Arriving Setting Up Settling In Getting Help

Welcome To The 2011–12. Dates of semesters 2011-12

Autumn semester: 26 September – 17 December 2011 16 January – 4 February 2012 4 weeks vacation: 17 December 2011 – 15 January 2012

Spring semester: 6 February – 31 March 2012 and 23 April – 9 June 2012 3 weeks Easter vacation: 31 March – 22 April 2012

Students on graduate programmes generally attend for twelve months, often taking classes in the semesters and completing a dissertation at other times.

Intro Week 2011 19 September – 25 September 2011 University precincts

1 You must read and bring to Sheffield

See Notes

Registration: WHEN MUST YOU ATTEND The Essential REGISTRATION? Guide

WHICH INTRODUCTORY ACADEMIC Registration: MEETING MUST YOU ATTEND? The Essential (Masters and undergraduate students) Guide

WHICH UNIVERSITY MEETING FOR NEW STUDENTS MUST YOU ATTEND? Page 12

You must read and bring to Sheffield

Registration: The Essential Guide • Fees • Registration

This “Welcome to The University of Sheffield” • Arrivals • Intro Week Timetable • Meetings • Where to go for help and Information

Home from Home • Accommodation

2 Contents

Contents

You must read and bring to sheffield 2 9 Academic Services 24 A. Computing facilities 24 1 Before you come 7 A. Enquirers applicant portal (eap) 7 B. Information Commons 25 B. Tash: the academic skills hub 7 C. Unauthorised copying and distribution of C. Looking after yourself 7 copyright material 25 D. preparing for living with other people 7 D. Social networking – your safety, facebook, myspace etc. 26 2 Travelling to Sheffield 7 E. University Library 26 A. Travelling to Sheffield by car 7 F. English Language Teaching Centre 26 B. Travelling from the train/bus stations to G. Modern Languages Teaching Centre 27 the University 8 H. The Academic Skills Hub (tash) 27 C. Travelling to Sheffield from airports 8 I. places to study 27 3 Accommodation on arrival in September 8 10 Other University services 28 A. September arrivals 8 A. Careers Service 28 B. Early arrivals 8 B. Counselling Service 28 C. Rent payments 9 C. Accommodation and Campus Services 28 D. Your new room 9 D. Study Abroad Opportunities 28 E. Want to move? 9 E. Mature Students 28 4 Intro Week 2011, 19 September – 25 September 10 F. Local “Commuter” Students 28 A. The University’s aims for orientation and Intro Week 10 11 Money Matters 29 B. Events before intro Week 10 A. Fees 29 C. Making the most of Intro Week 10 B. Managing your money 29 D. In intro week you must 10 C. Financial support at the University for uk E. Information points (in association with ssid) undergraduates 29 in Intro Week 11 D. Financial support for international students 30 F. Documents confirming student status 11 E. Short-term loans 30 G. Intro Week events 11 F. Entitlement to welfare benefits and tax 5 Challenges and difficulties in early days 15 credits – uk students only 30 A. Introduction to Intro Week 15 G. Insurance 30 B. Feeling under pressure 15 12 The Students’ Union 31 C. Friends 16 A. Your membership 31 D. Thefts and scams 16 B. Getting involved 31 6 Your contract with the University 17 C. Help & assistance 31 A. Common issues 17 D. Entertainment & socialising 31 B. University policy statement on personal information 18 13 Cars, parking and transport 32 7 Medical matters 19 A. Cars 32 A. Health checks, interview and examination of new B. Cycles 32 students 19 C. public transport 32 B. University Health Centre 19 D. Cars and driving licences 33 C. Immunisation 20 E. National travel 33 D. Travel abroad 20 F. Safety on the roads 33 E. Seeking medical help when the University Health G. Safety 33 Centre is closed 20 H. Women’s safety bus 33 F Accidents and Emergencies 20 14 Safety 34 G. Illness in the first few days 20 A. Safety out and about 34 H. practice boundary 21 B. Safety at home 35 I. Dental services 21 C. Women’s safety 35 J. Home visits 21 D. Security Services 35 K. Change of address 21 L. Medical insurance 21 15 Religious matters 35 A. Chaplains and faith representatives 35 8 Help from Student Services Department 22 B. Food shopping 35 A. Student Services Information Desk (ssid) 22 C. Religious holidays/observance during B. Disability & Dyslexia Support Service 22 Intro Week and early days 35 C. Financial support 23 D. Emergencies 23 16 Sport and extra-curricular activities 36 E. Equal Opportunities Policy for Students 23 A. Sport and fitness 36 B. Sheffield Graduate Award 36 C. Skills for Work Certificate 36 D. More 36

2 3 Contents

17 International sheffield 38 A. International opportunities 38 B. Cross-Cultural Living 38 18 Shopping for essentials 40 A. Books and stationery 40 B. Post 40 C Other shopping 40 19 Life in Sheffield 41 A. Our students and the community 41 B. Your neighbours 41 C. City of Sheffield – Civic Information 41 D. Laundry 41 E. Television licences 42 20 Administrative matters 43 A. Change of Address 43 B. Withdrawal 43 C. Enquiries 43 21 Contacts 44

4 Meet our student guides to this publication. Their experience and knowledge will help you to be prepared for your life in Sheffield. They have highlighted some of the challenges and some of the issues that confronted them as new students.

From left to right (starting from the bottom row) Row 1: Marios Lemis, Cyprus, MEng Structural Engineering with Architectural Studies • Yuan Hao Choo, Malaysia, MEng Mechanical Engineering Row 2: Sakib Hossain, Banglandesh, MEng Aerospace Engineering with Private Pilot Instruction • Khashayar Mohammadian, Iran, MSc Architectural Engineering • Min Sun, China, BSc Biomedical Science • Kai Ying Siaw, Thailand, BSc Biomedical Science • Olivia Johnstone, UK/Germany, MA Politics • Elena Marouchou, Cyprus, MSc Human Resources Management • Minoli Peiris, Sri Lanka, MA International Development and Planning • Jessica Wan, Hong Kong, MB,ChB Medicine • Deepika Raman, India, MSc Molecular Medicine Row 3: Junaid Cadinouche, Mauritius, BEng Aerospace Engineering • Dharana Jayawardane, Sri Lanka/Italy, MEng Biomedical Engineering • Kristin Meyer, Germany, LLB Law (European and International) • Phisini Kesonsukhon, Thailand, BSc Psychology • Kunal Chopra, India, MSc Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine • Victoria Keys, UK, MMath, Mathematics • Disha Choure, India, BA Architecture Row 4: Hang Li, China, MSc Nanoscale Science and Techonology • JianKai Yang, China, MEng Chemical Engineering with Chemistry • Simranjit Arora, India, MSc(Eng) Control Systems • Barbora Novakova, Czech Republic, BSc Psychology • Maneka Seesurn, Mauritius, BA Accounting and Financial Management • Tushtee Ghoorah, Mauritius, Management • Avanti Gupta, India, BSc Biomedical Science • Rachel Thomas, UK, BSc Psychology • Row 5: Kunal Gupta, Kenya, MEng Mechanical Engineering • Kartik Chandrasekhar, Kenya, MEng Aerospace Engineering • SriVathsan Kandasamy, Sri Lanka, MEng Aerospace Engineering • Gomolemo Lebanna, Botswana, MEng Mechatronics Engineering • Akeel Sharafali, Kenya, BDS Dentistry • Cubaka Narugethan, DR Congo, BA International Relations and Politics • Magniko Fomene Yane, Cameroon, MEng Mechanical Engineering Row 6: Xiangwei Li, China, BEng Mechanical Engineering • Ahmed Frewan, Libya, PhD in Educational Studies • Gavish Munbauhal, Mauritius, MB,ChB Medicine • Murad Abouammoh, Saudi Arabia, PhD in the Department of Information 4 Studies • Emma Chown, UK, BSc Geography

Before you come/Travelling to Sheffield Section 1/2

1 Before you come

A. ENQUIRERS APPLICANT PORTAL (EAP) 5. TASH is a friendly site, with resources for everyone presented in an engaging, responsive, and flexible please log into your EAP portal regularly. We will send way that was designed collaboratively with current you some updates through this. You need to start students. your registration here as well. 6. User feedback helps the site grow, and users are encouraged to rate resources and suggest new ones B. TASH: The Academic Skills Hub to supplement the collection. Web pages: http://www.tash.group.shef.ac.uk/ 7. The skills needed in graduate employment overlap a 1. The Academic Skills Hub (TASH) is an online great deal with the skills you will need at university, so study skills resource, bringing together high-quality TASH also helps you prepare for your graduate career. resources selected and approved by a university team of students and staff. C. LOOKING AFTER YOURSELF 2. TASH offers information about the skills required for Remember that you will need to look after yourself. Make successful study at Sheffield. sure you know how to cook at least two things you enjoy 3. You can access TASH before you begin university and know how to wash your own clothes. Please see Web wherever you are in the world. pages: www.studentcooking.tv/recipes for useful ideas. 4. It is relevant to all students at all levels in all disciplines, and addresses issues such as time D. PREPARING FOR LIVING WITH OTHER management, academic writing, critical thinking and PEOPLE referencing that students commonly identify as major concerns. Please see page 38

2 Travelling to Sheffield

A. TRAVELLING TO SHEFFIELD BY CAR Continue uphill along Netherthorpe Road to the next roundabout – Junction 6 University Square. Take 1. From the south and east (via M1 and M18, Sheffield the first exit for departments in the Broad Lane Parkway) and Mappin Street areas, and the third exit for the Approach Sheffield on the M1 and leave the motorway Western Bank campus. at junction 33, following the City Centre signs along the 3. From the west and Manchester (via M60, M67, A628 dual carriageway A630/A57/A61 Parkway. Shortly after Woodhead Pass, A616 and A61) entering the 40mph zone, turn right onto the Ring Road at Junction 1 – Cutler’s Gate. Leave the M60 (east) at Junction 24 – signed “Sheffield”. Continue following the “Sheffield” signs Continue along the Ring Road following signs for along the M67 and the A628 Woodhead Pass. Join the “University of Sheffield”, “Barnsley A61” and later A616 and follow signs for “M1” and “Sheffield A616” for “Glossop A57”, through junctions 10, 9, 8 and 7. 10 miles. At junction 7 – Shalesmoor - turn left and continue At the roundabout, follow signs for ‘Sheffield (north) uphill along the Ring Road, still following signs for A61’ and later ‘City Centre A61’ for seven miles, “University of Sheffield” and “Glossop A57”. Continue passing through Grenoside and Hillsborough. At along Netherthorpe Road to the next roundabout – the Ring Road roundabout - junction 7 Shalesmoor junction 6 – University Square. See 5 below. - turn right onto the Ring Road, following signs for Take the first exit for departments in the Broad Lane ‘University of Sheffield’ and ‘Glossop A57’. Continue and Mappin Street areas, and the third exit for the along Netherthorpe Road to the next roundabout - Western Bank campus. junction 6 - University Square. Take the first exit for 2. From the north (via M1 and A61) departments in the Broad Lane and Mappin Street areas, and the third exit for the main Western Bank Leave the M1 at Junction 36 – signed “Sheffield (north) part of the campus. See 5 below. A61”. At the roundabout take the third exit and follow signs for “Sheffield (North) A61” and later “City Centre 4. Map and directions A61” for 9 miles, passing through Grenoside and www.sheffield.ac.uk/visitors/mapsandtravel/car Hillsborough. At the Ring Road roundabout – Junction 7 Shalesmoor – turn right onto the Ring Road following signs for “University of Sheffield” and “Glossop A57”. See 5 below.

