Starting university is exciting, nerve-wracking, and life-changing all at once. To help you navigate the leap into higher education, we’ve gathered a collection of short video clips from current University of Kent students who know exactly what you’re going through. They’ve been in your shoes, found their way, and are here to share what made their journey smoother (and way more fun!).
This isn’t just advice, it’s a warm welcome into a community where you truly belong.
- Make the first move
Say hello to the person sitting next to you in lectures or at the bus stop. Everyone’s looking to make friends; sometimes, they just need you to break the ice. - Try something new
From basketball to Kent Gospel Choir, the range of societies and activities here is huge. You might just stumble into a hobby you never knew you’d love. - Step outside your comfort zone
Whether it’s speaking up in a seminar, joining a sports team, or going to a campus event alone, the moments that feel scary now will be the stories you’ll tell later. - Ask for help early
Whether you need academic support, wellbeing advice, or just someone to talk to, our staff and support services are here for you — no problem is too small.
Belonging Starts with You — Every Single Day
A warm welcome never goes out of fashion. It isn’t something that expires after Welcome Week or ends with Freshers’ Fair. Feeling like you belong matters just as much in Week 1 as it does in Week 10, during exams, or on those grey, rainy days when you’re questioning everything.
Each time you show up for lectures, push through deadlines, or take one more step towards your future career, remember: you are welcome at Kent — today, tomorrow, and every day you are here.
This is more than a “welcome to university.” It’s an invitation to feel at home in a community that values you, supports you, and celebrates your presence — even on the hard days.
Watch the Videos, Feel the Community
Our student-made welcome clips are full of personal stories, campus life hacks, and encouragement. They show you that you’re not stepping into this journey alone — there’s a whole community rooting for you.
Click on the links below to view the welcome clips:
Rituparna
Sohail
Kesiena
A huge thank you to the students who stepped out of their comfort zones to create these videos. Your openness, kindness, and willingness to share will make countless others feel seen, supported, and truly part of the Kent family.
We hope that, even before you set foot on campus, you already feel a sense of belonging — and that it continues far beyond Welcome Week.
Welcome home.
Posted by Dr Yetunde Kolajo @ y.kolajo@kent.ac.uk