PG Summer continues in August with a wide range of activities to get involved in, including:
Tues 1 August – Enjoy good coffee? Head to the Gulbenkian Arts Centre Café for their free coffee tastingand help influence the future coffee culture on campus.
Wed 2 August – Get creative with this relaxing Craft-ernoon Tea event at Venue. There will be painting and pottery available.
Fri 18 August – Get outside and volunteer at the Kent Community Oasis Garden. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re an expert, a complete beginner or just coming along for a chat.
Wed 30 August – Learn how to find graduate level employment after uni at this online session from our Careers Team, which will focus on graduate jobs, grad schemes as well as job hunting methods and application tips.
Following our initial round of clothing collections for Refugee Week at the Kent, we were able to donate eight large bags of much-needed men’s clothing to the Gatwick Detainees Welfare Group (GDWG). These clothes have gone on to make a difference in the lives of detainees who have experienced hardships on their journey to safety.
Anna Pincus from GDWG highlighted the significance of providing good-quality second-hand clothes, stating:
“People are frequently detained in only the clothes they are wearing and do not have a second set of clothes. Sometimes people arrive in detention in clothes that are not dry after having crossed the channel. People may face deportation in clothes that are inappropriate for where they are being sent to. Providing good quality second-hand clothes meets practical needs and also counters dehumanisation and gives people basic dignity.”
The impact of your support can be seen through the words of those who have directly benefited from your donations. Mohammed said:
“I needed clothes and had only flip flops when I left detention. Thanks to GDWG for clothes I could not buy for myself. We are not allowed to work after detention but we need shoes and clothes.”
Ali said:
“When you have nothing, any clothes are a big gift. Thank you for helping us.”
There are still many more in need, and if you have not yet donated there is still time to make a difference.
Keep the Donations Coming
If you have any of the following clean items to spare, please consider contributing clothing:
In addition to clothing donations, we want to remind you of another impactful way you can make a difference, by learning more about the stories of refugees and asylum seekers on our Refugee Tales trail walk. On the trail you can read or listen to the real-life stories of individuals who have experienced the UK’s immigration system, offering a powerful opportunity to engage with their narratives.
The trail was launched for Refugee Week back in June, but remains in place on campus.
For more information on the trail and how you can get involved, please visit the Refugee Week webpage.
Sanctuary fund
We at the University of Kent believe that everyone should have the opportunity to study at a university irrespective of their background. We are proud that our campus is a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone.
In committing to become a University of Sanctuary in 2019, we set up Sanctuary scholarships to give three refugees and asylum seekers every year the opportunity to receive a University of Kent education. The scholarships cover a full fee waiver for an undergraduate programme as well as small maintenance grants.
Apply for the GOLD Programme. Applications are now open!
Are you looking to add value to your degree, develop your leadership skills and gain practical experience that stands out to future global employers? Look no further than the Global Officers’ Leadership Development (GOLD) Programme!
Join other like-minded students to make a positive impact on campus and enhance your global skills. As a Global Officer, you’ll work closely with the Dean & Director of Global and Lifelong Learning and other university staff to organise, develop and support globally-minded activities throughout the year.
But don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what previous Global Officers have to say about their experience:
“The GOLD Programme was one of the best things that happened to me at university. I can only encourage participation in this splendid and unique opportunity! Personally, I would have never forgiven myself for missing out on it had I known about it and not applied!”
What does the course involve?
The course is made up of five compulsory components.
Component 1: Getting started
Identify your skillset and set your goals for the year
Attend a welcome session to learn about cultural intelligence (CQ) and build your intercultural awareness
Participate in a spring-term curriculum Internationalisation workshop
Component 2: Training workshops
Choose and attend a minimum of two out of five workshops covering intercultural awareness, sustainability, internationalisation, leadership in a global context, and event management.
Component 3: Internationalized student engagement
Engage in various projects and activities on campus, such as marketing and promotion projects, student media campaigns, campus tours and focus groups.
Component 4: Project and event planning
Collaborate with a team of Global Officers to plan and deliver regular events and activities based on your personal goals and interests, such as Global Hangouts and Sustainability Forums.
Component 5: Reflection and Employability Skills Assessment
Reflect on your progress and set future goals during an interactive group session.
“Not only will you gain crucial employability skills, but also make new friends and grow as a better person and a citizen of the world.”
Benefits of the GOLD Programme
By participating in the GOLD Programme, you’ll earn Employability Points, receive a certificate of recognition, obtain a personal reference from the Dean & Director of Global and Lifelong Learning, gain practical event management and leadership experience, and expand your network with like-minded individuals.
PLUS, you can record your international skills development in the Kent Global Passport!
“The GOLD Programme was a highlight of my time at Kent. The team leading the programme listened to all of our ideas and supported us throughout the year. I developed many transferable skills, gave back to the student community, and made many new friends.”
How do I apply?
If you are a committed, enthusiastic, reliable, organised and professional undergraduate interested in developing your global skills, head to the GOLD websiteand fill out the online application form.
Why not apply today? Applications are open from now until 9:00 on 11 October 2023.
