Category: Student life

Essential tips for international students settling into life in the UK 

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Moving to a new country is exciting… but it can also feel overwhelming. Here are some simple tips to help you settle in and make the most of your experience. 

Get familiar with your local area 

Take some time to explore your campus and the amazing city you’ve chosen to study in! 

Feeling confident about your surroundings can help you feel at home more quickly. Find out where the nearest supermarkets, pharmacies, banks and transport links are.  

Most large supermarkets in Bristol have an international food aisle plus there are lots of international supermarkets across the city!  

Manage your finances 

Keep track of your spending and remember to plan for essentials such as accommodation, food and travel. Setting up a UK bank account and creating a budget can make daily life much easier. Plus the Blackbullion app is a great way to budget – and enter student competitions! 

Build new connections  

As you settle in, keep connected with friends and family back home – but be sure to make the most of the opportunity to meet new people. 

  • Our Student Life team host a huge range of events both on and off campus.  

Don’t be afraid to start conversations! There will be lots of other students feeling how you feel, so why not make the first move and say hi? 

Look after your wellbeing 

As you settle into new routines, make sure you’re eating well, getting enough sleep and regular exercise. It might sound obvious, but these will help you settle in and feel your best. 

If you’re feeling homesick or stressed, we recommend the Wisdom app. It’s free to download and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s here for when you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or just need some inspiration to manage your wellbeing. You can talk to a counsellor via WhatsApp or a call. 

Embrace your new home 

Trying local food, exploring nearby attractions and learning about UK traditions can make your experience more rewarding.  

At the same time, celebrate and share your own culture with others – diversity is one of the things that makes uni life so special. 

Most importantly, be kind to yourself 

Settling into life in the UK will take some time and that’s ok. Pace yourself and enjoy it!  

New digital platform helps you take control of uni life

Author Student Communications | Posted on

A new digital platform designed to make it easier to access support and manage everyday university life has launched for students. 

MY STUDENT LIFE brings together a range of resources, information and support services in one place, helping you find what you need, when you need it. Through the platform, you can access guidance relating to your course and timetable, disability support, wellbeing, money matters, coaching options and much more. 

The new platform also allows you to track enquiries you have submitted and find answers to frequently asked questions, giving you greater visibility and control over your student experience. By bringing key services together in a single location, MY STUDENT LIFE makes it easier to navigate university life and access support quickly. 

Over time MY STUDENT LIFE will become a central hub, allowing you to access different types of support and to book appointments with Student Support Advisers and Student Experience Coaches. 

MY STUDENT LIFE sits alongside MYUWE which remains the place to enrol, update your personal details and view your timetable.  

From 3 August 2026 you can log in and start exploring. 

The team behind the platform is already exploring additional features and functionality, with further developments planned in response to student feedback and changing needs throughout the academic year. If you would like to get involved in user experience testing and feedback sessions, email: ux@uwe.ac.uk  

Start of Year Guide

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Start of year can be a busy time as new arrivals get settled into life at UWE Bristol.

This handy guide features some of the most commonly asked questions to support students.

Registration

How do I register?

Go to the Registration tab in MYUWE. 

How do I get a timetable? 

Register in MYUWE. A timetable will show in MYUWE three working days later. Your Starting Block timetable will appear automatically.

Where do I get my ID card from? 

New students: If you’d uploaded a photo to MYUWE, your card will be ready two working days later from the campus you study at.  

Returning students: You can purchase a replacement card via the Online Store.  

My student loan hasn’t arrived. 

Register in MYUWE and we will confirm your registration to the loan company who will release the funds to you at the start of term. 

Life at Frenchay

Which buses go to the city centre?  

The Metrobus goes regularly from Frenchay to the centre – look out for M1 and M3. You need to buy your ticket before you board. 

Can I park at Frenchay?  

There’s limited parking at Frenchay. If you’re going to park here, you need a permit. Why not think about cycling instead? Check out this handy cycling map for guidance.

I’m so confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room? 

If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 2S706, then you’re looking for 2 – Level 2; S – S Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 706 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this campus map or you can also use this interactive map to find directions.

If I have a question about something where can I go?  

Staff at our InfoPoint will be happy to help you. You can find it in D Block – 1D11. 

Life at City Campus

Where do I catch a bus to town? 

We recommend catching buses from Blackmoors Lane rather than anywhere else as they are much more frequent there. 

