WELCOMES YOU… The University of Cumbria Students’ Union (UCSU) is a studentled charity, representing the views and interests of over 9,000 members; the students at the University of Cumbria. Welcome to UCSU! You are now a member of both UCSU and the National Union of Students (NUS). Together, we’ll put you in the driving seat of your education. Our motto, ‘Supporting and representing you to achieve your ambitions,’ is at the heart of every action we take and decision we make – our job is to help you make the most out of your university experience. We ensure that your voice is heard and that you can see how your views shape your student experience at the University of Cumbria. UCSU’s team of elected Full Time Officers work around the clock to enhance your time at university, and through our effective Student Academic Reps system, we aim to ensure your education is a first-class experience. All UCSU officers and staff are passionate about helping you get the most out of your time at the University of Cumbria - wherever you’re based. We’re always happy to welcome students in to our offices in Lancaster and both Carlisle sites – come and say hello! We also visit the smaller campus sites regularly to ensure we represent all of our members – wherever you’re based, and whatever your mode of study. If you’re on placement, a distance learner or studying from home, we’re here to represent and support you too. Our website, www.ucsu.me provides a virtual ‘hub’ where everyone can access all of the opportunities and services we provide whenever and wherever you need to. Our affiliation with the National Union of Students (NUS) means we are part of a voice of students across the UK, campaigning for the changes you think are important. So, if you have any ideas for enhancing your university experience, big or small, get in touch with us, and together we’ll strive to make the changes you want to see. You can also save loads of money off fashion, food, travel, insurance and so much more by getting an NUS Extra Card. This is the best discount card for students and you can start saving straight away. The card costs just £12 for 12 months, and you can save even more by ordering a 3 year card. Find out more about the discounts and how to order your card at www.nus.org.uk Volunteering and student groups are two things we’re particularly ‘big’ on at UCSU. Our proximity to the beautiful Lake District as well as community projects in the cities of Lancaster and Carlisle mean that there are countless opportunities throughout the year to get out and about and make the most of our wonderful locations. We have dozens of different volunteering opportunities, and also help students to facilitate their own volunteering experiences – so if there’s something you want to do, let us know and we’ll help you make the most of it. Maybe you’d like to apply the learning from your course, develop your skills, help people in the local community or just try something completely new. Whatever you’re into, UCSU is here to make it happen. www.ucsu.me/volunteering
UCSU has a wide variety of Student Groups, societies and sports teams to participate in. They provide a great opportunity for you to meet students with similar interests to you and to make new friends. By participating in one of the many sports teams, you can compete nationally in the British Universities & Colleges Sports League (BUCS), continue your passion or maybe try something new! You may even want to start your own group, society or sports team. That’s no problem – we’ll provide you with all the information and support you need to get your new venture off the ground, and help promote the group so that other students can join in too. www.ucsu.me/groupshome
Sometimes things don’t always go to plan, but don’t panic! UCSU offers a friendly, free and independent support service - whether it’s a question about an assignment, course issues, non-academic problems, your health & wellbeing or you just want an informal chat, UCSU is here to make sure you can bounce back! We hope you’ll enjoy your time at the University of Cumbria, and remember, whatever it is you want to get involved in, or whatever problems you may experience – academic or otherwise, UCSU is here to help you get the best university experience possible! We can’t wait to meet you, and if there’s anything you think we can help you with to make the most of your time at University, let us know – we’re a very friendly bunch!
Best wishes, Adam Mather (Welfare & Support Officer) Aden Fry (Community & Partnership Officer) Izaak Koroneos (Academic Officer)