Not only will you gain crucial employability skills, but also make new friends and grow as a better person and a citizen of the world.
Don’t miss out on this unique chance to become a global leader! Apply nowand start your GOLD journey today!
UK Power Networks will be undertaking essential maintenance works on Saturday 29 July 2023 from 10:00-15:00.
The areas affected by the power outage will be Beverley Farm, Keynes College, Tanglewood, Careers, Oaks Study Hub, Turing College (all blocks) and Hut 8.
All other buildings should be unaffected by the power outage.
Are you in need of a massage to help you relax and enjoy the summer?
Why not take us up on a 30-minute qualified massage for just £23 between 1-31 August 2023. We’re also extending the offer to members of the public too, so everyone can benefit from this reduced rate.
To book a massage during this time, you will need a minimum of Kent Sport Pay to Play membership (free, when you create an online booking account). Appointments can be booked online in advance, but must be attended between 1-31 August 2023. Alternatively, call us on 01227 823623 or email sportsclinic@kent.ac.uk.
How do I book?
You can choose between qualified and student-led appointments for many of our services. To find out more about our individual services, visit the Kent Sports Clinic webpage.
Qualified massages are bookable as 30-minute appointments as standard. Please contact sportsclinic@kent.ac.uk if you would like to book a 60-minute appointment.
If you’re an existing customer, you can book and pay for services through your online booking account. New customers will first need to create a free account with Kent Sport. This is quick, easy and free to do. See our guidance for more information.
If you are resitting exams or taking an exam for the first time this summer, your exams timetable is ready to view in KentVision. If you have any questions about your exams timetable, please get in touch with your Division.
If you’re not resitting any exams but resubmitting coursework, you can find events and support from the Student Learning Advisory Service on our website. Best of luck!
The University of Kent is delighted to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month this year, between the dates of the 18th of July and the 17th of August.
British South Asians form a large percentage of the UK population, and naturally encompass a significant number of the staff and students represented within the vast community here at the University of Kent. The contributions of these Brits to entertainment, politics, science, sports, and many other areas central to British culture cannot be understated, rather, it is important that we take the time to recognise and celebrate such achievements.
Indeed, one of the core messages behind South Asian Heritage Month is seeking to understand, commemorate,, and celebrate the diverse cultures, communities and history that tie the UK and South Asia together.
According to the South Asian Heritage Trust (https://southasianheritage.org.uk/), South Asian Heritage Month encompasses several independence days connected to South Asian countries. The beginning and end dates of SAHM particularly call back to two significant events in 1947; the 18th of July marks the date that the Indian Independence Act gained royal assent from King George VI, whilst the 17th of August marks the date of publication of the Radcliffe Line, which established where the borders between India, West Pakistan, and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) would be.
In 2023, the theme of South Asian Heritage Month is ‘Stories to Tell’. We have therefore chosen to focus our efforts on gathering articles which shed a light on the perspective of South Asian Brits in the 21st Century, as well as the past that has shaped us all. This will include written interviews with the authors of last year’s South Asian Heritage Week’s stories, that along with a plethora of resources, will be released over the coming weeks. We also invite you to check out the developments on our new South Asian Heritage page, available here: https://www.kent.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusivity/student-edi/history-months/south-asian-heritage.
We hope you all enjoy the rest of your summer – and, of course, South Asian Heritage Month!
Calling all coffee enthusiasts, students, and staff! The University of Kent catering team are thrilled to invite you to a very special coffee tasting event at the Gulbenkian Arts Centre Café on Tuesday 1 August, 10.00 – 12.00.
During this free event, you will have the pleasure of sampling four distinct filter coffees from four different suppliers. Each coffee will tell a unique story of its journey from bean to cup.
This coffee tasting event is not only about enjoying great coffee; it’s also an integral part of our coffee tender process. Your valued feedback during this tasting session will play a vital role in determining which coffee we serve on campus. As a university that values the preferences of its community, your voice matters in this decision-making process.
To complement the coffee tasting experience, an assortment of pastries will be available for you to enjoy as you sip and savour each coffee.
As an attendee, we kindly request you complete a short feedback survey after sampling the various coffees. By sharing your thoughts, you not only assist us in selecting the best coffee for campus but also stand a chance to win a fabulous prize –£50 credit on your KentOne card (staff/student ID)!
You have the freedom to drop in at any time during the event hours, allowing you to tailor your tasting experience to your schedule.
To book your place, please register online. Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot early.
Remember, it’s not just a coffee tasting; it’s a chance to influence the future coffee culture on campus!
It’s been great to see our postgraduate community come together at events during the first month of PG Summer, including the Annual Postgraduate Conference, PG Summer Coffee Morning and PG Careers Week events. July brings lots more PG Summer events and activities, including:
Thu 6 July -Reflective writing is a powerful learning tool which can help you to understand your own thinking processes, challenge your assumptions and explore logical approaches to arguments. Try it for yourself with this 2 hour Reflecting Writing Workshop at the Drill Hall Library.
Wed 12 July – PG Summer Chill Zone: kick back with free refreshments, Nintendo Switch, board games, table football and more in Keynes.