7 Section 3 Accommodation on arrival in September

5. Maps and Landmarks B. TRAVELLING FROM THE TRAIN/BUS a. A–Z of Sheffield is a useful map or book with STATIONS TO THE UNIVERSITY alphabetical index of all streets in the City. This can We recommend taxi rather than bus or tram. A taxi be bought at the Tourist Information Office, the costs approximately £7–£9 (cash only). shop in the Students’ Union and in most bookshops and newsagents in Sheffield. Buses will entail a walk at either end with luggage – and, remember, Sheffield is very hilly. b. Landmarks For details, see www.sheffield.ac.uk/visitors/ i. – a large, dark grey tower block (16 storeys) on the central campus, can be seen 1. Taxis from the train/bus stations in Sheffield from some distance. a. There is a taxi rank (“station”) just outside the ii. Royal Hallamshire Hospital – large 18 storey railway station. It is much simpler to take a taxi building. from there than to book one by telephone. These taxis have meters. iii. Tram Lines – one route runs between Hillsborough and City Centre and between b. There is a smaller taxi rank at the bus station. If City Centre and Meadowhall and passes by the there is no taxi there, you can walk to the railway University. (Other routes may take you away station. from the University.) c. Taxi drivers are not familiar with all University c. There are many one-way and no-entry streets in buildings. Make sure you have your University the City Centre not marked on maps. map with you. 6. Parking Very few taxis take credit cards (cash only). a. Central campus. At the weekend, visitors 2. Tram from the train/bus station to central campus can use car parks on Durham Road (behind the a. Trams run from behind the railway station ) or by the Arts Tower. There b. Get off at the University stop for central campus are also parking meters on the road by the Hicks (you will have to walk at least 200m from there). Building; you have to pay to use these except on Sundays and after 6.30pm. Parking in the City Centre is very difficult. C. TRAVELLING TO SHEFFIELD FROM AIRPORTS b. Accommodation & Campus Services will send Please refer to webpages: you information about parking near residences. http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/newstudents/welcome/ home/fromairport.html

3 Accommodation on arrival in September

TO ARRANGE ACCOMMODATION PRIOR TO 2. a) If you have to arrive in Sheffield before your YOUR ARRIVAL IN SHEFFIELD PLEASE VISIT contract start date, you may be able to arrange www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation temporary accommodation - see Section B, ‘Early arrivals’ below. A. SEPTEMBER ARRIVALS b) International Residential Orientation includes accommodation from 12 - 17 September 2011. 1. If you have been allocated a room in University 3. If for any reason you cannot arrive by Sunday 18 accommodation: September 2011, you must notify the Accommodation a. print your Residence Contract and bring it with Office on 0114 222 4488 or at accommodationoffice@ you. sheffield.ac.uk. You must make contact before 18 b. Your Residence Contract will start on either September or your room may not be held for you and Saturday 17 or Sunday 18 September 2011. may be given to another student. The details of your specific start date are in your contract. You must arrive in Sheffield no later B. EARLY ARRIVALS than Sunday 18 September 2011. You will be sent details by email during the summer of where 1. There are a limited number of rooms available before and when to collect your keys. Key collection Saturday 17 September 2011. information will also be available on a. If you have to arrive in Sheffield before your www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation. You will Residence Contract start date, (for example, due only be able to collect your keys: to flights) your room may not be available. Contact • If you have accepted your Residence Contract the Accommodation Office +44 (0)114 222 4488 or AND [email protected]. Alternatively visit www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation/ for • Paid your deposit further details and availability. AND • Set up a payment plan

8 Accommodation on arrival in September Section 3

b. If there is no availability, you will must arrange your own temporary accommodation in a hotel or guest house. Details of local hotels and guest houses can be found at www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation/ temporary_accommodation.html

2. If there is a room in University accommodation before the start of your Residence Contract (see 1 above) a. We will provide details of where to collect your keys. b. Rent will be charged per additional day. 3. If you arrive in Sheffield without arranging accommodation for the academic year: a. Contact the Accommodation Office on +44 (0)114 222 4488 or email: accommodationoffice@ sheffield.ac.uk as soon as possible. I felt so homesick when I first shut the door in my room. But putting out some special b. There is no guarantee that there will be a room “ things made a great link with home and available in University accommodation but the cheered me up. team will do their best to arrange accommodation for you. Ahmed Frewan c. Working hours are Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm BST. ” 2. Bring a favourite ornament or item to remind you of d. Location is The Edge, The Endcliffe Village, 34 home. Endcliffe Crescent, Sheffield, S10 3ED (map ref 10). Please note that it will be extremely busy during 3. Bring or buy a couple of mugs so you can invite new Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September. If you can neighbours in for a drink. wait, it will be better to contact them from Monday 4. Make your bed before you do anything else. 19 September when any vacancies will be known. Attractive bedding can make the room bright and e. The Accommodation Office also have a team personal in an instant. If you’re moving into University based on campus to help with enquires about accommodation, bedding packs will be available to accommodation at propertywithUS, Level 4, purchase online for you to collect when you get your University House (location map 119). You can also keys. use their online Housing Finder at 5. Be brave: say hello to your new neighbours! www.sheffield.ac.uk/housingfinder/intro.html 6. Residential Mentors live in University 4. Local hotels and guesthouses accommodation and are there to help you settle To book temporary accommodation in a hotel in, look after your wellbeing and support you with or guest house, we recommend that you do this any welfare, accommodation, academic or personal as soon as possible; these are very busy during issues you may have. If you are feeling homesick or September. Please visit www.sheffield.ac.uk/ are struggling with your course, they are trained to accommodation/temporary_accommodation. provide advice and support. You’ll get to meet your html for a list of local hotels and guesthouses. Residential Mentor when you move in.

C. RENT PAYMENTS E. WANT TO MOVE? 1. Your first Residence Charge (rent) payment is due 1. Remember, settling in to a new home and getting on 5 October 2011. When you accept your contract, used to a new type of accommodation can take a lot of you’ll be asked to set up a payment plan which means time. you will be contractually bound to pay by this date. 2. The first few weeks will be very busy with lots of 2. If rent cannot be paid by 5 October 2011 (for new experiences. If you feel unsettled or unhappy example, because you are a UK student relying on in your University accommodation and would like to loans which come after registration etc.), you must discuss moving, please first talk to your Residential inform the Income Office, Level 6, University House Mentor about your concerns - they will be able to offer before 5 October or email: residencefees@sheffield. you support and advice. ac.uk 3. It will not be possible for you to move in the first four weeks, as during this period the Accommodation D. YOUR NEW ROOM Office will be busy helping those who have no accommodation, late arrivals and processing any We hope you will be happy when you first arrive in your vacancies. This also allows you the time to make new room. However, we do know that some students will friends and get to know your neighbours. find it very different from what they are used to in their home country. 4. If, after four weeks of moving in, you are sure you would like to move, please contact Customer Also, missing home or “homesickness” can affect lots of Services at The Edge, The Ridge or propertywithUS students. Here are some tips for helping you settle in: in University House where application forms for 1. Bring some photographs of special people, places, transfers are available. Please note transfers cannot be and pets to display. guaranteed and are subject to availability. 8 9 Section 4 Intro Week 2011, 19 September – 25 September

4 Intro Week 2011, 19 September – 25 September

WHAT CAN GO WRONG IF YOU DO NOT READ C. MAKING THE MOST OF INTRO WEEK THIS SECTION? 1. Take your time. • You might miss important events. a. Intro Week is your chance to start exploring • You might delay registration and the start what university life can offer you, socially as well of your studies. as academically. But don’t feel you have to go You might feel ‘left out’ or isolated. • along with the crowd, or that you have to sign up for anything you don’t want to do or feel You might hear the term “Freshers’ Week” – it’s the uncomfortable about. same as Intro Week! b. You could make lasting friends during Intro Week, but don’t worry if it takes longer to meet like- A. THE UNIVERSITY’S AIMS FOR ORIENTATION minded people. There are over 20,000 full-time students in this University, and you have plenty of AND INTRO WEEK time to meet and make good friends. During your early days at University, we want you to start: c. You are still you and do not have to change to fit 1. Being well-informed about academic and social in. issues. 2. Feeling a bit left out or nervous? 2. Understanding something about university life. If you feel uncomfortable about turning up to an 3. Recognising the skills needed to succeed. event alone or haven’t found an event to suit you 4. Engaging with your subject. yet: • go to one of our Info Points to ask for advice 5. Being confident about your future. • refer to the Intro Week programme 6. Feeling you belong. • E-mail: [email protected] 7. Knowing where to go for help. • Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1322 to seek advice and 8. Making meaningful contacts. information. B. EVENTS BEFORE INTRO WEEK 3. Intro Week is not typical of university life. If things don’t seem to be going your way, don’t Local Students panic. Give it time. You will find your place in this 1. a. You will be invited to take part in events during community (see Section 4). a special “Discovery Week”, Monday 12 - Friday 16 4. Look out for the daily posters, bulletins and September. What’s On publications for the most up-to-date b. There will also be an opportunity before Discovery suggestions. Week for you and your family to attend a welcome evening on Wednesday 7 September. D. IN INTRO WEEK YOU MUST c. You will receive more details in late August. 1. Attend Introductory Academic Meeting – see page 2. Mature students welcome event – Tuesday 6 12 and Registration: The Essential Guide 2011-12 September and Friday 9 September. (Invitations will 2. Register (with the University) – see Registration: The be sent by mail middle of August by Student Support Essential Guide 2011-12 & Guidance.) 3. Register with CiCS – see page 25 and Registration: 3. International students early arrivals: The Essential Guide 2011-12 Information Fair Friday 16 September, 10am–1pm, The 4. Attend Health Service interview – see page 19 and Gallery, Students’ Union. Registration: The Essential Guide 2011-12 ALL new international student early arrivals, 5. Attend University Introduction talk their families and friends are welcome to attend the University’s Information Fair in The Gallery, a. Undergraduates – see G3a below Students’ Union Building on Friday 16 September b. Taught Postgraduates – see G3b below 10.00am–1.00pm 6. Register with the police (some international students) 7. Carry any letter from your department.

10 Intro Week 2011, 19 September – 25 September Section 4

E. INFORMATION POINTS (IN ASSOCIATION WITH SSiD) IN INTRO WEEK 1. Throughout Intro Week, including the first weekend, there will be information points around the campus to help you find out: • what’s happening that day, • where you can get what you need, • how to meet up with other newcomers, • and provide a starting point for some informal social activities 2. We hope that these Information Points will save you having to go to too many different places to get help. 3. The staff on these desks will be students who have been trained to answer a range of questions. They know just how it feels to be new on campus. They will The Union of Students will make a collection be wearing navy blue tops and will be there to help you for the Southern African Scholarship fund in your first few days. “ at the end of these meetings. If you wish to 4. Information Points (in association with SSiD) will be contribute, please have £1 ready. Further located as follows: information will be sent by the Students’ Union prior to this meeting. • University House Level 4/Reception (9am–5.30pm, 17–23 Sept) Emma Chown ” • SSiD (10am–4pm, 17–18 Sept, 9am–5pm, 19–23 Sept and 10am–4pm, 24 Sept) c. Students’ Union and Student Services hold • Octagon Centre (9am–5.30pm, 19 Sept) numerous events during the week including: • The Edge, Endcliffe Village (10am–4pm, 17–18 Sept “Give it a Go activities”, quizzes, visits, games, and 9am–5pm,19–23 Sept) “disco” style events, beer garden and BBQs. • Jessops West, Ground Floor Reception d. Students in University residences will be invited (10am–2pm, 19–23 Sept) to activities in the residences. • The Ridge (10am–4pm, 17–18 Sept and 9am–5pm, 2. Supporting you as you arrive 19–23 Sept) a. Student Services Information Desk (SSiD), Students’ Union Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 F. DOCUMENTS CONFIRMING STUDENT September 10am–4pm and Saturday 24 September 10am–4pm for general enquiries and assistance STATUS (NOT housing nor academic queries, nor 1. Your UCard is your student ID within the University. programme queries for Socrates-ERASMUS/Study You will be given this as part of the registration Abroad). Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1269 or +44 (0)114 222 process. You cannot get this before registration. 1267, Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1304. 2. If you need further proof of your registration as a b. Parents’ Meetings Saturday 17 September student, you can request this after registration from 3-5pm and Sunday 18 September 2–4pm. We SSiD (see page 44 for contact details). The University’s invite parents to drop in for a cup of tea and to records are not updated instantly. Your registration meet senior staff from the University including status will be available to staff the day after you staff in Student Services and Accommodation and register. This means you will have to wait one day after Campus Services and current students. As well as registering before such documents can be provided. the drop in, Student Services staff will be giving a talk on the student experience and the University’s 3. Please only request proof of registration if you relationship with you as a parent. These meetings need such documents for a specific purpose. will take place in the Common Room, Level 5, 4. See page 31 for information about additional student University House. (See invitation in this mailing if ID. appropriate.)