How do I get between Bower Ashton, Arnolfini and Spike Island? 

There’s no UWE parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island, so you might want to consider public transport, cycling or walking. Check out this handy cycling map for guidance. If you need help getting around Bower Ashton you can use this map or our interactive map.

Can I park at Bower Ashton?   

There’s very limited parking at Bower. If you’re going to park here, you need a permit. If the car park is full, you can try Ashton Court just up the hill (although that’s not free). There’s no UWE Bristol car parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island – you’ll need to use public car parks. 

If I have a question about something where can I go? 

Staff at our InfoPoints will be happy to help you. The Bower Ashton one is B Block, opposite the Art Shop. There’s also one on the fourth floor of the Arnolfini. 

How can I print?  

You can print ordinary things like A4 black and white via Pharos. You’ll be given £15 on your account at the start of the year. 

If you want to print something more specialist, visit the Digital Print Bureau in 0C008. 

Where can I use specialist software?  

There are loads of opportunities for you to access specialist software, depending on what you need it for. This includes the library, and specialist computer suites in D Block, G Block and B block at Bower Ashton, as well as software at the Arnolfini and Spike Island. 

Where can I buy art supplies?  

Go wild in the Art Shop! You get an £80 materials allowance each year and you can use it at the Art Shop or the Digital Design Studio. 

I’ve lost something – where might it be?  

Everything makes its way to the Security office in F Block, check here first! Or email uwecard@uwe.ac.uk to find out if something is there. 

Life at Glenside

I’m so confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room? 

If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 1F06, then you’re looking for 1 – Level 1; F – F Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 06 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this map or our interactive map. 

How do I order my placement name badge? 

New student: If you’ve completed your online registration, a placement name badge will be ordered for you and it’ll be issued at one of your teaching sessions before you start your simulation skills sessions. 

Returning student: If you need a replacement placement name badge, email Infopoint@uwe.ac.uk and they’ll order one for you and email you when your badge is ready to collect. 

How do I order my placement uniform? 

If you’ve completed your online registration in MYUWE, you’ll be emailed details of how to order your placement uniform during induction week. If you’ve registered and haven’t received the email, contact the Information Point. 

Are there showers and changing rooms at Glenside? 

Yes! These can be found in 1E06 for males and 1E09 for females. You can ask Glenside Reception staff for a code to access the rooms – you’ll need to show your student ID card. 

Are there student lockers at Glenside? 

Lockers for short term use are available in the changing rooms in 1E06 and 1E09. To hire a locker for long term use, please email travel.plan@uwe.ac.uk to request one. 

I’ve just started my course at Glenside – I applied for the NHS LSF Training Grant, when will I receive my first payment? 

You’ll receive it in November, if: 

  • you started your course in September 
  • you’ve completed your student online registration.

We’ll confirm your attendance to the NHSBSA in early November to release the funds to you. It can take up to 10 working days for payment to be processed once we’ve confirmed your attendance.  

I have a timetabled teaching session in room 0SC014 at Glenside – where is it? 

0SC014 is located at the back of the Glenside Student Centre (Student Union) building. It is the big brown wooden building located near car park 10. 

How do I contact the Accommodation Office at Glenside? 

Glenside Accommodation Service office is located near the Hub in 1H29. Reach them here. 

How can I contact Occupational Health Service at Glenside?

OH staff are based in 1G26, however they’re only on-site when attending booked appointments. 

If I have a question about something, where can I go?

Staff at our InfoPoint will be happy to help you. You can find it in Glenside Library in D Block. 

Your Course

I already feel like my course isn’t right for me? Can I switch? 

Please don’t rush into a decision, it sometimes takes a while to settle in to university life. First, chat to your programme leader or your academic personal tutor and explain to them what you’re struggling with. They can offer support and guidance. Also, why not book an appointment with one of our Student Experience Coaches?

How do I become a student rep? 

The Students’ Union runs a student rep system, and ideally look for one student rep for every 25 students on your year of study on your course. They are usually chosen at the start of the academic year, so speak to your programme leader about this if you haven’t already received information about it. 

Money and Finance

Use the resources of the UWE Bristol Student Money Service. They have plenty of online information as well as an enquiry form to support and advise you.  There are additional resources on Money and Finance, including an enquiry form for tuition fee issues. 

My student loan is delayed. What can I do? 

