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Step Ahead
Our Step Ahead events are designed to support new undergraduates, who belong to communities currently underrepresented at University, to have the best possible start to university life.
Step Ahead was the proud winner of the University's 2023 Pioneering Inclusivity Award. Step Ahead was praised for welcoming students from all backgrounds and helping students feel more confident about starting university.
By attending Step Ahead you will:
- feel more confident and prepared to start university
- make friends with other new students
- become familiar with the university campus
- get tips from current students
- receive study skills advice
- be made aware of the support available at York
- get answers to any questions you have about university life
This year the 2-day Step Ahead events will take place on:
- Tuesday 2nd September - Wednesday 3rd September
- Thursday 4th September - Friday 5th September
The 1-day Step Ahead event, for students who live within commuting distance of the university campus, will take place on:
Register Your Interest in Step Ahead
If you would like to receive updates about Step Ahead between now and September, including information on how to register for Step Ahead when registration opens in August, please complete this short Expression of Interest form.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may have some questions about Step Ahead, so we've compiled a helpful list of frequently asked questions.
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Do I have to attend Step Ahead?
No, it is entirely optional. Students who have attended Step Ahead tell us how much they benefited from it. In particular they tell us about the friends they made at Step Ahead and the confidence it gave them. There is lots of information about Step Ahead on these web pages so find out as much as you can about the events offered and, if you think you will benefit from attending, register as soon as you are able to.
How do I register for Step Ahead?
Registration for Step Ahead opens in the first week of August. You can only register for Step Ahead when you have a confirmed place at the University of York. We will add a booking link to the main Step Ahead webpage once registration has opened.
If you would like to receive updates about Step Ahead between now and September, including information on how to sign up when registration opens in August, please complete this short Expression of Interest form.
I’m nervous about attending Step Ahead as I won’t know anyone, should I still come?
Definitely! It’s unlikely any of our Step Ahead students will know anyone when they first arrive at Step Ahead so everyone is in the same position. Our friendly Step Ahead Student Helpers will be on hand to give you a friendly welcome and put you at ease. They will also help you get chatting to other new students. Over 80% of students who attended Step Ahead in 2024 told us that they made friends at these events.
Is there somewhere to go if I feel overwhelmed while I’m at Step Ahead?
Yes there are lots of spaces you can make use of. There are some quiet spaces close to the lecture theatre as well as a craft area. You are welcome to use these areas at any time. There is also easy access to the outside.
Step Ahead is too far away for me to travel, is it possible to attend virtually?
Unfortunately, Step Ahead is only offered in person as the social aspect of the event and the opportunity to meet other students is one of the key benefits. We understand not everyone is able to travel to York for Step Ahead and if this is the case we are happy to send you the slides after the events have taken place if you complete this Presentations Request Form
For any questions about Step Ahead please email us at stepahead@york.ac.uk