G. INTRO WEEK EVENTS 1. Intro Week Programme a. You will receive a small booklet with all events listed in it. If you do not receive it pre-arrival, pick one up from one of the Information Points or SSiD. b. The Intro week programme will be online www.sheffieldSU.com/intro Union weblink

10 11 Section 4 Intro Week 2011, 19 September – 25 September

3. WELCOME Meetings with Senior University staff and Union Officers (Please arrive promptly) a. Undergraduate and Visiting students Monday 19 September 2011, Convocation Hall, Octagon Centre. Please attend at the appropriate time for your Faculty or Programme. 9:30–10.30 Faculty of Engineering Medicine Foundation Year for Eng & Science 11:00–12.00 Chemistry Geography Information Studies I’m not into nightclubs, crowds or drink- Journalism ing. The other guys/girls in my flat enjoyed Mathematics & Statistics “ that kind of thing so I felt a bit left out at Molecular Biology & Biotechnology first. But I found that there were other things Physics & Astronomy going on where I could have fun and talk to Politics new people. Psychology Akeel Sharafali Sociological Studies ” 12:30–13.30 Animal & Plant Science 4. Intro Fairs, Students’ Union Architecture Visit these events to find out about the many student Dentistry clubs and societies relating to sports, hobbies, religion, East Asian Studies national groups, politics, leisure activities and so on. There Economics are societies especially for Masters or PhD students too. Landscape Law a. Activities Fair, Thursday 22 September Management School From 10am to 3pm, Octagon Centre Town & Regional Planning An introduction to many of the Students’ Union’s 15:00–16:00 activities and societies Faculty of Arts and Humanities b. Sports Fair, Friday 23 September Biomedical Science From 10am to 3pm, Octagon Centre Erasmus, Study Abroad and Visiting Students Students’ Union sports teams and societies b. Full-time Graduate students on Taught c. The Freshers’ Fair Wednesday 28 September Programmes Convocation Hall, Octagon Centre 10am–3pm Tuesday 20 September 2011, Richard The Freshers’ Fair is packed with freebies, Roberts Building, Auditorium entertainment, competition prizes and money-off 9.30 - 10.30 Faculty of Social Sciences vouchers. The Freshers’ Fair also gives you the (excluding Management opportunity to find out about work and travel School) opportunities 11:30–12.30 Faculties of Engineering, 5. Give it a go: value for money Students’ Union pure Science and Visiting activities with no commitment! Just pay and Students play…. What are you waiting for? 13:30–14.30 Faculties of Medicine, a. Organised by the Students’ Union to give you Dentistry and Health, Arts some inspiration for your free time and personal and Management School development, Give it a Go provides a wealth of experiences, with sports, taster sessions, trips, events, activities, courses and many other happenings for you to get involved in. The Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching, the Director of Student Services and the Students’ b. A special Intro Week Extravaganza includes Union Officers will introduce you to the opportunities breakdancing, beer tasting, Indian head massage, and challenges available for your personal and salsa, sign language, scuba diving, golf, Bollywood academic development. The meeting will also explain dance, Thai boxing and much more! how the Students’ Union works and give you an c. Give it a Go operates on a pay and play basis, so insight into the many social and sporting activities on you don’t have to join anything – just choose the offer. activity you want to do and buy your ticket from the Students’ Union Box Office!

12 Intro Week 2011, 19 September – 25 September Section 4

d. Further information see listings in your Intro Week b. If Sheffield Mentors operates in your department, programme, around the Students’ Union Building we will contact you before you arrive. Your mentor during Intro Week or at www.sheffieldSU.com/ will contact you in Intro Week or soon after. intro and www.sheffield.ac.uk/union c. Mentoring beyond academic departments may be 6. Mentoring activities available. See website: a. Sheffield Mentors is a peer mentoring scheme www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/welfare/mentoring for undergraduates that operates in most departments and is also available for all mature students.

7. This is a guide only. An updated and more extensive programme will be available on arrival.

DAY TIME EVENT LOCATION COST/INFORMATION

Saturday 17 3-5 pm Drop-In for Parents/ Common Room, Light refreshments provided. September Carers of new students Level 5, University House Student Services staff will be available for information & advice.

Sunday 18 2-4 pm Drop-In for Parents/ Common Room, Light refreshments provided. September Carers of new students Level 5, University House Student Services staff will be available for information & advice.

Sunday 18 7-10 pm “Centertainment”, Meet student assistants Bring £4.00 per game for bowling September bowling, travel by tram at Interval Café Bar, & £3.70 for the tram. Students’ Union Visit “Centertainment” in Sheffield for a great night out.

Sunday 18 7.30-10 pm Games evening Common Room, Got a competitive streak? September Level 5, University House Then this is the night for you.

Monday 19 7-9 pm Hindu Students’ Meet at Students’ Union Transport to local temple and the chance September Welcome Celebration at 6.30 pm to meet the Hindu faith adviser and local Community - and other Hindu Students’

Monday 19 7.30 pm Mature Undergraduate Interval Bar Bring money for refreshments. September Students’ get-together Opportunity to see what the Interval has to offer & to meet like-minded people.

Monday 19 8-10 pm Quiz Night Food Court, Free quiz September Level 4, University House Come & test your wits against the quiz master.

Tuesday 20 12-2 pm Lunch for mature Fulwood Room, Lunch is free – a chance to meet your September mentors & mentees Level 5, University House mentor and other new mature students. (Sheffield Mentors)

Tuesday 20 12-2 pm Lunch for Local Abbeydale Room, Lunch is free – meet other “commuters” September commuter students Level 5, University House

Tuesday 20 9-11 pm Jazz Night Common Room, Concert free. September Level 5, University House Great atmosphere and smooth jazz.

Wednesday 4-5 pm International Fulwood Room Come along and find out about the 21 September Experiences Abroad Level 5, University House opportunities to spend time abroad as part of your degree.

Wednesday 5-7 pm Christian Chaplaincy Dining Room, Tickets for Barbeque cost £2.00 21 September Barbeque Stephenson Hall of available from the Chaplaincy or at Residence the event. Information about local churches for Christians of all traditions new to Sheffield.

Thursday 5.30-9-00 pm Muslim Students’ Exhibition Space, An opportunity to meet other Muslim 22 September Reception students & find out what Sheffield has to offer.

12 13 Section 4 Intro Week 2011, 19 September – 25 September

DAY TIME EVENT LOCATION COST/INFORMATION

Thursday 22 6.00 pm. Mature students’ Venue to be confirmed Bring money for your meal and drinks. September Curry night Meeting place to be confirmed

Friday 23 7.30 pm Mature Undergraduate To be confirmed Bring money for refreshments. September Students’ pub crawl See the sights of Sheffield via the local pubs.

Saturday 24 10.30 am Meadowhall Shopping Meet Assistants at Bring £3.70 for the tram & £7.00 for a September Centre Cinema University tram stop cinema ticket. A visit to the infamous Meadowhall? All the shopping you could want under one roof.

Sunday 25 2.30-5.30 pm Family event for Fulwood Room, A free event especially for new students September students with Level 5, with young children – not to be missed! young children University House Meet both new & current student parents, with a children’s entertainer and lots of games for young children. Information and advice available. Families welcome.

Sunday 25 1.00 pm Barbecue for To be confirmed A chance for Jewish students September Jewish Students to meet up.

8. Global Intro Fiesta Saturday 8 October 2011 a. See posters for further details. b. For home and international students.

I needed loads of passport photos in Intro Week. It’s a good idea to bring some to “ avoid the queues at photo booths! Victoria Keys ”

14 Challenges and difficulties in early days Section 5

5 Challenges and difficulties in early days

WHAT CAN GO WRONG IF YOU DO NOT READ 3. Celebrating arrival in large crowds is not to THIS SECTION? everyone’s taste • If things don’t go smoothly immediately, 4. Large events often don’t give an opportunity for real you might think you are the only one communication and contact • You could be more vulnerable to problems 5. Lots of people feel more comfortable in smaller • You won’t know how to deal with issues groups that arise 6. Lots of people stay in their rooms because they find the crowds not to their taste 7. Local students can feel excluded from Intro Week social activities if they only come on campus for compulsory events. Take part in “Discovery Week” to make some contacts to join in with (see page 10, B1). Try and do at least one activity each day. 8. Starting university anywhere is like moving to a foreign country. The impact of the culture shock involved is often underestimated. It doesn’t hit everyone at the beginning. Some people find the period just after the Christmas break difficult; others experience a low period much nearer the beginning of their time here. 9. The stress of dealing with so many new experiences and procedures can be exhausting or even make you feel a bit down. I read this bit again in Intro Week. It’s like The University of Sheffield and its Union have put you were reading my mind. It’s good to together services and events to meet a range of tastes, “ know what I’m feeling is normal. needs and interests (see pages 13 – 14). Dharana Jayawardane 10. International students are in a brand new country - an ” additional pressure. Home students can make life so much better for them by being welcoming and offer A. INTRODUCTION TO INTRO WEEK support. Intro Week is not a typical University of Sheffield week. The emphasis is on registering, sorting out courses, B. FEELING UNDER PRESSURE settling into your room…. You are being bombarded with masses of information Everyone arrives with their own expectations: some which you need. During your time at university, you will of these will be met during Intro Week; some will take also be bombarded by all sorts of information and choices longer; others may have been unrealistic and not be met by organisations or individuals who want you to join, at all. start or buy something. This can be anything from a bank For many students, Intro Week is also about socialising, account to a visit to a night club, from life insurance to drinking, partying. Commercial clubs and bars work religion, a relationship to excessive use of alcohol. The hard to persuade you to leave your money in their tactics used can include leaflets, persuasive words face- premises. The Students’ Union provides big events to to-face, threat of being left out, emails and befriending. welcome you. Some groups and organisations actually target vulnerable students – those who are taking longer to make friends or Your department[s] will need to meet you and help you do not know how things work in the UK. prepare for academic work. Make sure that you don’t miss any of their events; a lot of the people you will get to know HERE ARE SOME GOLDEN RULES: best will be those in your department. 1. You are still you. You do not have to change your And everyone, but everyone, is trying to find out how views or personal or moral code to fit in. Just because and where they will fit into this huge community. a group of fellow students choose something does not Everyone wants to make contacts with people they can mean that it is right for you too. feel comfortable with. 2. Don’t let someone pressure you into something you It looks as if absolutely everyone is having a great time. are not sure you want or need, or something which Lots of individuals worry that they are the only one taking does not feel comfortable for you. more time to find their own way. In fact,we know that: 3. Don’t sign anything (except for University 1. Up to 40% of students feel somewhat or very contracts!) until you have had time to think it over homesick during Intro Week. and compare alternatives. If you are being pressurised to commit, ask yourself why they don’t want you to 2. Many new students feel isolated and worry that have time to think. everyone else is settling in better than them

14 15 Section 5 Challenges and difficulties in early days

3. Use the new student MUSE (My University of Sheffield Environment) message board (via computer). We will email you about this in the first week of the semester see section 9 point 5. 4. International students can read the “International Bulletins” (email) you will be sent (after registration) at least weekly. These will list events, meetings, news. 5. There will be some new schemes for certain groups of students. See www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/welfare/ mentoring/ 6. See A above.

D. THEFTS AND SCAMS Sheffield is the safest large city in the UK. However, it is not crime-free. Unfortunately, criminals do exist here At first I thought I had to be polite to all the and they know that newcomers to the city may not be as people who approached me wanting me to careful as those in longer-established residence. “ sign up for something or join something. 1. Always lock doors and windows when leaving your Then I saw that students who had been in room, even for a short while. Sheffield for longer basically just ignored them and that seemed acceptable. I did 2. Never leave valuable items where they can be seen think that some groups targeted interna- from outside. tional students – especially some religious 3. Do not keep large sums of cash in your room or on groups. your person. Rachel Thomas 4. If someone in a public place offers you a bargain ” (such as a laptop computer), be very sceptical. Students have parted with hundreds of pounds to 4. Don’t make commitments to individuals or groups conmen who provide them with nothing. too early – one USA university suggests making no 5. Never give cash or PIN (bank security numbers) major decisions for 6 months! It takes time to learn for accounts to new “friends” or acquaintances, even who or what is genuine or right for you. if: 5. It is okay to say no. Don’t feel that you have to say a. They are from your home country/area. yes to be polite. Watch students who have been here b. They seem to be offering help. for a while and you will see that they often walk past those with something to sell or petitions to sign with Students have lost thousands of pounds in this barely a shake of the head. way. 6. Don’t give up and join in with something just because 6. Do not walk alone late at night. you fear being isolated or thought unfriendly. All sorts 7. Never leave your property unattended outside your of people are at or around universities. If you don’t room find your level or your kind of people straight away, this does not mean that you never will. It all takes time. a. Even for a minute. b. Even on University premises. C. FRIENDS 8. INSURE YOUR PROPERTY. This is the only chance you have to recover the costs of any property stolen. Making friends always takes time. If you don’t make (If you have insurance for your room, check the friends immediately by luck: policy; it may not be as extensive as you need for all 1. Attend events listed in “Intro Week”, pages 13 and 14. situations). 2. Join clubs or societies (see “Intro Fairs”, page 12) If early meetings don’t suit you, don’t give up. Things settle down after a few weeks and it will be worth trying again later.