Students can apply for a short-term loan and repay after 30 days with no interest added. 

My rent is really high and I can’t afford it/I’m struggling with money. What can I do?  

Firstly we advise students to apply for all the funding they are eligible for from Student  

Finance and then apply for the Student Support Fund. Also, they could look for part-time work alongside their studies, and sign up to BlackBullion for free money education. 

How do I find a job? 

The Students’ Union JobShop advertise part time jobs both on and off campus.

I’m an international student – is there any support for living/course costs?  

Yes, the International Student Support Fund. You can also apply for the placement loan if you incur placement costs. 

Accommodation and Housing

Information regarding accommodation, including who to contact about UWE Accommodation issues, can be found on our website. The Students’ Union Advice Centre can also provide support regarding housing and accommodation issues.

I’m struggling financially and can’t afford to pay my rent. What should I do?

Firstly we advise students to apply for all the funding they are eligible for from Student  

Finance and then apply for the Student Support Fund. Also, they could look for part-time work alongside their studies, and sign up to BlackBullion for free money education. 

I haven’t managed to find anywhere to live. Who can help me? 

Don’t panic – there’s lots of help out there to make sure you find somewhere to live. The Students’ Union can support you, so check out their advice pages. 

I’m struggling with my housemates and I really want to move.

In the first instance it’s probably best to see if you can resolve any difference you might have. Learning to live with other people can be tricky, and the SU has some great tips and advice that might help. If you really feel you need to move then contact the SU Advice Centre for support. 

Wellbeing and Support

I’m struggling with my course? I feel like I’m behind with the work and need some support. 

If you’re struggling with any aspect of your course, contact your Academic Personal Tutor. You could also consider booking an appointment with one of our Student Experience Coaches to get one-to-one support. UWE also offers study support workshops and online help for a range of issues, including essay and report writing, referencing, and time management. 

I’m an International student and I’m struggling to get settled in Bristol. 

There are a range of targeted support services who can help you make the most of your time here in Bristol, as well as specific events for International students. You can also contact our Global Student Support Team. 

I need some help for my mental health. Where can I get the support I need?

If you’re struggling with your mental health and wellbeing then please don’t hesitate in reaching out for support. Download the Wisdom app, which offers live chat and video calls with counsellors. Also check out our Wellbeing Service webpage which includes a range of self-help resources and guidance. 

I’m concerned about my drug or alcohol use at the moment, and really feel like I could do with some help. 

UWE Bristol does not condone or condemn the use of drugs including alcohol; we are focused on providing students with the knowledge to be safe and feel supported. We operate a policy of harm reduction that prioritises the welfare and wellbeing of our students and wider community. We have a free Drugs and Alcohol Service if you would like support from a professional. 

I’m looking for support following sexual assault? 

We have an Anti-Sexual Violence Service here at UWE Bristol which provides a non-judgemental, inclusive and confidential safe space for you to seek support if you have experienced sexual trauma of any kind, even if you don’t want to report something.

Disability Support

I have a disability and feel nervous about how this will be managed during my time at university. 

Please don’t be nervous, there is a whole range of support available to you. If you haven’t already done so, make sure you have disclosed your disability to the Disability Service. This Disability Support Guide covers everything you need to know. 

I am neurodiverse, and would like to know what support is available to me.

The Access and Learning Strategies team are specialist practitioners in neurodivergence and mental health. They offer a range of services including groups, workshops, drop-ins and one-to-one support, along with neurodiversity screening. 

Library and Careers

I want to start thinking about my future career, as well as looking for part-time work or internships while I study. Who can help with this?

There are so many opportunities available here for you at UWE Bristol: 

You can find part-time and term-time roles that work around your studies by visiting the JobShop. 

InfoHub  is your first stop for careers advice, job listings, and help finding internships. 

I want to start thinking about my career in the creative industries – how can I do this? 

Learn how to talk about your creative skills and experience in a way employers understand. We offer regular sessions to explore freelancing, running your own business, building your CV, covering letters, and confidence. UWE Careers & Enterprise Padlet 

Use our Showcase website to develop your online presence and portfolio. 

Get freelancing experience and opportunities through our NewWave creative agency. Fill out this form to register your interest. 

Join groups like Bristol Creative Industries for job alerts, networking, and events. 

Make time for your soul

Author Student Communications | Posted on

We talk a lot about mental and physical health. What about spiritual health?

