Extra Card (RSU can give you more info on this) will also help you to significantly cut costs.

5

Sell your unwanted things Campus noticeboards, online, markets‌ there are loads of places you can sell your unwanted things.

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Customise your clothing London is full of quality charity shops and markets, so do some routing around whilst exploring the capital.

Use Freecycle

Rather than buying sofas and so on in advance if you are not residing in halls sign up to www. freecycle.org for unwanted but usable goods.

8 Write down your outgoings

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This might not sound appealing, but it works! You can then start to think about where you can cut costs so you have money for the things that are important.

Get part time work

Walk or cycle

Get in touch with Unitemps and/ or find yourself some summer work to earn some extra cash. Visit www. roehampton.ac.uk/Employability/ JobShop for more information.

Consider cycling or walking short distances rather than always using public transport. If you’re cycling, remember to always wear a helmet and make sure your bike has lights.

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PAID ent

ym o l p em tunities r oppo ampus on c

WANTED

STUDENT AMBASSADORS

Are you outgoing, hardworking and enthusiastic?

Would you like to gain valuable work experience and get paid for representing and promoting your University?

Ideal job for first year students!

Find us at Freshers’ Fair or contact ambassadors@roehampton.ac.uk for more information and an application form.

Get kitted out

dies

5 2 ÂŁ Hoo

MERCHANDISE All clothing available from RSU reception

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