16 Your contract with the University Section 6

6 Your contract with the University

WHAT CAN GO WRONG IF YOU DO NOT READ b. If you cheat in some way the University may THIS SECTION? take action against you under the Regulations • You might not follow University procedures as to the Discipline of Students. This may • Things might not go smoothly result in exclusion, failure or other appropriate penalties, even if the plagiarism is not • You could risk not getting your degree discovered until much later. Please see Academic Diary and Student Handbook A. COMMON ISSUES 2011–12 or Code of Practice for Research Students and Supervisors for a University Statement on Every university has sets of rules and regulations. Plagiarism. Read the Regulations. When you register, you enter a contract, promising to obey the regulations. They help c. Ask in your department/school for further you to understand your rights and obligations. The full information. Regulations are set out in the University Calendar, which 4. Invigilated Examinations (students on taught is available for consultation in the Library and via the web courses) pages www.sheffield.ac.uk/calendar/ a. Formally invigilated examinations are held at A few points regarding the Regulations are highlighted venues on and off campus and are usually centrally below. They are not necessarily more important than timetabled other points but cover areas which have concerned some students in the past. b. Mark examination dates in your diary each year and familiarise yourself with the regulations: 1. Registration www.sheffield.ac.uk/calendar/ a. If you, or your sponsor owe money to the c. If you find that an examination might be set on University for fees, you risk: a day when your religious beliefs would prevent i. not being allowed to register for the next you attending, you must complete a request session; for religious observance form, available from SSiD or from webpage www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/ ii. not being awarded a degree or diploma; exams/observance It will then be possible for iii. not being able to extend your visa (non- timetabling to take account of your needs. If you do European students). not notify the Examinations Team early enough, it iv. exclusion from your course. will not be possible to alter timetables for you. b. Tier 4 visas for UK (non-EEA students) must d. If you have a disability, learning difficulty,such as be for University of Sheffield or you cannot dyslexia or a medical condition you must contact register. See www.sheffield.ac.uk/newstudents/ the Disability and Dyslexia Support Service in the international/immigration/entry.html Hillsborough Centre, . 2. Attendance a. You are required to: i. attend classes punctually and regularly; ii. be in residence from the beginning to the end of each semester (vacations excepted). This includes examination periods. If you fail exams you will also be expected to be available to re-sit in the summer examination period – second half of August. b. Non-attendance can lead to exclusion from examinations. c. Non-EU students are not (normally) allowed to stay in the UK unless they are attending a full-time course. See www.sheffield.ac.uk/newstudents/ international/immigration Non-attendance is reported to immigration authorities. 3. Non-Invigilated Examinations (all students) e.g. I didn’t get my exam results through the post. course-work for assessment, projects, theses, When I went into SSiD to query this, they dissertations, extended essays etc. “ told me they had sent them to my parents’ a. Cheating in non-invigilated examinations. address! Whoops …. I’d forgotten to enter a Please refer to the following webpages: correspondence address. www.sheffield.ac.uk/lets/design/unfair Germain/Cubaka” Narugetha

16 17 Section 6 Your contract with the University

e. If you are unwell or experience serious e. If you change your local address at any time, you problems (such as a bereavement) during an must update your record immediately at: Student examination period, you must talk to staff before Services Information Desk (SSiD), Students’ Union examinations are marked. Building or on-line www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/ f. Timetables are normally published three weeks record/pin before each exam period commences. (See B. ‘University Procedures’ 1. ‘Your University 5. Your details on your record. Check that your Record’ below.) You must also notify immediately: personal details are correct and updated as necessary. i. University Health Centre or your doctor. These may be needed in an emergency. ii. Your dentist. See www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/record/pin or ask in iii. Your bank. Student Services Information Desk for advice. iv. police, Foreign Nationals Department, Police a. i. Sheffield address and telephone number Headquarters (if registered). ii. mobile telephone number, where applicable iii. home address and telephone number B. UNIVERSITY POLICY STATEMENT ON iv. correspondence address for vacations if you PERSONAL INFORMATION will not be at your home address In order to carry out its statutory, academic and v. number of children, where applicable administrative functions the University needs to collect and process personal information relating to many vi. next of kin or other person to be contacted if categories of people, which include its students, staff, you are seriously ill. suppliers and people who are studied as part of a b. You can update your details yourself on-line. research project. The University takes the confidentiality c. Next of Kin of all personal information very seriously and consequently takes all reasonable steps to comply with It is very important to record whom we should the principles of the Data Protection Act 1998. To this end, contact just in case of an emergency. the University aims to collect personal information only in See Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011-12 order to meet specifically planned, agreed and necessary (taught students) or Code of Practice for Research purposes, and to retain that information only for as long Degree Programmes (research students and as those purposes remain valid. Ordinarily, the University supervisors). will not pass on details of its individual past or present students or staff to any third party, save where required 6. Address by law or statutory obligations. a. You must ensure that the University has your Information may be passed to third parties, e.g. partner current residential address in Sheffield. This is institutions with the express consent of the individual a University regulation. University correspondence concerned. Staff and students may access their own will be sent to this address. current records; the University will, at regular intervals, b. The email address we shall use is the provide current staff and students with information held University one. It is your responsibility to check within their own records; they are encouraged to correct this regularly. This is the only email address we will any factual inaccuracies. contained therein. Any questions use. regarding the University’s data protection policy should c. Your email address, can be found by anyone be addressed to the Registrar and Secretary. For further looking in the (externally available) directory. If you information on personal information, please refer to the do not wish your address to be visible there, tell Personal Information Policy and the Guidelines for Staff CiCS staff when you pick up your starter pack – Dealing with Personal Information. see page 25. d. We do not give addresses to other students or anyone (except University staff) without your permission. All student records are strictly confidential. This is in accordance with University regulations and UK law. See B below.

18 Medical matters Section 7

7 Medical matters

All new students must attend a registration interview b. Dependants living within the practice boundary with staff of the University Health Service. only (outlined on map on page 21) can register (See 4 below) with the University Health Centre (subject to the availability of resources). c. Dependants living outside the practice boundary should register with a local doctor. d. Details of medical services are on the University Health Service website www.sheffield.ac.uk/ health and on the Practice leaflet. 2. Academic Support a. The University Health Service is able to liaise with your Department/Tutor (with your permission) about health issues that might affect your studies and make special arrangements for exams if necessary. b. UHS can also liaise with other agencies within Student Services, i.e. the University Counselling Service, Disability and Dyslexia Support Service and Student Support & Guidance on your behalf with You really need to register with a doctor. your permission. Other health services/practices You never know when you might need to see do not offer this level of support. “ one in an emergency. 3. The University recommends that you register with Avanti Gupta ” the University Health Centre. a. Other centres or practices may charge for services which are free at the University Health Centre. A. HEALTH CHECKS, INTERVIEW AND b. The University Health Centre offers an integrated EXAMINATION OF NEW STUDENTS support service for students of the University of Sheffield. 1. Health Checks c. We believe that the UHS offers the best medical Every student must: support service for students. a. Complete the on-line questionnaire at: 4. To register with the University Health Centre you www.sheffield.ac.uk/health - this should be done must: prior to arrival in Sheffield whenever possible. 1. a. complete the on-line pre-arrival forms (including b. Attend an interview if required by the doctor. a confidential online medical questionnaire) 2. Health Interview/medical registration, and before you arrive in Sheffield, or register as a interviews when required, with the University Health student. See Registration: The Essential Guide Centre practice will be conducted during Intro Week. 2011-12. Please see Registration: . The Essential Guide 2011-12 b. Complete the NHS registration form GMS1 – this 3. Past or pre-existing conditions. will take place when you attend your registration It is important that you tell medical staff about any interview conditions such as mental ill health, eating disorders • bring with you either your current medical or other issues. They will not tell University staff card or your NHS number and current without your permission. Coming to a new place can doctor’s name and address (UK students) exacerbate some medical problems. • International students who have not previously been registered with the NHS, must tell us the B. UNIVERSITY HEALTH CENTRE date you first arrived in the UK. 1. The University of Sheffield has a purpose built, c. Be interviewed by a doctor or nurse University Health Centre offering National Health, (if appropriate). primary care, medical services. d. Have a fuller medical investigation (subsequently a. All students of the University (registered for by appointment) if the doctor advises this. more than six months) are entitled to register for care with the University Health Centre. Those here for less than 6 months will be seen as temporary residents.

18 19 Section 7 Medical matters

5. Females (students or dependants) aged 25 or over 2. EU nationals travelling in Europe should take the e.health card to make a claim for any medical a. if you are/have been sexually active and have had a cervical smear (Pap test) in your treatment on return to the UK. Applications for this are obtainable from Post Offices. own country/ home area, bring a report of this medical test when registering with the 3. Non-EU nationals should take out private medical Health Service. This will allow us to follow up any insurance when travelling elsewhere in Europe or abnormalities for you. beyond. b. It is routine to ask all women over the age of 25 to attend for a test but you can ask for it to be E. SEEKING MEDICAL HELP WHEN THE deferred. UNIVERSITY HEALTH CENTRE IS CLOSED c. If you wish to have the test done, please make an 1. Telephone the University Health Service on appointment with a nurse 222 2100 to connect to the out of hours services. 6. Children who have been immunised: bring their 2. Telephone National Health Service Direct certificates of immunisation with you. on 0845 46 47 (24 hours) or see web pages: 7. a. When you have received your NHS number, you www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk can arrange to get a PIN number from the 3. Go to the NHS Walk-In Centre located at the University Health Centre. This will enable you to: Sheffield City GP Health Centre on Broad Lane, i. access appointments on-line Sheffield open from 8.00 am – 10.00 pm ii. request repeat prescriptions 4. The Minor Injuries Unit is located at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital open from 8.00am–8.00pm, 7 iii. change your address and, in the future, view days a week providing a nurse led service for minor your medical record. injuries. b. Alternatively, telephone the surgery on 5. Seek the advice of a pharmacist at any chemist/ 0114 222 2100; either use the automated telephone pharmacy shop, for remedies for coughs, colds, booking system or speak directly to a receptionist. stomach upsets and skin irritation and other minor ailments. C. IMMUNISATION 6. Hospitals are likely to charge if a student, 1. All students should be immunised against dependant or visitor is not eligible for treatment under a. Tuberculosis (students from some countries must the NHS. do this to qualify for a visa. See Information for New International Students 2011-12 pages 13–14). F ACCIDENTS AND EMERGENCIES b. Tetanus e. Measles 1. In cases of accident but not minor illness, c. Polio f. Mumps anyone may obtain help from a hospital accident and MMR emergency department. In Sheffield this is at the d. Meningitis C g. Rubella/German Northern General Hospital (for adults) and Sheffield measles } Children’s Hospital for children. (if you have an immunisation card or book - please 2. For serious accidents and illness requiring bring this with you when you register) emergency transfer to a hospital telephone 999. 2. All students, on courses where there is clinical contact with patients, must be immunised against G. ILLNESS IN THE FIRST FEW DAYS Hepatitis B. Antigen levels will be measured for Hepatitis B and MMR, prior to commencement of the 1. If you need medical advice before you have registered course. Students found to be carriers of Hepatitis with a doctor, you can: B will be counselled. This will be carried out by a. Visit the University Health Centre. Occupational Health. b. See E1–6. 3. Those going abroad are reminded that they should please ensure that you ensure that other necessary vaccinations are carried 2. If you do become unwell, inform a friend or residence mentor, so that they out in good time. Information and vaccination can keep in contact with you to make sure that your requirements may be obtained from the University condition does not worsen to a point where you are Health Centre and via the UHS web pages. unable to call for help yourself. www.sheffield.ac.uk/health 3. If you think it could be meningitis, tell the doctor over the phone. Information about the signs and D. TRAVEL ABROAD symptoms of meningitis can be found at: 1. The National Health Service does not cover www.sheffield.ac.uk/health travel abroad. Provision of care varies from country to country and medical insurance is strongly recommended.