Today we’re turning our attention to looking after your soul.

Look in

Student life can be very busy, with studying, socialising and part-time work. It can be easy to ‘just get on with it’ and not take time to reflect on what’s happening in your life – the good, the bad and the ugly.

Make sure you take time to take stock. Don’t let life just happen to you.

Take some time out to just think. Some people find journalling helps – either with free text, lists, mind maps or drawing.

Here are some pointers to get you thinking:

  • Where am I growing at the moment?
  • What is ‘giving’ to me and what is ‘taking’ from me?
  • Are the decisions I’m making now ones I’ll be happy with in one, two- or five-years’ time?

Or you can reflect with apps – there are some good ones available.

Look out

Being linked to a community is good for the soul.

A recent survey in the UK found that people who are part of teams, hobby clubs, community or religious groups are 24% more likely to report feeling happy.

UWE has loads of student societies for a broad range of interests and if there’s not one that you like the look of, grab some like-minded students and set one up!

Volunteering is also good for the soul.

A national charity reported that 92% of volunteers agreed that volunteering had helped their mental health.

Giving out gives back to you!

Why not check out the range of volunteering opportunities we can connect you with?

Look up

Nature

Being in green spaces reduces stress, anxiety and depression by lowering cortisol (the stress hormone). Being in nature can help us to put our problems in perspective, without us even realising that’s what’s happening!

Being in nature can also foster a sense of mindfulness, grounding us in the present moment – not rushing ahead – and encouraging reflection.

Not only that – nature can inspire a sense of awe, connection and peace. We feel things we don’t feel when we’re indoors or on our phones.

Faith, religion and spirituality

Regardless of your belief, our campus Chaplaincy team are here for you; whether you have an established faith or want to explore faith and spirituality.

This is what student Bip said about Chaplaincy:

“Chaplaincy has been a great space for me to get out my thoughts ranging from religious struggle to bereavement. It’s a space that allows you to organise your thoughts, problems and whatever you may be dealing with and having someone like the Chaplain listen and provide a fresh perspective on things can go a long way. I recommend it to anyone, whether you’re religious, atheistic or anything in between.”

Research across psychology, sociology and health sciences has found that being religious or engaging in spirituality can be beneficial in a range of ways.

  • Prayer, meditation and rituals provide calm, structure, and coping mechanisms.
  • Religious faith often increases endurance and helps people cope with illness and grief.
  • Belief in a higher person or purpose can bring hope, comfort and a sense of meaning.

Look after yourself

We want you to flourish at uni – to be healthy and happy and grow during your time here.

Make sure you’re making time for yourself in every way possible and reach out if you need a little extra support!

Tips for Surviving the UK winter: Guide for International students

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Priya Dashini Selvanathan is currently studying a Master’s in Health Psychology and is a Mature Student Advocate.

My idea of winter came straight from the movies, picturing myself sitting in a nice, cosy café, people watching and enjoying the slow, cosy pace that it brings along. However, as someone who has been living in a tropical country like Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, my perception of experiencing my first winter in Bristol was far from ideal.

I had to deal with homesickness, staying on top of back-to-back deadlines and on top of that learning the art of layering and dressing for the cold. My energy plunged with the temperature, my mood was consistently low, and the constant stress was a physical weight—I finally understood the reality of seasonal depression.

Looking back, one thing that helped me survive my first winter in the UK was the connection with peers, and engaging with free events available at the University, as well as free events around Bristol.

My top 3 tips are:

  1. Connection
    It is easy to stay in and feel overwhelmed to venture out. I noticed that slowly stepping out of my comfort zone and interacting with my coursemates and other international students helped me feel less lonely. I arranged a few coffee meet-up sessions that turned into friendships that I now cherish. Forming connections and friendships abroad in a foreign country is not an easy task, but I learnt that if I don’t put myself out there and try, I will never know and be limited to my fears.
  2. Movement
    Hibernation mood hits hard during winter months. I was either spending time staring at my screen completing assignments or mostly hibernating in bed. This routine made me feel sluggish and made me miss home even more. I realised that by using the UWE Move App, I could force myself to book some exercise classes like yoga and climbing. These classes not only help me get out of the house, but they also greatly improve my energy levels and mood. I noticed that I tend to feel much better after engaging in some movement.
  3. Perspective
    A shift in perspective occurred when I finished reading the book “ Wintering” by Katherine May. The book highlights a lot about embracing winter and noticing how the cold teaches us to slow down and focus inward more towards ourselves. I learnt that I have no control over the weather, but I do have control over how I respond to it and adapt to it. I started having a cosy night time routine that I looked forward to, where I would read a thriller novel and have a hot cup of camomile tea, and end the night with a simple skin care routine.

