Things to know this week - 25 September 2023: Getting started

Posted on 25 September 2023

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

UoY community update

Reminder: Industrial action cancelled this week
A reminder that, unlike at other UK universities, there is no industrial action at York this week and you should go to teaching sessions as normal.

Direct debit set-up deadline: 3 October
Don't want to miss payment deadlines? The easiest way to pay tuition fees and university accommodation fees is by direct debit. You need to submit your completed direct debit mandate form online or to the Fees Office by Tuesday 3 October. Find out more about paying the University by direct debit.

Need exam arrangements due to a disability?
The next assessment period is in January 2024. If you need individual exam arrangements due to a disability, you need to email evidence to disabilityservices@york.ac.uk by Friday 27 October. Questions? Disability Services are holding drop-ins throughout the semester.

Changes to buses
Don’t forget that this weekend there have been significant changes to buses in York affecting routes, timetables, the free zone and bus numbers.

1. Studying at York: Getting started

It’s Teaching Week 1 - it’s time to get started! 

• A bit lost on campus? Download the MyUoY app for a comprehensive room finder and campus map - as well as viewing your timetable!
• The Library plays a big part of life at York - see your library quickstart guide for the essentials on where to begin.
• New (or returning) to university study? The Academic Skills Community is running An introduction to lectures, seminars, and tutorials workshop and a Returning to education workshop to introduce - or refresh your knowledge of - key aspects of studying for a degree. See all forthcoming Academic Skills Community workshops.

2. Helping you with the ups and downs of university life

Whether this is your first time away from home or you are coming back to study, each year of university is different and it’s normal to feel a little daunted. Remember, there are lots of people at the university who are here to help. Download the TalkCampus app to talk with other students about the ups and downs of student life. It’s available 24/7 and it’s anonymous, so feel free to vent! There are Talk Campus buddies to support you, and a helpline if you want to talk to someone.

Want to know more?  See our tips on dealing with university life or take a look at this TalkCampus blog post on Riding the rollercoaster of your first year at university or college. Student Space also has some great advice on managing expectations of university life.

3. Scammers target students

The University will never offer discounts on tuition or accommodation fees through third parties. Please learn our seven tell-tale signs of a scam and go to a Barclays Digital Eagles online session this week on digital safety, fraud and scams for students to explore how cyber criminals operate and find out how to protect yourself against their tactics.

4. Learn how to be an anti-racist ally

We're aiming for as many students and staff as possible to complete the Union Black: Britain’s Black cultures and steps to anti-racism training by Sunday 1 October for the start of Black History Month 2023. Learn about Black British history and culture as well as how to be an anti-racist and ally through interesting videos, articles, exercises and interactive online discussions.

5. NEW: Reducing campus food waste and costs

Our new shop, save and sustain scheme aims to reduce food waste on campus, whilst providing you with cheaper food options. Subject to availability, you can get some hot meals and cold items for half price in selected food outlets if you buy them 15 minutes before the lunch service ends or the outlet closes. Find out more about our cost of living support for students.

Offers, competitions and paid opportunities

• Apply to be a paid Student Ambassador
• Sign up to be a student feedback volunteer for opportunities that can include vouchers or payment for your time

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.