20 Medical matters Section 7

H. PRACTICE BOUNDARY

I. DENTAL SERVICES K. CHANGE OF ADDRESS It is very difficult to find a National Health Dentist. If you change your address on the University record, However, the University does recommend that you are you must inform the Health Service as well as the registered with a dentist. University. 1. A list of current NHS Dentists is available from: a. Sheffield Family Health Service L. MEDICAL INSURANCE tel: +44 (0)114 258 8211 a. Is necessary for: b. University Health Centre web site i. short-stay, non-EU students (6 months or less). www.sheffield.ac.uk/health ii. the period between leaving home and arriving c. NHS Direct on 0845 46 47. in Sheffield. d The Student Advice Centre. iii. travel outside UK – all students. 2. An emergency dentist may be contacted on iv. for all relatives or friends accompanying/ 0114 271 1050. visiting students from abroad. v. the period between completing studies and J. HOME VISITS leaving UK (if immigration status is changed 1. A doctor will make a home visit only if a patient from student). is too ill to come to the Health Centre. If at all b. Not necessary for: possible, patients are expected to visit the Health i. UK/EU nationals Centre. Call the Health Service before 11.00am if possible. ii. students whose courses last/will last more than 6 months 2. If an illness seems really serious outside opening hours (at nights or at the weekend), a doctor can be iii. students’ dependants (spouse, children under called to the home. It may not be a doctor that the 18) who live with them in UK. patient knows and the wait for a visit may be quite long. Make sure that you have written your doctor’s telephone number on the back of this booklet, Tel: +44 (0)114 222 2100.

20 21 Section 8 Help from Student Services Department

8 Help from Student Services Department

WHAT CAN GO WRONG IF YOU DO NOT READ • Change of status forms THIS SECTION? • Module add/drop forms • You won’t know where to get help • Change of personal details • You may encounter problems • Academic verifications • Council tax exemption certificates Student Services Department deals with a range of • Transcripts services to students. For information about all of these, please see Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011-12 • Examinations: calculator and dictionary approval (taught students) or Code of Practice for Research Degree • UCard replacements Programmes (research students and supervisors). • Examinations: clash and re-sit forms • Visa extension scheme • Help with any concerns about your time in Sheffield SSiD is also a central point for general information about the University providing leaflets, location maps, prospectuses and other useful publications. Further information can be found on the following web pages: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/services.html – a full list of services provided by SSiD www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/atoz – a list of useful links for current students http://ask.sheffield.ac.uk/ – the University’s Frequently-Asked-Questions enquiry portal SSiD (and we pronounce it Sid – like the www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/media man’s name!) is a great place to get help SSiD media centre “ with all kinds of University business. SSiD is the first place to go for information and Gavish Munbauhal ” advice. B. DISABILITY & DYSLEXIA SUPPORT SERVICE A. STUDENT SERVICES INFORMATION 1. The University of Sheffield welcomes disabled students DESK (SSiD) and is committed to effectively meeting any additional academic support requirements they may have. Contact details: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/contacts 2. The Disability and Dyslexia Support Service (D&DSS) Email address: [email protected] is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the Website: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid support of students with disabilities and/or specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia and dyspraxia. Opening Times: 9.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday When necessary, the service liaises with academic all year round except Bank Holidays departments and other University support services The Front Face of Student Services (the University Counselling Service, for example) on The Student Services Information Desk (SSiD) is the behalf of individual students. one stop shop for student services. Located on level 3. If you have a disability it is important that you make 3 of the Students’ Union building, friendly staff are contact with both the D&DSS and your academic trained to answer all types of queries so please call in department in order to outline your support to the office with your questions. SSiD also provides requirements, so that any necessary planning can be useful administrative and information services undertaken and it can be ensured that you are given including: appropriate advice regarding the support, equipment • Address change instructions and facilities available to you here. • Bank letters 4. Funding (Disabled Students’ Allowances [DSA])is available for home undergraduate and postgraduate • Career development loans students whose course is equivalent to at least 50% of • Financial support application forms a full time course. DSA helps to pay for extra study- • Certificates of student status related costs that you may incur as a direct result of your disability. The allowance covers costs relating to • Directions educational support needs. Please contact Disability and Dyslexia Support Service for more information. 22 Help from Student Services Department Section 8

5. International students, (overseas and EU) are not eligible for DSAs. However, there is potentially a lot of support available through our service to ensure that you are not disadvantaged during your studies as a result of your disability. 6. See Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011–12 (taught students) or Code of Practice for Research Degree Programmes (research students and supervisors) for details. 7. Further information on the types of support available to disabled students is provided in the University publication Information for Disabled and Dyslexic Students. For an electronic version of the handbook see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/disability 8. If you have any further questions about academic disability support at the University please contact the D&DSS. I had a serious problem a couple of years Disability & Dyslexia Support Service, ago. I emailed [email protected] and “ someone got back to me the next day. Student Services Department, The Hillsborough Centre, Jessica Wan Alfred Denny Building, ” Western Bank, Sheffield about arrivals nor to contact new students except in S10 2TN, UK an emergency.) Telephone: +44 (0)114 222 1303 5. Feeling that you are not coping or worried about Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1373 another student E-mail: [email protected] please refer to the following webpages www.sheffield. ac.uk/ssid/welfare/signposts or email support@ C. FINANCIAL SUPPORT sheffield.ac.uk or visit Student Services Information Desk. 1. See Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011-12 (taught students) and Code of Practice for Research Degree Programmes (research students and E. EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY FOR supervisors) for details. STUDENTS 2. See pages 29 – 30. The University of Sheffield is committed to the elimination of unlawful discrimination and to the promotion of equality of opportunity, for students and prospective D. EMERGENCIES students, in all its functions: This section offers additional support to students who • Access and recruitment need it. • Admissions and retention 1. Serious illness or hospitalisation advice, support, visits on request. See Academic Diary and Student • Assessments and progression Handbook 2011-12 (taught students) and webpages: • provision of student services and related facilities http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/welfare/signposts/ • Teaching, learning, examining, curriculum development critical and quality assurance 2. Bereavement • Community links and partnerships The death of a close relative or friend can bring The aim of the policy is to ensure that all students and practical, academic and personal challenges. Talk to prospective students are treated equally, irrespective staff in Student Support & Guidance/SSiD telephone: of race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, gender, sexual +44 (0)114 222 4321 or email: [email protected], orientation, marital or parental status, age, disability, to seek appropriate support. Also see webpages: political or religious belief or socio-economic class or www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssd/ssg/critical spent convictions. 3. Harassment The University’s Equal Opportunities Policy relating to This section has responsibility for the University’s students is augmented by specific policies on personal Harassment Policy in relation to students. If you harassment, the support of students with disabilities. believe you or someone else is being harassed, please The Equal Opportunities Policy relating to students see Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011-12 reflects and complements the University’s Equal (taught students) or webpages: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ Opportunities Policy and Code of Practice for Staff. ssid/welfare/harassment The Equal Opportunities Policy operates within the 4. Emergencies Out of Hours context of relevant equalities legislation. If you need to contact Student Support and Guidance staff in an emergency outside office hours, tel: +44 (0)114 222 4085. (Please do not use this number to ask

22 23 Section 9 Academic services

9 Academic services

WHAT CAN GO WRONG IF YOU DO NOT READ THIS SECTION? • You won’t be able to access Internet before registration. • You will not know how to access our great services!

A. COMPUTING FACILITIES 1. INTERNET ACCESS a. All students have access to free, unlimited, high- speed Internet access, both on campus and in University-owned accommodation. Internet access is also available in private and managed- partnership accommodation but there is a charge. In University accommodation there is a mix of I’d always thought that my fees were for wireless and plug-in Internet. On campus in tuition only but we get access to loads of computer rooms, lecture theatres, cafés and other “ services for our money – English classes, public spaces you can connect to secure wireless counselling, advice, support, Careers Service, Internet. For a list of wireless locations see: library, computer services – so much! www.sheffield.ac.uk/cics/wireless Gomolemo Lebanna b. Social websites including Facebook and Twitter are ” not blocked, however, peer-to-peer file sharing is disabled; any student discovered illegally sharing copyright material may be suspended from 4. LEARNING SPACES Internet access. See section C below. a. The Information Commons is open 24/7 and offers 2. COMPUTERS five floors of desktop computers for students a. You can use your own computer in your to use. It also houses the pick-up and drop-off accommodation and on campus. point for the laptop loan service. (More details in section B.) b. The University provides desktop and laptop computers for students to use in student b. The Information Commons offers library books, computer rooms located in every department or photocopying, laser printing and scanners. Staff are via short-term loan to students. For laptop loans on hand to offer assistance. (via the myPC booking facility in MUSE, described c. There are 35 additional unstaffed computer rooms below. around the campus see www.sheffield.ac.uk/cics/ c. The majority of University services are web-based computers. See the CiCS website for list of all and will work on Windows PCs, Macintosh, and rooms available and those with free computers, Linux computers and in addition to desktop and 5. MUSE: ACCESS TO ONLINE UNIVERSITY SERVICES laptop computers, University services work well on most tablet devices too. a MUSE gives secure access to your email, your online courseware, your library resources, your 3. MOBILE PHONES AND DEVICES student record, your timetables and electronic a. Modern smartphones including iPhones, BlackBerry journals. You can use the tools within MUSE to devices, Android, Windows and Nokia Symbian arrange the loan of a laptop, book a group study devices can connect to the University wireless room, reserve a library book, download lecture network and the Internet. Additional devices such notes and manage your printing account. as iPads, Android tablets and the iPod Touch can b. MUSE provides access to these services and online also connect to wireless, but the Amazon Kindle resources from home or from any computer with cannot at this stage. Instructions for connecting Internet access. See www.sheffield.ac.uk/cics/ devices are available on our website and our staff muse can help you to connect and access your University email and calendar c. Your email and calendar are available via MUSE as www.sheffield.ac.uk/cics/smartphones. are additional Google Apps including Docs, Blogger and Picasa. See b. The University also has its own free mobile app, www.sheffield.ac.uk/cics/googleapps which offers campus maps, show locations of available computers, and gives you access to your course information and library reading lists. For more information and download instructions see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/cics/mobileapp

24 Academic services Section 9

d. MUSE also provides access to uSpace, the B. INFORMATION COMMONS University’s secure social web and collaboration The Information Commons is a state-of-the-art learning environment. uSpace offers a collection of social environment, which provides a unique mix of library and web tools for communication and collaboration computing services, library material, learning and teaching amongst students and staff, with a flexible resources and flexible study spaces. collaboration environment for research, breaking geographical barriers in learning, and improving 1. Open 24/7 communication within departments. For a. Support staff available until late evening every information on uSpace, see www.sheffield.ac.uk/ weekday (during the afternoon at weekends) cics/uspace b. You must use your Ucard at the main doors and 6. PRINTING electronic turnstiles. a. There is a comprehensive student printing service. 2. Range of facilities High quality, colour and monochrome laser a. Over 500 PCs (some of which can be booked in printers, printing to A3 or A4 paper are distributed advance) in rooms around campus. b. 100,000 books b. You can print from any computer in any room and later pick up the printout from any compatible c. more than 1300 study spaces configured to suit a printer anywhere around the University. variety of different learning styles. c. You pay for printing using credit on your UCard; d. Soft-seating areas where students can work For instructions see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/cics/ informally or relax printing e. Power points around the building where students can charge laptop batteries while accessing the 7. GETTING HELP wireless network a. First you must register for a computer account. f. 70 seat Internet café which is open 24/7 and You will receive a username, a password and a staffed 7 days a week. University email address, and you will be given Information about getting started and connecting your own computer to the Internet. C. UNAUTHORISED COPYING AND b. You will be sent instructions on this via the EAP DISTRIBUTION OF COPYRIGHT MATERIAL (see page 7) or at registration with the University. The use of University facilities in breach of copyright c. You can also get help: law is against University Regulations and English Law. This refers to all forms of copyright material and includes i. from any staff member in the Information music, videos, and computer programs. Commons. 1. Any computer appearing to be used to illegally copy ii. Unstaffed rooms contain phones that let you or distribute copyright material will be blocked from contact the CiCS helpdesk for free on 21111. using the network and will only be unblocked once all iii. by telephoning the helpdesk on 0114 222 1111 unauthorized copyright material has been removed. iv. from the helpdesk service in the Computing 2. Any incident that is a repeated offence, or where Centre on Hounsfield Road. circumstances warrant, may result in formal action v. using the CiCS knowledgebase in the, “CiCS being sought under the University’s Discipline Helpdesk Self Service” channel in MUSE. Regulations. 3. The University firewall prevents the use of many 8. REGULATIONS & IT CODE OF PRACTICE applications used in the sharing of music and video Your Computer account is provided to enable you files, so if you have existing file sharing programs, they to fulfil the requirements of your course or research may not work. and to meet your other needs as far as is possible. It The University’s policy regarding the unauthorised is your responsibility to be familiar with the Code of copying and distribution of copyright material and Practice for the Use of University Computing Facilities information about the enforcement of this policy and the Regulations on the Use of Computing Facilities. is available at www.sheffield.ac.uk/cics/policies/ Both are available on the web at www.sheffield.ac.uk/ copyright cics/codeofpractice

