Category Archives: Student Guide

Three students chatting with coffees sat outside Templeman Library

Events roundup: 9-15 October

Our two-week Employability Festival, EmpFest, begins this week! Look out for a ton of events including workshops and guest speakers with industry experts.

Don’t forget to enrol or re-register by Monday 16 October! It’s important that you enrol (new students) or re-register (returning students) by 10:00 on 16 October. This is to let us know you will definitely be studying with us this academic year.

Monday 9 October: EmpFest events

There’s plenty of employability related events on Monday including an online session on how to ace psychometric tests, how the Employability Points Scheme works and an in-person introduction to the Global Skills Award for PGT students.

Tuesday 10 October: World Mental Health Day and STAR Network bake sale

Tuesday is World Mental Health Day, a day that aims to help open up conversations around mental health and highlight ways we can improve our wellbeing. At Canterbury, you can pick up a free house plant outside the library (first come first served), meet two adorable therapy dogs, pick up some fiction at the book swap and listen to a free lunchtime calming piano concert.

At Medway, head to the Oasis Lounge in Rochester Building between 10:00-13:00 for the Medway Services for Students Showcase. At the showcase you will find free refreshments and representatives from Student Support and Wellbeing, as well as many other support teams and services. There’s also a Global Hangout event in Rochester Building where you can meet new friends and take part in creative activities. A therapy dog will also be in the Hub from 12:00-14:00 for cuddles! See all World Mental Health Day activities.

The Student Action for Refugees (STAR) Network are holding a bake sale on Tuesday at 13:00 on the Plaza outside Coop. Find out about the work they are doing and how you can get involved.

Wednesday 11 October: Services for Students Showcase, Inspirational Speaker (Medway) and Business Start-up Journey launch

Join us in Darwin Conference suite on Wednesday at any point between 11:00-15:00 for the Canterbury Services for Students Showcase to find out how you can make the most of all the fantastic services available to you, including Student Support and Wellbeing, Kent Sport, the Gulbenkian and many more. There will also be free refreshments provided.

At Medway, as part of Black History Month, you can listen to this inspirational speaker event hosted by the African Caribbean Society (ACS) with writer and poet Nubia Writer and rapper and storyteller Alim Kamara. They will be discussing themes in black identity, womanhood and diaspora.

Are you considering starting your own business? Join ASPIRE for the launch of this year’s Business Start-Up Journey to find out about the programme and hear from five amazing business founders and their start-up stories. Buffet lunch provided.

Thursday 12 October: Free headshots and find out about Year In Programmes

Do you need a professional headshot for LinkedIn? Photographer Matt Cook is offering free headshots in Keynes on Thursday 10:00-16:00 (drop-in session).

Are you interested in adding a year in a subject to your degree? The Year In programme includes a Year In Computing, Data Analytics, a Language, TV and Broadcasting, and Management. Find out more about the Year In programme at this online session.

Friday 13 October: Study or work abroad and volunteering at Kent Community Oasis Garden

Learn about exciting opportunities to study/work abroad during your degree, whether for an academic year or over the summer. Going abroad is a great way to develop new skills and enhance your CV.

Get outside and volunteer at the Kent Community Oasis Garden (near Park Wood). You don’t need to be an expert and you can come along for as little or as a long as you like.

See more student events.

Opportunities

See more student opportunities.

graphics showing laptop, desktop and mobile; notebook, clock, brain in lightbulb icon

Enhance Your Academic Skills with Upcoming Workshops

Are you looking to improve your academic skills and make your studying life easier and more productive? Maybe you’re curious about using Assistive Technology apps to study smarter but not sure which to try or how to go about it…

Student Support and Wellbeing, in partnership with SLAS (Student Learning Advisory Service) are offering a series of informative and engaging workshops to help you achieve just that. From time management and wellbeing to creative note-taking and mind mapping for assignments, these workshops are designed to empower you with the tools and techniques you need to succeed. Mark your calendars for these upcoming events to upskill you this term, all taking place between 2-3pm on the Canterbury campus:

1. Time Management and Wellbeing on 18 Oct

2-3pm in Keynes Seminar Room 6

Are you struggling to balance your academic commitments and personal life? Join us on October 18th for a workshop on Time Management and Wellbeing. In this session, you’ll learn effective strategies to manage your time efficiently while maintaining your overall well-being. Don’t miss this opportunity to boost your productivity and reduce stress.

