Things to know this week - 28 February 2022

Posted on 28 February 2022

Your undergraduate student news summary of key things happening this week.

Covid update summary:
Protect. Respect. Be kind.

‘Living with Covid’ University update
Following the Government’s relaxation of all Covid restrictions, read the latest University update on Covid measures.

1. IMPORTANT: Maintain good IT security

Now is a good time to check on your IT security. Remember to:

• Enable two-factor authentication by Tuesday 22 March and use it for access to apps and systems
• Don't reply or click on links in unsolicited emails asking for usernames or passwords - if in doubt, go directly to the web page or app you use and check there
• Don't download software from unknown locations and always be suspicious of free or cheap versions of popular software packages
• Choose strong passwords
• Keep everything updated - your antivirus, operating systems and other software

See our IT security information for full details on how to protect yourself from cyber attack.

If you think your machine has been attacked or other activity of concern is taking place, contact the York CERT (Computer Emergency Response Team).

2. University Mental Health Day

This year, we’re expanding University Mental Health Day into a whole week of activities, under the theme ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’. With a packed list of events including wellbeing workshops to an Instagram takeover with York Student Minds, there are a range of options and resources to explore. See also our collection of wellbeing resources and support channels.

3. Coping with uncertainty

With current world events, plus our entering a new phase of ‘living with Covid’, you may be feeling unsettled at the moment. Come to an informal ‘Coping with uncertainty’ wellbeing workshop on Thursday 3 March for advice and guidance on managing stress and worry that can come during a period of change. See also our advice on dealing with anxiety.

4. Eat happy - with pancakes!

Cooking together and sharing a meal can do wonders for your mental health - and pocket. Why not make pancakes for Pancake Day on Tuesday 1 March? Read our recipes to help share mealtimes and then share with us your household’s culinary creations using the #UoYwellbeing hashtag! Find out how to eat happy.

5. New Sustainability Clinic launches for students

Join the launch of the new Sustainability Clinic in Summer Term 2022 and get practical experience related to environmental sustainability. Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY) is launching a Sustainability Clinic which is open to all York students, to give you the opportunity to work in multidisciplinary teams on real-world sustainability problems, with community based clients. No previous experience or specific knowledge is needed - just enthusiasm! Find out more about the Sustainability Clinic.

Student news

Things to know this week is produced and distributed by the University's Internal Communications Team. Please email any feedback to university-internal-comms@york.ac.uk.