24 25 Section 9 Academic services

D. SOCIAL NETWORKING – YOUR SAFETY Facebook, MySpace etc. 1. These networks are very popular with students and can be accessed from the University. They are visible to anyone outside or inside the University. 2. PLEASE TAKE CARE ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION. 3. Do not display: a. Your address at home or in Sheffield. b. Your telephone numbers. c. Where you will be at specific times. There have been cases of strangers or very unwelcome relatives, ex-boyfriends etc. using these networks to physically find a student at specific times. Some people say they are too busy with their 4. Employers are increasingly checking prospective studies to improve their English. What they employees’ on-line postings. Will what you post give a “ don’t realise is that if their English good impression? improves, they won’t need to spend so long on their work! E. UNIVERSITY LIBRARY Hang Li ” 1. During Intro Week there are induction sessions for new students in the Information Commons. The dates and times of these are widely publicised, and F. ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING CENTRE there’s no need to book - just turn up. In addition, English Language Teaching Centre some departments arrange introductory Library Location: 78 Hoyle Street, Sheffield, S3 7LG sessions for new students, helping you to get the most out of Library resources. Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1780 2. An online information skills tutorial helps you to Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1788 use the Library catalogue; to search effectively using Email: [email protected] search engines and databases; to reference correctly and avoid plagiarism in your assignments. Web pages: www.sheffield.ac.uk/eltc 3. You may need to use more than one site of the 1. The English Language Teaching Centre is one of the Library to find the material you need. Most sites central support services of the University. are geared towards specific subjects, although the 2. The Centre’s staff have experience of teaching: Information Commons contains the main collection of a. International students in a wide range of locations textbooks to support taught courses for all subjects. and situations, both in the UK and overseas. 4. Your UCard, issued at registration, is also your b. Home students who wish to improve their Library card. You must have it with you whenever academic writing. you visit the Library. They are therefore well prepared to give you all the 5. For full details of all Library services, see help you may need to improve your English before a. www.sheffield.ac.uk/library or and during your studies. b. pick up a guide at any Library site. 3. Facilities at the Centre include modern classrooms c. Further information is in the Academic Diary and and well-equipped computer suites, as well as Student Handbook 2011–12 (taught students) or advanced audio-visual equipment and learning Code of Practice for Research Degree Programmes resources. (research students and supervisors). 4. Students registered at the University can use the 6. You may want to follow the Library on Twitter @ Centre’s support services free of charge. UniSheffieldLib to help you keep up-to-date with 5. There are courses of English before you join a news. University department: a. The International Summer School Programme (May – September). b. The University English Course (September–June). c. The Management English Course (year-round). A fee is payable for these three courses. Further information can be found on our webpages: www.sheffield.ac.uk/eltc/courses

26 Academic services Section 9

6. International students studying at the University 10. Council Tax are welcome to make maximum use of the free At the time of writing, international students services and facilities offered by the Centre. These registered at the International Summer School, one include: semester or other short courses and living in privately- a. English Language support classes: owned accommodation may not be exempt from A range of part-time courses for all students who Council Tax. Please see Academic Diary and Student wish to focus on certain language skills is offered. Handbook 2011–12 (taught students). These courses take place in the evenings, and on Wednesday afternoons. Registration is online. G. MODERN LANGUAGES TEACHING CENTRE (Some courses are ‘General’ e.g. Grammar, while 1. Would you like to learn a language as part of your others are ‘Faculty specific’, e.g. Academic Speaking degree course? for Science & Technology. The actual range of courses offered may change.) a. Modules in French, German, Greek , Italian, Spanish and Arabic (plus Beginner’s Latin) For further information see www.sheffield.ac.uk/els b. Courses range from beginner to near-native levels b. Writing Advisory Service c. Communicative language classes, project and tandem modules • Individual help sessions for students who feel that they need help with the writing of d. All modules are worth 10 credits. We recommend assignments, reports, dissertations or theses that you take at least one module per semester • five days a week during semesters and e. Many students can take language courses vacations throughout their degree and graduate with a very high level • free to all students f. If you can speak more than one language you have • advance booking is necessary. better job prospects, learn very important skills, For further information see develop your cultural agility and can work abroad www.sheffield.ac.uk/writingadvisory as well as in the UK AND it’s fun! c. Part-time classes within departments: You can sign up for our courses at registration The English Language Teaching Centre offers in Intro Week. English courses in collaboration with many For more information please email: mltc@ departments of the University aimed at students sheffield.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)114 222 0630 studying specific subjects. MLT Centre, Portobello Centre, Pitt Street, These classes are held in the departments University of Sheffield concerned and are timetabled to fit in with the students’ other courses. H. THE ACADEMIC SKILLS HUB (TASH) For further information see www.sheffield.ac.uk/ See section 1. deptclasses 7. Credit-bearing modules – the centre offers a range of modules and programmes that give credits for I. PLACES TO STUDY some international and home students. For more 1. The Information Commons information and to find out if you can sign-up, see 2. Libraries www.sheffield.ac.uk/eltc/credit 3. Computer Rooms (see A above page 24) 8. Teacher Training and Development – the centre delivers various courses for Teaching English 4. Students’ Union Gallery & Activity and Sports as Foreign Language (TEFL) from TEFL Tasters Zone to the Cambridge CELTA/DELTA and bespoke programmes for overseas English teachers To find out more and the entrance requirements see www.sheffield.ac.uk/tesol 9. How to Register Further information on all the above courses may be obtained from: The Secretary, The English Language Teaching Centre, The University of Sheffield, 78 Hoyle Street, Sheffield S3 7LG. Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1780 or from our website www.sheffield.ac.uk/eltc

26 27 Section 10 Other University services

10 Other University services

All of the following are detailed in the Academic Diary 3. Information about events of particular relevance & Student Handbook 2011-12 (taught students) and Code to mature students will be sent out via the mature of Practice for Research Degree Programmes (research students email group, and the mature student students and supervisors). newsletter. 4. The Essential Guide for Mature Students is sent A. CAREERS SERVICE pre-arrival to all home mature students and is available from SSiD. 1. The Careers Service provides many opportunities for you to develop the skills, knowledge and awareness 5. There are mature student events throughout Intro that you will need. You can choose to take advantage Week, highlighted in the Intro Week Guide. Events of a range of opportunities. throughout the year will be advertised via the mature student email group, the mature student newsletter 2. Web pages www.sheffield.ac.uk/careers/ or and the online community. www.sheffield.ac.uk/careers/studentjobs 6. Welcome Events B. COUNSELLING SERVICE Welcome Evening for Mature Students: Tuesday 6th September and Welcome Day for Mature 1. All students are eligible to use the University Students Friday 9th September – this is a chance for Counselling Service and Skills for Life programme that new students to meet current mature students and to they offer. If you know you are bringing problems or find out a bit more about the University, a buffet and challenges with you or if they arise during your time at refreshments are included at both events. University, see: Mature Student Support Contact: a. Web pages: www.sheffield.ac.uk/counselling and www.sheffield.ac.uk/counselling/services/ Kathryn Axon, Student Support & Guidance, Student skillsforlife Services Department b. Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011- Email: [email protected], Tel: 0114 222 1378 12 (taught students) and Code of Practice for Research Degree Programmes (research students F. LOCAL “Commuter” STUDENTS and supervisors). 1. “Local students” are students who are living in the family home and commuting to university. Though C. ACCOMMODATION AND CAMPUS SERVICES mature students may be also living locally, local 1. Before arrival see Home from Home and pages 8 – 9. student events are aimed at those who are under 21 on entry to their undergraduate degree. 2. Contact details: see page 44. 2. There are events for local students during Intro Week 3. www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation and Discovery Week (see below). Intro Week events will be highlighted in the Intro Week Guide. D. STUDY ABROAD OPPORTUNITIES 3. Information about Discovery Week (12-16 International study opportunities outside UK will be September 2011) will be sent to local students. introduced at the “International Experiences Abroad” Local Student Support Contact: session, 21 September 2011 – see page 13 and web page: www.sheffield.ac.uk/newstudents/introweek/home Susan Sisson, Student Support & Guidance, Student Services Department E. MATURE STUDENTS Email: [email protected], Tel: 0114 222 1262 1. “Mature students” are undergraduates who are 21 and older on entry to an undergraduate degree. 2. There is an online community for mature students, instructions on how to join will be sent out via the mature student email group.

28 Money matters Section 11

11 Money matters

A. FEES – see Registration: The Essential Guide 2011-12 b. Tips for saving money • Information on deals and money saving B. MANAGING YOUR MONEY tips can be found at websites like www.studentmoneysaver.com 1. Money Planner www.moneysavingexpert.com The University’s on-line money tools will help you www.studentbeans.com manage your money and give you a guide to the costs www.push.co.uk and for international students you will face when you come to University. It also helps www.studentcalculator.org.uk/international/ with information on money matters and tips on how • Many students are eligible for help with health best to make your money last. costs e.g. prescriptions, sight tests etc. www.sheffield.ac.uk/moneytools Form HC1 to apply for help available from the When drawing up your budget, the following should be Student Advice Centre. included where applicable. • Many shops and services offer a student a. Income discount. If they don’t advertise ask • Maintenance loan (home students) anyway. • • Maintenance grant (home students) You don’t have to buy all your text books brand new. Second hand copies are often • University bursaries available from book fairs in the Union or Charity • Money from parents/guardians/relatives shops (e.g. Oxfam in Broomhill or on West Street or Age Concern in Broomhill). • Income from part-time work • You can buy student tickets for public • Welfare Benefits/Tax Credits transport in Sheffield. There is also a young • Special Support Grant person’s railcard that many students will be • Sponsorship/scholarship eligible for. This can save you money. b. Expenses • You need to go out and enjoy yourself as well as studying. Make allowances in your • Tuition Fees budget for this to avoid overspending. Leave • Rent/Mortgage your bank card at home and stick to a cash budget when you go out. • Utility Bills (electricity, gas, etc.) • Full-time students (except for those on short • Food courses) do not have to pay council tax. SSiD • Insurance can provide you with an exemption certificate • Travel (public transport, car costs, etc.) (not required for University accommodation). • Toiletries C. FINANCIAL SUPPORT AT THE UNIVERSITY • Telephone(s) – line rental, call charges FOR UK UNDERGRADUATES • Clothing 1. To be eligible for University financial support, • Study expenses (books, photocopying, such as bursaries, alumni scholarships and access printing etc.) to learning funds you must have been assessed by • Laundry Student Finance England or other relevant government agency for the national statutory support of student • Prescriptions loan (fees and maintenance) and grants. • Entertainment a. Once you have confirmation of University • Emergencies financial support, you must register your bank 2. Further Guidance details so we can pay your award to you. Once registered on your course you will be able to log To make the most of your time at university it is into MUSE (the University on line portal), go to the important to manage your money carefully. “my quick links” section and choose “University a. The Student Advice Centre produces Money Payments Bank Details” and securely enter your Handbooks to plan outgoings of students. All bank details. You can also do this through EAP. information is also on the Student Advice Centre b. The Student Loans Company tells you that they website at http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/union/ will pay your loan into your bank account on student-advice-centre/money/ the first day of Intro week. • This is not the case • You will not get your loan until a few days after you register with the University.