2. Creative Note-taking on 8 Nov

2-3pm in Keynes Seminar Room 6

Taking notes is a crucial part of the learning process, but traditional note-taking methods may not work for everyone. On November 1st, attend our Creative Note-taking workshop to discover innovative techniques and assistive software skills that will make your note-taking more engaging and effective. This workshop will help you capture information in a way that suits your learning style.

3. Mind Maps for assignments on 29 Nov

Are you tired of writing lengthy outlines for your assignments? Join us on November 29th for the Mind Maps for Assignments workshop. Learn how to create visually appealing and organized mind maps that can serve as a powerful tool for brainstorming, organizing ideas, and improving your assignment planning process. This workshop will help you take your assignments to the next level.

To register for these workshops and secure your free place, click on the provided link above, and you’ll be emailed a confirmation of your place and the workshop location. If you have any access needs, or questions about the workshops, get in touch with us at DigitalAccess@kent.ac.uk.

Look out for more on accessible information and assistive technology on Instagram @UniKentSSW, #InclusiveKent.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your academic skills and succeed in your studies. We look forward to seeing you there!

blue background and 4 head and shoulder shots of two male students and two female students, with the caption: JOIN STAR Student Action for Refugees

Meet the Student Action for Refugees (STAR) society at Kent – get involved this year to make a difference

The Student Action for Refugees (STAR) society at Kent is a remarkable student-led organisation that advocates for refugee rights and fostering a welcoming environment for refugees and asylum seekers on campus. With a rich history that traces back to its inception at the University of Nottingham almost thirty years ago, STAR has evolved into a national network of student groups across the UK comprising of around 34,000 students. The committee members of UKC STAR are passionate individuals who actively campaign, fundraise, and volunteer to challenge hostile government policies and support those in need. Come along to find out more and grab a sweet treat at the Canterbury campus us their our bake sale on Tuesday 10th October at 1pm on the Plaza outside the coop. Let’s meet the inspiring voices behind this dedicated team…

Ewen Rivallain – President:

“I am the newly elected President of UKC Student Action for Refugees, dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment for refugees and asylum seekers on campus.”

Ewen, the newly elected President of UKC Student Action for Refugees, is committed to creating a welcoming environment for refugees and asylum seekers on campus. With a focus on member engagement and community projects, Ewen and UKC STAR are determined to make a difference in the lives of those in need.

Cassandra Ross – Vice President:

“I wish to aid refugees in any way possible and to encourage people to join us in doing so.”

Cassandra, a third-year student in Politics and International Relations, is the Vice President of UKC STAR. Her genuine interest in understanding the struggles faced by the refugee community motivated her to join the committee. Cassandra’s primary goal is to raise awareness about refugee issues on campus and help create a more welcoming environment for refugees in the UK.

Marie Legraverend – Secretary:

“We have a lot of ideas to get you involved in creating a welcoming environment for refugees in Canterbury and in the UK in general.”

As the upcoming Kent STAR Secretary, Marie, a 3rd-year Politics and International Relations student, is deeply committed to resolving the human rights issues surrounding refugees. Having previously served as the Treasurer, Marie is passionate about raising awareness, volunteering, campaigning, and fundraising. She invites everyone to join in their efforts to make a difference.

Leah Tesfu – Marketing and Collaboration Coordinator:

“I joined STAR as I wanted to be a part of a society that brings about positive change.”

Leah, a final year Biomedical Science student, serves as the Marketing and Collaboration Coordinator for Kent STAR. Drawn to STAR’s mission of building a more understanding and just society for refugees, Leah is eager to contribute to the society’s initiatives and projects. The clothes donation point project is particularly close to her heart, as it provides support to refugees while reducing waste on campus.

Romain Picon – Events Officer:

“If you want to start making a difference today, you can donate your old clothes at the various clothes donation points on campus.”

Romain, a third-year student in Politics and International Relations from Bordeaux, France, discovered STAR last year as a volunteer. Inspired by attending talks on refugees and participating in protests against proposed government legislation, Romain is determined to continue taking action. He encourages others to join in the efforts to support refugee rights and help those in indefinite immigration detention.

