Belong - Social Journey

A sense of belonging facilitates learning. So be proactive about making connections here and be patient while relationships grow. Get to know campus life, make new friends, become involved with your learning community and create a support network.

Take part in campus life

Go along to orientation activities and show interest in meeting people from the first day. Enjoy the social life here. Get information about Campus Life. You might like to join a campus club or sporting group.

Engage with your School

Get to know your lecturers, tutors and fellow students inside and outside the classroom. If you engage with your learning community, you'll achieve more.

It helps to know your lecturers' names. You might like to note their names at point 5 in your travel diary

If you're confused about aspects of your course (e.g. what to do for an assignment) then speak to your tutor. It's ok to ask your tutors and lecturers questions, send them an email or make an appointment. If you still need help with academic matters after talking to your tutor then you can contact your course coordinator. We really want you to succeed!

Get to know your classmates

Get to know your classmates as soon as possible. Introduce yourself whenever you sit next to them in lectures and tutorials. Aim to meet one new classmate each week.

Be curious about difference. What can you learn from classmates from other cultures, with various life experience and talents?

Ask questions in class. Participate in discussions. Listen to others and don't be afraid to share your ideas and opinions. Begin now! You can learn from one another. Form study pairs or groups and share resources.

If you have time, stop to chat before and after class. Arrange to meet up with other students during breaks. Say hello to people as you get around campus. You have a rare opportunity to make some lifelong friends.

Create a support network

When studying at uni, all kinds of support can be valuable. Think about your formal and informal networks at uni and at home. Who are the people and how do they support you?

Adapted from Anagnostopoulou, K. and Parmar D. ( 2008) Practical guide: bringing together e-learning and student retention p. 28 - 29. Middlesex University and Higher Education Academy.

Map your support network at point 6 in your travel diary.

Part of a wider community

UoN is part of our wider community and values many partnerships. You might like to consider the benefits of volunteer work. Click here for opportunities.