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Things to know this week - 13 November 2023: How to be successful at York

Posted on 13 November 2023

Welcome to your undergraduate student news summary of key things happening this week.

UoY community update

Report + Support: how it works
If you experience harassment, violence or sexual violence, you can report it to the University using our Report + Support tool. If you report an incident, an appropriate member of staff will make contact within five working days to discuss what you would like to happen next and discuss the support available for you. You can also report anonymously if you wish - we can still use this information to better understand the issues impacting our community, to monitor trends and inform proactive and preventative work.

Accessing IT Support
We are making some changes to the way you access IT support at the University. Our telephone service is now available from 9am-12pm and 2-4pm, Monday to Friday. Read our guide on the best place to access IT support based on your query.

Closure of footpath between Careers and Placements and Vanbrugh College
The footpath from the Careers and Placements building through to the covered walkway connecting Vanbrugh College to Market Square will be closed from today for around two weeks. This is due to the demolition of the former Student Admin block directly beside the footpath. See more campus disruption notices.

1. How to be successful at York

Studying for a degree is ultimately rewarding but we know there can be bumps along the way. As we approach halfway through the first semester, you may be experiencing challenges that many students face:

  • Have you experienced a setback?
  • Are you wondering whether you’re on the right path?
  • Are you struggling to motivate yourself?
  • Do you want to be more confident in seminars or social situations?
  • Is everything a bit stressful?

The good news is that we have developed a tool to help you recognise your situation and develop a positive plan in dealing with it. Try our Success at York Toolkit to help you work out your priorities - whether that’s academically, personally or socially. By taking quizzes, exploring a range of interesting videos, podcasts and activities, you’ll soon understand more about what you want to achieve and feel more confident in facing some of the challenges of student life.

2. Come to the Housing Fair

Find out more about your options for renting in the private sector next academic year at YUSU’s Housing Fair on Friday (17 November). It’s an opportunity to meet housing providers from across the city as well as representatives from City of York Council. The Baroness Hale Legal Clinic will also be there to offer advice about your accommodation contract. See our information about private sector accommodation, including what to do if you’re looking for a rent guarantor.

3. Getting organised with Google

Feeling overwhelmed with your inbox? Wondering how to keep on top of your calendar? Need a place for your tasks and quick notes? See our Google Workspace: a Practical Guide and join us on Wednesday (15 November) for Student Bitesize: Getting Organised with Google, an online session where we will show you the potential of Google's helpful tools. Whether you're just getting started or struggling to stay organised, our Skills Guides have got you covered.

4. Wanted: your thoughts on assessment and feedback

The Inclusive Education Team is running three faculty-based discussion workshops to help inform the University’s plans for good practice surrounding assessment and feedback. The sessions will last approximately 1.5 hours and students who are selected to attend will receive a £15 Amazon voucher for their time. Sign up for the assessment and feedback student sessions.

5. Make an impact in your college

Do you have the skills and enthusiasm to make an impact in your college? College Committee Election nominations are now open and we’re looking for the people who make college life the best it can be. From Freshers’ Week, winter formals, and wellbeing events, the committees are at the heart of it all. So who’s up for getting involved, doing something fun and having something great to put on your CV? Nominate yourself in the College Committee Elections before Friday (17 November). 

Offers, competitions and paid opportunities

Log on to Handshake, our careers platform, for jobs and opportunities.

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.