Want to get involved?

During this academic year, our priority is to involve our members as much as possible! We are in the process of setting up volunteer opportunities for students wishing to get involved in supporting refugees and asylum seekers in the local area, and we have several conferences planned to discuss important issues surrounding refugees and asylum seekers. Come and see us at our bake sale on Tuesday 10th October at 1pm on the Plaza outside the coop if you would like to know more, or get your free membership on Kent Union to be informed about all of our upcoming events!

If you’d like to find out more about STAR at Kent or join the society, have a look at their Kent Union page, or if you use Instagram, give STAR Kent a follow to see what’s happening next.

Students with therapy dog

World Mental Health Day on 10th October: Ways to boost your wellbeing

At Kent we celebrate the international World Mental Health Day to help open up conversations about mental health and highlight ways we can improve our wellbeing.

What’s on for you on campus?

Medway

  • Head to the Oasis Lounge (Rochester building) between 10:00-13:00 for the Services for Students Showcase for free refreshments and to meet with representatives from Student Support and Wellbeing as well many other support teams and services.
  • Join the Global Hangout to meet new friends and take part in creative activities in Rochester Building, 10:00-13:00.
  • A therapy dog will also be in the Hub from 12:00 to 14:00 for cuddles! 

Canterbury

Join us in Nexus (Templeman Library) any time between 12:00 and 15:00 to: 

What Student Support can you expect at Kent?

Whether you’ve recently joined the university or have been a student for some time, you can reach out to a team of experts in Student Support and Wellbeing (SSW) for support around mental health issues, specific learning differences, neurodivergence, disability and chronic health conditions. We also have a team of qualified counsellors who provide free confidential sessions both face to face and online. Find out what happens when you first seek support from SSW.

Tips to stay well at uni

Check out this 9 minute video of advice from our Mental Health staff to manage your mental health at uni.

Get support 24/7

Kent students have access to 24/7 online, phone and text services for mental health and wellbeing support:

  • Spectrum Life offers 24/7 emergency expert mental health support via phone, text, or WhatsApp: phone 0800 0318227 and press option 1, Text/WhatApp ‘Hi’ to +44 (0)7418 360780.
  •  Togetherall offers peer-to-peer anonymous online discussion which is moderated by expert clinicians, as well as free courses and self-assessments that you can do whenever you choose.

Stay connected

Follow @UniKentSSW on Instagram for wellbeing advice, updates and information, and check out our events calendar for workshops and support groups throughout the year.

Group of students holding their GOLD programme certificates

Apply now to become a Global Officer (closed)

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 organize, 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, WorldFest events 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.”

Information sessions

You’re welcome to join us at one of our information session to find out more and ask any questions:

Canterbury Campus

  • Wednesday 4 October 16:00-17:30 in Sibson LT2
  • Wednesday 11 October 14:00-15:30 in Sibson LT2

Medway Campus

  • Tuesday 10 October 13:30-14:30, in Medway Building Room 1-22  (following the Medway Services for Student Showcase).

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 website and 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 now and start your GOLD journey today!

GOLD Programme logo

cartoon traffic lights: green = go for it; yellow = check; red = no is no

Consent. Get It. Full Stop – Our sex-positive campaign at Kent

Consent. Get It. Full Stop. is our sex-positive campaign to cultivate and strengthen a culture of consent in our community of staff and students. Everyone should be able to explore their sexuality with confidence, and we know that consent is key and necessary for all sexual activity. Getting consent might at first seem tricky so, we have created a consent webpage where you can learn about what consent is and read some tips on how to ensure you have it, and how you can give it clearly to your partner(s). 

You can also watch this 3 minute YouTube video to learn more about #ConsentGetIt. 

What if I’ve had an experience where consent wasn’t given? 

If you have experienced sexual assault or harassment, expert support is available here at Kent. We have separate links available for students and staff: 

Additionally you can use our online reporting tool, Report + Support, to report an incident to the University. Further guidance on what to expect when reporting, including a 3 minute video, is available on our Report + Support webpage.

Follow #ConsentGetIt on Instagram to stay up-to-date on progress and initiatives!

