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.

#KNOWLEDGESHIFT

Blog by Dr Yetunde Kolajo

Welcome to Week 1 of BHM 2023!

I firmly believe in the value of continuous learning. As Albert Einstein once said, when you cease to learn, you cease to grow – I say “When you stop learning, you cease to exist.” This timeless message remains relevant today, as a lack of ongoing education can inhibit personal growth and progress. It is important that our society does not become devoid of understanding. Without ongoing learning, one’s potential for improvement and development is limited, particularly within the realm of higher education. I find Robert Kiyosaki’s emphasis on the importance of fully experiencing life rather than simply existing to be especially poignant. In order to truly live life to its fullest potential, it is essential to keep learning and growing. For higher education students and institutions alike, it is crucial to continually engage in the acquisition of knowledge, understanding, and skills. Embracing a continuous growth mindset is imperative for change and success.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH FACTS:

  • Black History Month was first proposed in 1915, 50 years after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished US slavery
  • In America, the month is celebrated in February.
  • Black History Month was created to improve the public’s study of African-American history
  • In 1976, the celebration was extended from a week to a month. v The UK started celebrating Black History Month in October 1987. (source: champions)

Hair holds significant cultural value in African communities, particularly for black girls and women. It is a defining aspect of their identity and a powerful symbol of beauty and pride. BHM 2023 is an opportune moment for our community to delve deeper into the unique and exquisite qualities of Beautiful Black Curly Kinky Hair.

According to Selkridge-Carty ‘s 2021 blog post, the elimination of European beauty standards for black women and girls would effectively end the fashion oppression of black hair.

As we celebrate 2023 Black History Month, we have a unique opportunity to expand our collective knowledge and understanding of this important event. Recently, I watched a thought-provoking TED Talk by Mena Fombo from the ‘No. You cannot touch my hair!’ campaign.

This campaign is a great example and can provide valuable insights into this year’s Black History Month theme, which is focused on recognising and honoring the significant contributions of Black women and girls to various movements throughout history – The theme of ‘Saluting our Sisters’.

Let’s support and embrace the #WEMATTER movement for BHM 2023 by focusing on increasing awareness and knowledge.

Check out this 14-minute video celebrating Black Women and Girls

#KNOWLEDGESHIFT

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.

Group of students laughing in class

6 weeks to wellbeing: group to support new students in their university journey

Are you struggling with the transition into University and needing some help with healthy habits and routines? Feeling overwhelmed with the new changes and dealing with independence? Sign up to our 6-week wellbeing programme delivered by expert mental health advisers in Student Support and Wellbeing.

What is it?

This six week course is designed to support students with a healthy transition into university life, where they can meet friends, discuss issues in confidence, and learn strategies and share ideas to stay well and connected during their university journey.

Each of the weeks has a specific theme, and the small group (maximum of 12 student participants) will meet for an hour and be facilitated by two friendly and experienced mental health advisers, Alex, and Tara. There will be an opportunity for discussion and all are invited to participate as far as they feel comfortable doing so. You don’t need to bring anything with you, but are asked to commit to all 6 sessions if possible.

Sessions are on the Canterbury campus (location tbc) on Wednesdays from 2pm to 3.30pm.

Want to sign up?

Places are limited, so it it sounds like you could benefit from this, or have questions about the course, email Alex at a.j.weir@kent.ac.uk with a subject line of ‘6 weeks to wellbeing’.

Weekly themes:

  • Overview & Introduction – Week 1 (Wednesday 18th October)

Explanation of the course including an ice breaker. Beginning discussions on self-care & what this looks like for you. Includes a breathing mindfulness exercise.

  • Exploring Self-care – Week 2 (Wednesday 25th October)

How can you develop healthy routines and structure whilst at University.Includes a drawing mindfulness exercise.

  • Boundaries & Communication – Week 3 ( Wednesday 1st November)

What do we mean by healthy boundaries & how do we create healthy boundaries.Includes a drawing mindfulness exercise.

  • How to develop social support systems – Week 4 (Wednesday 8th November)

Includes an ‘eating’ mindfulness exercise.

  • Brief introduction to managing emotion – Week 5 (Wednesday 15th November)

Includes a listening mindfulness exercise.

  • Future goal setting – Week 6 (22nd November)

A focus on your positive traits and attributes.Includes an observation mindfulness exercise.

Booking details

Please email email Alex at a.j.weir@kent.ac.uk with a subject line of ‘6 weeks to wellbeing’ to confirm you can attend all sessions and say you’d like to be allocated a place.

What else is on for wellbeing?

If you’re looking for more wellbeing events and opportunities, check out the Student Support and Wellbeing calendar, and follow @UniKentSSW on Instagram for the latest on what’s on, resources and reminders to stay well and connected. Got a question? Email WellbeingEvents@kent.ac.uk.

Anna Woods

Business Start-up Journey launch: hear from five business founders, 11 Oct

The Business Start-Up Journey Launch 2023: Wednesday 11 October 2023, 14:00-15:30. Sibson LT3, Canterbury, with FREE BUFFET.

Be inspired at the launch of this year’s Business Start-Up Journey where five amazing business founders share their start-up stories.

  • Social entrepreneur Anna Woods went from a highflying career as a buyer for top high street fashion brands, to becoming the founder of her own sustainable fashion business, Positive Retail, tacking the retail industry’s waste issue.
  • Sport and Exercise Science graduate Sophie Broom, the founder of The Awesome Anatomy Co, turned her artistic skills into a thriving business.
  • Computing graduate, Tomiwa Sosanya, the founder of Do You Customs, has won collaborations with big brands with his customised trainers and accessories.
  • Mathematics and Statistics student, Seth Mashate, discovered a gap in the market and plans to revolutionise data usage in the dental industry.
  • Law student, Munya Mwaijumba is launching Glimmer, an app which empowers freelance hairdressers.

Anna of Positive Retail shares:

‘I started this entrepreneurial journey because I knew in my heart the industry needed a solution to overstocks and customers needed to be a presented with a way to shop ‘pre loved & resale’ on the high street that felt compelling.  Resale already had lots of online options ‘vinted/ eBay/ vestiere’ etc but there was no bricks and mortar equivalent that honoured the product properly.  I spotted a gap in the market to create stores where quality and value were honoured, along with the customer experience.  Everything is expertly and thoughtfully curated, we have done the hard work for you- you’re not rummaging in samples sales, or bidding online.  We’re here for you to have a chat and to try on in a premium environment.’

What started as a 6 week popup 2 years ago is now 3 stores with a massively bright future.  We want to be the ultimate destination that brands think of for their surplus stocks and shoppers come for resale.

Being an entrepreneur has felt like a pleasure.  Yes, it’s incredibly tough but after years of bucking against the system and being frustrated with the status quo, I get to bring my own brand to life. It’s thrilling, fun, exhausting and magical.  It’s a gift every day to be able to use all my skills & wisdom to give something to the world I am very very proud of.  I know this is only the beginning.’

Hear from Anna and the other business founders at the launch event, plus find out more about how ASPIRE can support you to start your own business and develop entrepreneurial skills to enhance your career and employability. There will also be a free buffet lunch provided.

See full programme of Business Start-Up Journey events.

All students are welcome to attend.

Email aspire@kent.ac.uk to book your spot.