28 29 Section 11 Money mattersa

• You cannot register before the date given in a. The majority of full-time students cannot claim Registration: The Essential Guide 2011-12. welfare benefits. However some UK students can • If you are relying on your loan to pay University claim certain welfare benefits – this includes part- rent, see page 9. time students, single parents, student couples with children and students with a disability or long-term 2. Bursaries for home undergraduates health problem. a. “Bursary” is another word for scholarship or b. UK students with dependent children can grant. usually claim child tax credit and child benefit. b. Home undergraduates may be eligible to Some students may also be able to claim working bursaries of up to £1400. tax credit. c. We contact all potentially eligible students c. International students cannot claim any of these about the scheme by the end of August. benefits. d. Students awarded a bursary will be notified of For more information go to http://www.sheffield. their bursary by the end of October 2011. ac.uk/union/student-advice-centre/money/ e. You do not have to apply for a bursary 2. Claiming benefits before term starts separately. However, to be considered you must a. Many home students (in addition to the have first applied to Student Finance England (or above groups) are entitled to claim Job Seekers other relevant government agency) for loans and Allowance before their course starts. This includes: grants using a PN1 application form or by applying on-line. • Most school/6th Form college leavers - eligible to claim benefits 6th September 2011. f. You must be eligible for at least part of the loans and grant support to be eligible for a University • People who have left jobs and are waiting to Bursary. (Students undertaking second degrees start university. may not be eligible for loans, grants or bursaries.) • Students who are between courses, g. Students on fully NHS funded (i.e. there are no e.g. in the summer between finishing an tuition fees to be paid) will not be eligible for a undergraduate degree and progressing University bursary. to postgraduate study. Also students who withdraw from one course and begin a new 3. Financial Support Fund/Access to Learning Fund course at a later date. a. The Government provides funds to support UK b. If you are entitled to benefit, you can claim until students who experience exceptional financial your full-time university programme begins; for difficulties, or legitimate, higher than average most students this will be 27th September 2011. financial demands. Intro Week is not part of the academic year so you b. UK Students in hardship can apply for additional may be entitled to claim benefit for this period if financial support. SeeAcademic Diary and Student you can demonstrate that you are available for and Handbook 2011–12 (taught students). actively seeking work. c. Students in rented accommodation, (including D. FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL University-owned) could also be eligible to claim STUDENTS Housing Benefit until the start of the term. A limited fund is available for international students For further information see http://www.sheffield. who find themselves in hardship. However students are ac.uk/union/student-advice-centre/money// expected to have adequate funds before they arrive in funding/benefits.htm Sheffield. G. INSURANCE E. SHORT-TERM LOANS 1. It is vital that you take out insurance. These are available when funding is delayed or a. All University accommodation includes contents emergencies arise. insurance provided by Endsleigh Insurance as FURTHER INFORMATION part of the residence contract. If you visit the Endsleigh’s web pages you can enter details of your a. www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/finance accommodation and check the cover at b. Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011–12 www.endsleigh.co.uk/reviewcover (taught students) b. If you are living in private accommodation you c. Go to the SSiD office in the Students’ Union should check if any cover is included in the rent. If it is not then you should arrange this through an F. ENTITLEMENT TO WELFARE BENEFITS AND insurance provider. TAX CREDITS – UK STUDENTS ONLY 2. Thefts and break-ins do occur in Sheffield, as in any large city. 1. Claiming benefits and tax credits during your course a. If your laptop is stolen, compensation will not be available; insurance would cover this. b. If your room is burgled, insurance would cover this. The landlord (private or University) will not compensate you. 30 The Students’ Union Section 12

12 The Students’ Union

President: Thom Arnold Location: Western Bank (No 120 on location map) Tel: +44 (0)114 222 8500 Fax: +44 (0)114 275 2506 Email: [email protected] Web: www.sheffield.ac.uk/union

INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDENTS’ UNION The Students’ Union is a membership organisation that represents the views of Sheffield students to the University and nationally. Its building is central to life on campus. It is THE place for socialising and activities in the University and the city. It enjoys a national reputation for some of the best services and activities available at any University. The Union is the best! I’ve gained so much “ by getting involved in committees and organising events. Looks great on A. YOUR MEMBERSHIP my CV too! 1. University of Sheffield students areautomatically Barbora Novakova members of the University of Sheffield Students’ ” Union. 2. The Students’ Union is run by students for students and is independent from the University, C. HELP & ASSISTANCE although the two organisations work closely together. 1. Student Advice Centre 3. The University of Sheffield UCard is also your membership card for the Students’ Union. a. Location: Ground Floor, Students’ Union Building, 4. The National Students’ Union (NUS) b. The Student Advice Centre is a free and confidential service that is independent of the a. Currently recognises the University of Sheffield University. Highly trained staff advisers offer help Students’ Union UCard as membership/ID of NUS. on problems such as managing money, housing, b. The NUS has introduced “NUS Extra”, an additional academic, employment, immigration and welfare discount card available at £11 per card. For full matters. details of how to get this card see website c. For further information see www.sheffieldstudentsunion.com www.sheffieldstudentsunion.com/student- 5. The Students’ Union also provides free access advice-centre/ Academic Diary and Student to the internet with free wifi and computers Handbook 2011-12 (taught students) and Code throughout the building of Practice for Research Degree Programmes (research students and supervisors). B. GETTING INVOLVED 2. Student parents 1. There is strong student participation in the The Students’ Union has highly rated nursery Students’ Union’s clubs and societies. These are facilities and a play scheme during school holidays. co-ordinated through The Activity and Sports Zone, See Information for Families booklet available from which also runs the Give It A Go Scheme. Accommodation and Campus Services. 2. “Give It A Go” allows you to give activities a go without high price tags or major commitment. You can D. ENTERTAINMENT & SOCIALISING try everything from Sign Language to Bollywood dance, The Students’ Union offers a packed programme of jewellery making to skiing, aromatherapy to Thai club events, cinema and live music. The Union has been Boxing. recognised on numerous occasions as the best in the 3. The Activity and Sports Zone also provides an country. equipment hire service for items such as digital To find out more cameras. a. visit the Students’ Union building, collect an intro 4. The Activity and Sports Zone has extensive pack and explore for yourself. information about Sheffield and its surrounding areas. If you want to find out anything at all about b. log on to www.sheffield.ac.uk/union sports or activities or Sheffield then visit the Zone Desk Mon – Fri 10am – 6pm.

30 31 Section 13 Cars, parking and transport

13 Cars, parking and transport

C. PUBLIC TRANSPORT 1. Local Most of you will use public transport. The City of Sheffield and surrounding district are well served by an extensive network of bus services and the Supertram. All purpose-built accommodation is either on a main bus route or within walking/cycling distance, as are most University-owned and privately-owned ‘approved’ houses. a. Bus i. Timetables are available from • The Activity and Sports Zone in the Students’ Union • www.travelsouthyorkshire.com/ timetables/sheffield/ Get a timetable for bus services you will ii. Buses stop at fixed points. Bus stops “ use regularly. And international students, normally indicate which number buses stop remember: in the UK, buses are not always there. You must signal for the bus to stop by punctual! holding out your hand. JianKai Yang iii. Pay the driver as you enter the bus; drivers ” can refuse passengers who offer notes, so always have some change/coins available. Return or weekly tickets can save money. A. CARS iv. Collect your ticket from the machine. 1. Most students do not need to bring a car to v. A reasonable distance before your stop, ring Sheffield/drive to and from University. the bell to indicate that you wish to get off. 2. The University operates a ‘green’ transport policy vi. Most bus stops have names on them BUT which promotes use of public transport and healthy most people in Sheffield will refer to the bus options such as cycling and walking and discourages stop by what building, pub or road is nearby. avoidable car use, especially for commuting. There is no map with bus stop names on. 3. Car parking on the central campus is by permit only; b. Tram availability is severely limited. Permits are issued on the basis of a needs-based criteria assessment. i. Sheffield has a tram system which passes the University. Tickets (£2.10 to Meadowhall 4. Limited parking may be available at some residences or £3.70 for a return Dayrider ticket) can be (see Home from Home booklet) but is usually street bought on the tram. For University of Sheffield only for houses. students - Unirider is a heavily discounted, 5. There are residents’ parking schemes in a term travel ticket that gives unlimited travel on number of local residential districts. Permits are very an Stagecoach tram or bus in Sheffield. The restricted. ticket is only available for sale on-line - 6. See www.sheffield.ac.uk/cics/roomandparking http://www.supertram.com/unirider.html ii. Trams stop at tram stops if passengers are B. CYCLES waiting there. To get off the tram, ring the bell some distance before your stop (indicated 1. Most purpose-built University accommodation has on the electronic notice board on the tram). secure cycle stores. Website: www.supertram.com 2. Free cycle parking facilities are available close to all c. Taxis major academic buildings. i. There are taxi ranks at: 3. Several cycle routes serve the central campus and main residential areas, and are being extended with • the Railway Station (until midnight only) the help of government grants. • Barkers Pool in the City Centre • Ecclesall Road (between Hunter’s Bar and the City) • at night, at the entrance to the Students’ Union “Bar One” and Western Bank in front of the Octagon Centre. • Endcliffe village

32 Cars, parking and transport Section 13

ii. A taxi from the Railway Station to the University E. NATIONAL TRAVEL will cost around £6.00. Taxis are generally more There are two ways of travelling nationally: by coach or expensive after 10.00pm or if you are travelling rail. outside the city boundaries. 1. Coach iii. You can sometimes wait an hour or more for taxis at busy times (especially late at night). A a. Travel by coach is probably the cheaper form wait of 10–15 minutes is more common. Other of national transport. A National Coach Service taxis – ‘mini cabs’ – break the law if they pick up operates from the Transport Interchange, Pond passengers not made by a telephone booking. Street to all the major cities in the UK. There is an enquiry and booking office there. iv. Traditional taxi cabs (usually black but sometimes other colours) have meters and are b. Website www.nationalexpress.com allowed to stop and pick up passengers in the 2. Rail street. If a taxi cab is showing its orange illuminated ‘For Hire’ sign, you may hail it by holding out your a. STA Travel can provide a Young Persons Railcard arm or waving. or ISIC Student Travel Card for discounted travel on British Rail but do not sell train tickets. v. Do not accept lifts from cars whose drivers say they are taxis or mini cab drivers unless you have b. Train services run from Sheffield Midland Station telephoned for a taxi to come. You should check to all the major towns and cities in the UK. that the taxi comes from the company you called. c. There are a number of other ‘saver’ tickets. In all Most companies have a sign on the car to indicate cases, where you are travelling on a student fare, this. ensure that you keep your Student Card with you vi. All licensed taxis have a small licence number and always check (before you board the train) plate (black figures on a white background) on where cheaper fares are involved, since there are the back of the car. If you are in any doubt as to many restrictions on the times or trains on which whether or not a taxi is genuine, ask to see the you can travel. driver’s identification (which should include a d. For fares and timetables see www.thetrainline. photograph) or ask him to radio the taxi office so com/buytickets/ that you can hear his controller. 3. Flights are available for internal travel within the UK from the major airports. D. CARS AND DRIVING LICENCES In Sheffield most students do not own or run a car, but F. SAFETY ON THE ROADS live within a twenty-minute walk of the campus or use the very frequent and reliable bus and tram services. If you 1. Pedestrians do not have right of way to cross roads intend to buy or hire a car, you must go to except at pedestrian crossings. Do not step out in front of cars on roads, drive-ways etc. www.sheffield.ac.uk/newstudents/welcome/transport/ licence See A page 32 for information on parking. 2. Traffic drives on the left. You may not get used to this quickly so take extra care when walking or driving. 3. Think carefully before driving on the left. Your reactions may not be appropriate if you are used to driving on right and your driving could be dangerous.

G. SAFETY Do not walk home alone very late at night. See page 34.

H. WOMEN’S SAFETY BUS See page 35 and Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011-12. Women students can get home late at night for £1.50 from the University.