 

ARtwork by Abolore - women in colourful headwraps

Celebrating Black History Month

Every October, Black History Month is celebrated across the world, to explore the rich culture, origins, histories, and achievements of African and Caribbean communities and their diaspora.

This year the theme is Saluting Our Sisters, and we have a range of events at our Canterbury and Medway campuses including exhibitions, inspirational speakers, film nights and crafts.

What’s on this month

Together with Kent Union, we’ve got lots planned including:

See all Black History Month events.

Colourful artwork by Abolore Sobayo

Ẹwà: Beauty Exhibition in Keynes, Oct – Dec

Nigerian born artist Abolore Sobayo explores the beauty of sisterhood among Yoruba women through their culture of helping each other. Join the launch event on 4 October.

Living Black at Kent booklet front cover

Living Black at Kent booklet for our Black community

With recommendations from our Black students and staff, the booklet highlights local services and businesses to help our Black students find their feet here at Kent. See Living Black at Kent booklet.

Three students sat laughing together on steps in Westgate Gardens

Events roundup: 2-8 October

We hope you’re starting to settle or settle back into university life as we get into the Autumn Term.

Black History Month has begun, so look out for lots of events throughout the month including exhibitions, inspirational speakers, film nights and crafts!

Monday 2 October: Making the most of your lectures and seminars and decorating notebooks

Find out how to get the most of your lectures (Canterbury) including how to prepare and note taking. This session is taking place in person, or online on request. This is followed by a workshop aiming to help you make the most of seminars so you can perform at your best.

Channel your artistic flair and decorate your academic notebooks and folders in the Venue.

Tuesday 3 October: Making the most of your lectures and seminars (Medway) and how to get a Grad Scheme

Confused about Graduate Schemes? Join this online session all about Grad Schemes to find out what they are and tips on how you can get one.

Find out how to get the most of your lectures (Medway) including how to prepare and note taking. This session is taking place in person, or online on request. This is followed by a workshop aiming to help you make the most of seminars so you can perform at your best.

Wednesday 4 October: Black History Month launch event, Kent Police drop-in clinic (Medway), Study Abroad info session and GOLD programme taster

On Wednesday Kent Police are holding a drop-in clinic at the Drill Hall Library. It’s an opportunity to speak to your local police to ask any questions you may have.

Are you a globally minded undergraduate at Kent? This Global Officers Leadership Development (GOLD) Programme taster session will explain the benefits of the programme, activities you might take part in, and details of how to apply.

If you’re a stage 2 student and your course includes a Year Abroad or you are interested in adding one, please come along to an information session with the Study Abroad Team.

Join us for our Black History Month launch event on Wednesday evening – the grand opening of the Ẹwà: Beauty exhibition by Nigerian born, Lagos and Rochester based artist Abolore Sobayo. Ẹwà explores the beauty of sisterhood among the Yoruba women through their culture of helping each other. The launch features a talk from the artist, a drinks and nibbles reception with Nigerian food and head wrap demonstrations. The free exhibition is taking place in Keynes and will be open from October – December.

Thursday 5 October: Relaxation sessions (Medway) and what skills employers are looking for

Enjoy a relaxation session in the Hub, Medway, with either a 15-minute massage or a gel manicure.

Find out what skills employers are looking for and how you can develop them while at uni. This session from our Career and Employability Team will be delivered in Keynes, Canterbury, and online.

Friday 6 October: Canterbury Cathedral trip and Black History Month film showing (Medway)

Kent Union are running a free trip to Canterbury Cathedral. You will walk as a group down to town and explore the cathedral’s intricate architecture. Just remember your KentOne card as Kent students get free entry to the Cathedral!

On Friday evening you can watch a film as part of Black History Month celebrations in the Mezzanine at The Hub, Medway.

See more student events.

Student opportunities

See more student opportunities.

 

Student on laptop

Don’t forget to enrol or re-register by 16 Oct

New students, if you haven’t already, please remember to enrol online by 10:00 on 16 October 2023.

Returning students, you also need to complete Returning Registration by 10:00 on 16 October 2023.

This is to let us know you will definitely be studying with us this academic year. If you can’t register for financial reasons, visit the Financial Aid team in the Arrivals Hub (Canterbury campus).

Find out more on the How to enrol webpage.