It is not going to be easy experiencing your first winter abroad, but do know that there is a wide array of support available. Feel free to reach out to our student advocates on Teams for a friendly chat.

How to join the CHSS Advocate Programme

Interested in being part of this supportive community? Whether you’re looking for peer support, a place to share your experiences, or simply want to connect with others, the CHSS Advocate Programme is here for you.
To join a group or attend one of our meetups, follow the link to our online space and sign up:

For more information, please email the Widening Participation Team: CHSS.WPTeam@uwe.ac.uk

You Said, We Did: Trans and Non-Binary Policy Update

Author Student Communications | Posted on

The University has updated its Trans and Non-Binary Policy in line with the Supreme Court Ruling in April 2025.

Thank you again to everyone who took the time to share their views on this topic. The feedback we received was thoughtful, detailed and personal. It has helped us better understand the emotional and practical implications of the updates to the policy, and has informed several actions we’ve already taken, and will continue to take, to support our community.

Below we outline what you told us and what we’ve done in response:

How are students protected from discrimination while on placement?

We provide pre-placement guidance and checklists for students, outlining expectations, rights and reporting routes. We also have Support During Your Placement resources. If you experience inappropriate or unacceptable behaviour you are encouraged to use Report + Support; a confidential reporting tool.

How will the University prevent harassment and ensure safety for LGBTQIA+ students using facilities?

We’ve communicated clearly to both students and staff that no-one is expected to monitor or police the use of facilities. Discrimination in any form is not tolerated. We’ve outlined our community’s expectations, grounded in dignity, compassion and respect, and we ask everyone to actively uphold these values to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all.

You can use Report + Support if you do experience or witness inappropriate behaviour.

Are students able to use their chosen names?

Yes, students can continue to update their preferred name across university systems directly or with support from Information Points or Student Support Advisers.

How will accessible toilets be reassigned? Reassigning accessible toilets as gender-neutral reduces access for disabled people and risks outing trans individuals.

Only one accessible toilet has been temporarily reassigned within Northavon House as part of an interim arrangement. Longer-term provision is planned to ensure there are sufficient gender-neutral and accessible toilets within this building.

Are there gender-neutral toilets at Arnolfini?

Gender-neutral toilets are available in Arnolfini on floors 0 and 2 and in the café.

Are there plans for more gender-neutral facilities at Glenside?

Refurbishment plans include improvements to H Block at Glenside.

How were the policy changes shared and communicated, and could they have been shared earlier?

Meetings were held with the Vice-Chancellor and interested staff groups in July before any policy changes were made. Communications were shaped collaboratively with trade unions, staff networks and the Students’ Union.
We will continue to engage openly and actively listen to affected communities to ensure that future changes are inclusive, transparent and aligned with our shared values.

Why was the new trans policy rolled out so abruptly?

These changes were required by law, so the university needed to implement them promptly to remain compliant. The changes to the policy were implemented six months later to ensure students and staff had up to date and correct policy information for the new academic year.

Has the university engaged trans and non-binary students with the policy changes?

The University did not consult on the policy changes as we were required to comply with the law. Therefore, there was no option for consultation on the changes to the policy. During the Equality Impact Analysis process, we engaged staff and student groups to understand the impacts of these changes. We also offered wellbeing sessions, workshops, and held student drop-ins to ensure voices were heard. Support was signposted throughout, and our aim was to listen and respond to concerns about how these changes might affect individuals.

How can the university ensure that inclusivity is considered when planning field trips for LGBTQIA+ students?

To keep everyone safe and supported, the university asks that all field trips have a completed risk assessment. This includes considering any potential risks and planning reasonable adjustments for people with protected characteristics. If students would like help discussing their adjustments, Student Support Advisers are available to provide guidance and support. Single-sex accommodation is sometimes asked about, but field trips are not a blanket requirement. These will be addressed on a case-by-case basis through the risk assessment process.