Fri 14 July – Get outside for the PG Summer Lawn Games Afternoonfor lots of fun with interdivisional games and refreshments.
Tues 18 July – Join the PG Picnic hosted by Kent Union on the Registry Lawn – we’re ready for all weathers with picnic blankets, and covered spaces under the stretch tents.
Wed 19 July – What constitutes good mental health? Explore improving wellbeing at thispositive mental health workshop run by a counsellor from Student Support and Wellbeing, starting at the Labyrinth at Canterbury campus.
Wed 19 July – Find out the essentials for CVs and cover letters, including trends, hints and tips. This practical CV session is taking place in Medway building.
Mon 24 July – Kent Union are organising a day out to the beautiful seaside town of Margate. You can spend time at the Dreamland amusement park, explore the Old Town and visit the many independent shops and cafes. Spaces are limited so make sure you book your place as soon as possible.
Wed 26 July – Writing well academically can make a significant difference to the grades you can achieve. Join this two hour Writing Well Workshop at the Drill Hall Library to help develop your academic writing skills.
Thu 27 July – Take part in fun, interactive activities and enjoy refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere at the Summer Global Hangout in Nexus.
The 5-week Mindfulness course, organised by the School of Economics, but open to all students in the University showed that there is an increasing appetite for these kinds of tools to support learning.
The course, facilitated by Mindfulness practitioner Lorrainne Millard, had over 50 registrations.
‘The dimensions of the course that seem to have helped students most were dealing with feelings of anxiety, the ability to focus and feelings of happiness and joy.’ convener Dr Adelina Gschwandtner told us. ‘Most participants were women, 50% from a BAME background. 45% percent were studying at a postgraduate level and most of them came from the School of Psychology (48.5%) followed by the School of Economics (24.2%) and the School of Politics (9%). The overwhelming majority preferred that the course was run online offering more flexibility.’
Tiffany Akurut an MSc Economics student had not taken part in anything regarding mindfulness or mental health before but was persuaded by the virtual nature of the course.
‘No one could see you during the exercises, so you could just let go and just be yourself.’ Tiffany told us ‘Going into a room with other people, I don’t like being in such situations, just cause I’m shy. But if you wanted to speak up, you could and if you didn’t want to, you could just be quiet in the background and just listen.’
The course came at an ideal time for her.
‘Around the time when we were approaching exam season, we had multiple deadlines and I experienced a lot of anxiety that meant I was unable to focus. Then I would feel I didn’t deserve to sleep because of how little I have accomplished during the day. So then I am more tired, which makes me more stressed. So I end up in this cycle that I’m really unable to get out of.’
The course was the first time Tiffany Akurut had tried any Mindfulness techniques.
Portia Chere expressed that travelling to the UK from Botswana to study a financial economics MSc was overwhelming at times.
‘Yeah, it has been a culture shock, but it was also an exciting opportunity for me to travel from Africa because it is my first time travelling Internationally.’ Portia left her son and husband at home for the year while she studies. ‘I think maybe because being an international student, having to come here alone without my family, was a bit of a challenge to settle in so I really needed something that could keep me motivated throughout the my journey in learning.‘
Portia Chere travelled from Botswana to study a financial MSc at Kent.
Gladness Sebifelo has been studying an MSc in development economics after studying for her undergraduate at the University of Botswana ten years ago.
‘When I arrived in the UK.I had to start teaching myself to learn again, andbecause I arrived two weeks late, I couldn’t catch up easily, you know? So that alone gave me a lot of stress. Like, will I make it? Justbeing in a different environment was stressful. So I was always asking myself what can I do? Where can I get help?’
Before this Gladness’ only experience of mindfulness came from social media ‘-just the memes that you always read that encourage people.’
‘I think I had a stubborn mind. I was like, ohhh will it work?’
‘But I was like, 5 weeks. One hour a week. It wont hurt.‘
The structure of the course was varied.
‘It was a mixture of everything. So you do a practical exercise with everyone, like breathing techniques or like a physical exercise and then, Lorraine, would you usually go into the theory behind it,’ Tiffany explained ‘Then you would go into breakout rooms and discuss the weeks homework, what you did, if you’re able to do anything, what you’re accomplished, how it made you feel.’
Participating alongside others who are also struggling with stress and anxiety turned out to be helpful in and of itself Tiffany found.
‘I think sometimes you think that you’re the only person feeling this thing, going through this, but when you talk to other people, you understand you are experiencing the same thing. It’s great feeling that you’re not alone in this.’
‘However we respond to situations, we hold that power ourselves.’ Gladness Sebifelo
Gladness Sebifelo came away from the course with a sense of empowerment.
‘I know now it’s me who is in control. Nobody else. So if I don’t control the situationI’m in, nobody else will come out and and and do it for me. Soit’s all about me and how to tackle my situations.’
Portia suggested that the course would be suitable for anyone ‘I don’t think it’sthere’s somebody who is tailor made for it, because I think it it cuts across so many things, whether it’s to improve on your relationship with your family, your communication, your wellbeing. So I think everybody can use this course.’
Due to the tremendous positive feedback and the large number of registrations this year we are planning to organise the course again in 2023-2024.