Support and wellbeing

Discrimination of any kind is not tolerated at UWE Bristol. If you have any concerns, please use Report and Support, which is designed to handle concerns confidentially and respectfully. If you need support, please access our wellbeing support services.

We want to reaffirm that everyone in our university community deserves to feel respected, supported and safe, especially when perspectives differ. We are committed to ensuring all our students are treated with dignity and compassion.

We will continue to engage with student societies, staff networks, trade unions, and other groups to ensure that the University is a respectful and inclusive place for everyone.

Adjusting to UWE as a mature international student

Author Student Communications | Posted on

By Priya Dashini, MSc Health Psychology

I was excited and looking forward to my experience studying in the UK. Before enrolling in my course, I had the opportunity to get on a Teams call with my module leader and find out more about the course. This helped me feel more certain in my decision to move from my comfort zone in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Bristol.

The journey was exciting, but it brought its own set of challenges; the main one was experiencing my first winter in the UK, as well as dealing with loneliness and homesickness. I did not anticipate how isolating and difficult it could be. The familiar faces, comfort foods, and navigating an 8-hour time difference from my home country were overwhelming. I expected to feel adjusted and settled in Bristol within a month, but looking back, that was an unrealistic timeline to set, and it only made me feel even more out of place.

As a mature international student, adjusting to academics in a new country and leaving my role as a full-time counsellor was challenging. In wanting to push myself out of my comfort zone, I attended various UWE events, including the Global café team’s weekly coffee session that occurs every Wednesday from 12:00-13:00. I found the team friendly and welcoming. In attending the coffee session, I connected with other international students, shared experiences and challenges that I encountered and formed a sense of belonging.

In addition to attending my classes, I began following the UWE student union and other relevant social media accounts to stay up to date on free activities for students. The UWE Move App quickly became one of my favourite apps, and I was impressed by the wide range of free sports opportunities available. When looming assignment deadlines began to cause stress, I decided to book a climbing session through the app. This experience proved invaluable for my mental well-being. The climbing instructor was encouraging and supportive, and I enjoyed meeting other students who shared similar interests. I made it a priority to attend several climbing sessions as I was working through my dissertation, and it really helped me feel overall better physically and mentally.

My biggest takeaway for mature international students is not to be afraid to try and explore all the free events and activities available for students. Finance can be a stressor, but there are many free events hosted by the student life team, the global café team, UWE sports, and the student union that will truly enhance your student experience at UWE. In looking for a change of scenery, I love doing assignments at the Bristol Central Library, walking up the steep roads of Park Street, and just reading a book at a nearby café. In my role now as a mature student advocate, I am looking forward to hosting events and activities for students to feel a sense of belonging and have a safe space to engage and interact with other students.

How to join the CHSS Advocate Programme

Interested in being part of this supportive community? Whether you’re looking for peer support, a place to share your experiences, or simply want to connect with others, the CHSS Advocate Programme is here for you.
To join a group or attend one of our meetups, follow the link to our online space and sign up:

For more information, please email the Widening Participation Team: CHSS.WPTeam@uwe.ac.uk

How can you invest in your Studies?

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Have you ever taken the time to think about the considerable investment you are making by choosing to study at university? We’re not just talking about the money (although we know that’s significant) – it’s also the time, energy and effort that you are putting into your degree.   

We want you to focus on really maximising that investment, and make some choices which will help you get the most out of your time here at UWE. 

What simple things can you do? 

  • Attendance. Your course is the main reason you are here, right? And you are spending a lot of money for this teaching, so it doesn’t make sense to regularly skip classes. We know there might sometimes be reasons why you can’t make it onto campus, but try to plan your week to give you the best possible chance of attending those lectures.  
  • Engagement. It’s not enough to just turn up to lectures or teaching sessions, you need to really BE there. Be an active participant on your course and you really will see the benefits. What does this look like? Ask questions. Get involved in discussions. Do extra reading. Reply to emails. All of this will drastically improve your learning and help you get more out of your studies. 

Next steps? 

Even the most engaged students can always find more ways to improve their studies and expand their learning while they are at uni. 

  • Study support – Independent study can feel hard sometimes, and it’s completely normal to feel stretched and challenged by your course. There’s so much support available to you – reading and writing skills, tips on referencing, how to prepare for assessments. Whatever you need, you will be able to find someone who can help. 
  • Academic personal tutor – Your tutor is there to support and guide you through your course. Make the most of this contact and talk to them about any struggles you are having or any areas where you want to improve. 
  • PAL – Peer-assisted learning is a great opportunity to get help from someone who has been in your shoes. It’s usually a student on the same course as you, but in the year above, and they can mentor you and help with any bits of your studies you feel unsure of. 
  • Student Experience Coaches – If you are feeling overwhelmed, or you want help getting better at managing your workload or being more productive, then why not contact a Student Experience Coach? Book your free appointment on Infohub. 

Hopefully all that info has given you something to think about. Remember, you only get out of something what you put in (it sounds like a cliche, but it’s so true).  

You’ve made a huge investment to be here – make the most of it! 

Invest in your self
invest in your future

How can you invest in your Future?

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Have you ever taken the time to think about the considerable investment you are making by choosing to study at university? We’re not just talking about the money (although we know that’s significant) – it’s also the time, energy and effort that you are putting into your degree.   

We want you to focus on really maximising that investment, and make some choices which will help you get the most out of your time here at UWE. 

Start planning and preparing for your future now, so you’re ready to hit the ground running after graduation. 

It’s worth remembering that life as a UWE Bristol student gives you access to a huge range of support services and opportunities and it’s worth making the most of these. You’ve already paid for it, so take advantage of it!   

  • Careers and Enterprise – Make the most of our free support service. Your time at uni will fly by, and you want to be in the best possible position when you graduate.  
  • Start your Personalised Career Plan – Fill in a short questionnaire so you can receive tailored careers info, resources and events to help you start planning for your future. 
  • Look at LinkedIn courses – these are free for UWE Bristol students and are a great way of building your skills and enhancing your CV. 
  • Work experience and placements – Get first-hand experience to help you work out what career path you want to follow. 
  • Why not travel abroad? – Global experiences are a great way to expand your horizons, meet new people and develop skills you didn’t even know about. 
  • Use social media – Follow @UWECareers on Instagram to find out the latest updates on events, employer drop-ins and workshops. 
  • Innovation and enterprise – Thinking about starting your own business? Get advice and support to develop your enterprise skills. 
  • Volunteering – Use your talents and skills to give something back. 
  • Thinking about your CV? – Start thinking about your future by taking on roles and responsibilities which will not only help you develop and grow, but also look great on your CV. Looking to becoming a student rep, a student ambassador or joining the student consultation panel. 

Hopefully all that info has given you something to think about. Remember, you only get out of something what you put in (it sounds like a cliche, but it’s so true).  

You’ve made a huge investment to be here – make the most of it! 

invest in your self
invest in your studies

How can you invest in your Self?

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Have you ever taken the time to think about the considerable investment you are making by choosing to study at university? We’re not just talking about the money (although we know that’s significant) – it’s also the time, energy and effort that you are putting into your degree.   

We want you to focus on really maximising that investment, and make some choices which will help you get the most out of your time here at UWE. 

Growing as a person is a key part of coming to university. It’s an amazing opportunity to meet new people, find new passions and interests, and expand your horizons to find out who you really are and what you want from life. 

Make sure you are embracing all these free activities, events and opportunities. 

  • Centre for Sport – The free MOVE programme gives you access to more than 100 weekly exercise classes and sessions, so make the most of this fantastic facility.   
  • Centre for Music – Looking to learn some new skills? Want to make some new friends? Check out the huge range of opportunities available on campus – membership is completely free! 
  • Join a society – It’s so easy to find people with the same passions and interests as you. Take a look at the long list of societies available, and if you can’t find the perfect one for you, you can just start your own! 
  • UWE Events Diary – If you’re ever at a loose end, or simply looking to get out and meet new people, make sure you find out what’s going on at your campus. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something that suits you. 
  • Explore Bristol – You’re living in a vibrant, creative, edgy city. Don’t let that pass you by, get out there and explore everything it has to offer. 
  • Go global – Are you interested in travelling the world? University is a great time to look at what overseas opportunities are available to you. 
  • Download the Wisdom app – If you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or just need some inspiration to manage your wellbeing, the Wisdom app allows you to access resources and support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Hopefully all that info has given you something to think about. Remember, you only get out of something what you put in (it sounds like a cliche, but it’s so true).  

You’ve made a huge investment to be here – make the most of it! 

Read more: How can you invest in your Self?
invest in your studies
Invest in your future

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