32 33 Section 14 Safety

14 Safety

A. SAFETY OUT AND ABOUT Sheffield is certainly NOT one of this country’s, nor the world’s, most dangerous cities. However, like almost any big city anywhere in the world, there are some problems relating to personal safety on the streets at night and with opportunist thefts. So, like anywhere else, it is sensible to take precautions and to avoid the type of situations in which crimes might occur. 1. ALWAYS INSURE YOUR PROPERTY! 2. The media, specific groups and individuals publicise any attacks (particularly on women) to alert others of perceived or possible dangers. You should remember that such occurrences are comparatively rare. It is not necessary to confine yourself to your home in the evenings, provided you are sensible. You may like to take the following points into consideration. It is really worth insuring your 3. STAY WITH OTHER PEOPLE as far as possible late at “ possessions. Sheffield is pretty safe but night (after about 10pm). there are some who will steal things if they can. 4. DO NOT accept lifts from strangers; hitch-hiking is considered to be dangerous, particularly for women. Deepika ”Raman 5. DO NOT USE subways at night; a longer detour may be safer. 6. STAY ALERT when walking alone at night. For 15. DO stay sober and in control if out late at night. instance, iPoDS or personal stereos can prevent you 16. DO stay in residential or busy areas where possible. from hearing if anyone is approaching you. For example, some areas in and around the University 7. KEEP expensive mobile telephones out of sight on the may be busy and safe during the day BUT are best street. These can be stolen. avoided at night. Walk a longer way round, get a taxi or 8. IPoDS can be tempting to the few bad people around. ask friends to escort you. Don’t use in the street. 17. AVOID unlit areas, waste ground, alley ways and short 9. KEEP LAP-TOP computers hidden or discrete. Don’t cuts. advertise them by carrying in a lap-top case. 18. IT IS VERY UNLIKELY THAT YOU’LL EVER FEEL 10. IT’S WISE, NOT RUDE, TO AVOID conversation or THREATENED BUT IF YOU DO, shout and scream or eye contact with anyone behaving in an anti-social use an attack alarm. This will often deter an attacker. manner. (See C2 below.) 11. DO NOT trust strangers who offer to help you in 19. DO go to the Porters’ Lodge, at or Mappin financial matters, sell you a cheap computer etc. Street if you find yourself alone in the University area Students have lost hundreds or even thousands of and feeling vulnerable. pounds through such scams. 20. DO use the Women’s Night Safety Bus (women only). 12. DO if possible make sure that your friends know 21. TRAVEL by public transport or taxi. Always check it is where you are if you intend to be out. a legitimate taxi by checking the taxi plate on the rear 13. DO find out where shops, petrol stations, etc are open or the driver’s ID-card. (See previous section). very late at night. Remember this information and go there if in need of help. 14. DO try to keep to areas/streets that are well lit; walk briskly near the edge of the pavement, towards oncoming traffic if possible. You are less likely to be attacked if you are visible to others and appear confident.

34 Religious matters Section 15

B. SAFETY AT HOME Thieves sometimes target student properties because they know students might not be as careful as some older people. 1. DO keep ground floor windows and doors securely locked whenever you leave the room. Wallets, laptops, handbags etc. can be stolen by sneak thieves. 2. DO close curtains in the evening and at night so that passers-by cannot see you. 3. DO be careful when answering the door. Don’t allow anyone in unless you are sure who they are. It is a good idea to fit a chain to your front door or to call out to ask who is there. Ask to see identification. 4. DO NOT leave valuables in downstairs rooms.

C. WOMEN’S SAFETY Sheffield is one of the safest cities in the UK Women’s safety needs are different to men’s although “ but it’s not crime-free, of course. What large men can also be vulnerable. The Students’ Union city is? Some students act as if the whole city is an extension of the campus and make therefore has developed a variety of support services themselves vulnerable by walking alone late for women students. at night. They act like they’re on holiday not 1. The Women’s Night Safety Bus living in a real, large city! See Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011-12 Xiangwei Li (taught students) for details. ” 2. Alarms a. Available from the Women’s Officer or the Student D. SECURITY SERVICES Advice Centre, Students Union. 1. Security Services b. See Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011-12. a. See Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011-12. 3. Safety Information b. See website www.sheffield.ac.uk/security/ For important hints on safety please see the Students’ Union web pages www.sheffield.ac.uk/union/advice/ 2. Local Policing Team safety-and-security/ a. The police have a team of officers based at within the Endcliffe Student Village b. The local police team serve the whole local community, including the student population. c. See Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011-12.

15 Religious matters

A. CHAPLAINS AND FAITH REPRESENTATIVES C. RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS/OBSERVANCE Full details of chaplains and faith contacts are available DURING INTRO WEEK AND EARLY DAYS in the Academic Diary and Student Handbook 2011- 1. Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur (Jewish) 12 or on the web pages: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssd/ a. fall on 29 chaplains. Contact Debora Green, Student Support The holiest days of the Jewish year and 30 September 2011 (Rosh HaShanah) and 7/8 and Guidance (email [email protected]) October 2011 (Yom Kippur). b. You must ask your department in advance for leave B. FOOD SHOPPING for these dates. Halal, kosher and international food providers c. For information about services and hospitality can be found on the web at www.sheffield.ac.uk/ contact Debora Green newstudents/welcome/shopping/diet email: [email protected] 2. Muslim and Jewish students who cannot attend classes/exams on specific days or times. See www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssd/chaplains/activities/ absence 34 35 Section 16 Sport and extra-curricular activities

16 Sport and extra-curricular activities

A. SPORT AND FITNESS Please see the Appendix for our S10health Early Application Membership Offers available for a Contacts limited period only. A reply slip is included. Telephone: Fitness: +44 (0) 114 2226969, Sport: +44 (0) 114 2226999 B. SHEFFIELD GRADUATE AWARD Email: Fitness: 1. The Sheffield Graduate Award is an additional membership.enquiriess10health.co.uk award you can earn during your time at University. Sport: [email protected] The Award recognises and rewards valuable skills and Fax: +44 (0)114 222 6998 experience gained outside your degree course. A university certificate is provided to students who Web site: www.usport.co.uk gain the Award upon graduation. This provides View our online video tours to get a feel for the University of Sheffield certification of all the excellent facilities available. extra-curricular activities and achievements you have gained in addition to your academic achievements. Facilities include: The Award means that employers will be able to see 1. S10health fitness centre that you stand out from the crowd because you have 150 pieces of equipment spread over two air actively contributed more and acquired real examples conditioned floors. Friendly, qualified staff to help you and evidence of your skills which can put you ahead of get the most from your fitness programme. many other graduates. 2. Swimming pool, poolside sauna and steam rooms 2. Eligible activities for the Award are grouped into the sections below: A 33m, 6-lane indoor, heated pool plus poolside sauna and steam rooms. • Enterprise 3. Fitness class studio • Student jobs and work experience Up to 40 classes a week, from yoga and pilates, to • Volunteering circuits and boxfit. • Cultural and social awareness 4. Bouldering wall • Extending international horizons The Matrix, one of the largest fibreglass-moulded • Activities supporting the university bouldering walls in the country. 3. To find out more about this opportunity 5. Group training room please see webpage: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ particularly suited to sports teams. thesheffieldgraduateaward/index.html or ask at the Careers Service. 6. Indoor and racquet sports A multi-purpose sports hall for badminton, basketball, volleyball and netball plus four squash courts and C. SKILLS FOR WORK CERTIFICATE provision for tennis. The “Skills for Work Certificate” is designed to help you use your work experience (part-time jobs, 7. Synthetic pitches and playing fields vacation work, voluntary work etc) to demonstrate to One 11-a-side and three 5-a-side new generation future employers that you have the necessary skills synthetic pitches, plus two premier-standard synthetic that they are looking for in their workplace. It will also pitches and 45 acres of high-quality grass playing help you to learn more about yourself and your career fields. options. 8. Participation for all Successful participants will be awarded a University of We cater for all levels of sporting interest. Sheffield Careers Service Certificate, endorsed by a range of graduate employers. You can become a member of a gym, play sport casually with friends, enter a team into the popular Attainment of the certificate also counts towards the Intra Mural leagues, or represent the University at your Sheffield Graduate Award. chosen sport. See www.sheffield.ac.uk/careers/students/advice/ We also run a Sport Bursary Scheme to support elite sfwc sports men and women, competing at national and international levels. www.sheffield.ac.uk/usport/ D. MORE about/bursaries.html University education is about More than just attending All sports facilities (except the S10health fitness lectures. centre) can be used on a pay as you play basis. Employers want More than just a piece of paper. There are a range of membership options for Sheffield is than the campus S10health, covering use of the fitness centre, pool, More sauna and steam rooms.

36 Sport and extra-curricular activities Section 16

There is so much you can do to make the most of your time in Sheffield. From your very first day on campus there will be something for you. Through our ‘More …’ web pages you will find out about all the opportunities open to you whether it’s for an hour, a day, a week or longer. If you are into sport or outdoor pursuits, drama, music, IT or technology, the arts, conservation or the environment, helping others, looking for part- time jobs, vacation work, being creative or just not quite sure what you want yet, you’ll find something that you’ll enjoy using More . Here is a just a sample of what’s on offer. Visit www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/more for more details.

1. More … student jobs and work experience The Student Jobshop, run by the Careers Service, is located in the Students’ Union in the centre of the campus. You can use it to find part-time paid Staff in the Activities and Sports Zone are jobs during the academic year, vacation work, so helpful and knowledgeable. They can summer internships, voluntary work and year-out “ help you plan a cheap day out even if you placements (if immigration status allows), and get don’t have a car. advice on ways to develop your skills. Disha Choure 2. More … sport ” We cater for all levels of interest in sports and fitness. Become a member of a gym, play sport with friends, enter a team into the popular Intra Mural 6. More … to use your creative skills and your leagues or represent the University at your chosen interest in the arts sport. Perhaps swim casually, take up indoor So many opportunities are on offer to get involved climbing, or join in the fitness classes on offer, from in activities where your creativity can be used to circuits to yoga. its full potential. Our Drama Studio, orchestras 3. More … in your academic department and choirs are just a few to mention here. There are also exciting activities to pursue with student You can become the voice of the students by newspapers and websites and The Student becoming a Course Representative or represent Connection. a wider group of students by becoming a Faculty Representative. You can also arrange to study 7. More … why do More? in Europe or further abroad in Australia, Canada, Organisations are always looking for that Singapore or the USA via exchange programmes. something extra when you leave university. Get 4. More … involvement with the Students’ Union involved now, gather your evidence and have More to offer an employer later on. Why not become a member of one of our committees or the Students’ Union Council? The You can develop your skills, interests and Union has a wide variety of committees and their personality – leave University with More than a members come together to act for, inform, and piece of paper. socialise with the students they represent – you! You will meet More people and learn More about There’s a committee for everyone, whether you other cultures, ways of living. feel passionate about who you are or the rights of Further Information others. For the latest information, please go to our web 5. More … to help others pages at www.sheffield.ac.uk/more You can give something back to our local community and develop your personal skills and experience by getting involved with the successful and award-winning ‘Sheffield Volunteering’. You could also get involved in helping new students settle in, supporting students who have individual needs or giving support to students on your course.

36 37 Section 17 International Sheffield

17 International Sheffield

A. INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES 3. FURTHER READING: We recommend: 1. The University of Sheffield has students from 139 a. “Watching the English” by Kate Fox countries. You have the opportunity to meet students b. “The Xenophobe’s Guide to the English” by Antony from all over the UK and all over the world. Miall and David Milsted 2. You will never have this opportunity again! c. “Sorry, I’m British – An Insider’s Guide to Britain a. To meet so many people from so many countries. from A-Z” by Ben Crystal and Adam Russ b. To learn about different ways of studying and living. 4. a. “A fish doesn’t recognise the property of water until it is removed from it”. c. To visit people in all sorts of exciting places around the world. “Just as you will bring clothes and other personal items, you will also carry invisible “cultural d. To challenge set ideas and pre-conceptions. baggage”. That baggage is not as obvious as the e. To see your own country and culture through items in your suitcases, but it will play a major role others’ eyes. in your adaptation [abroad] and with those of other 3. All students can take part in all events. nationalities. Cultural baggage contains the values that are important to you and the patterns of 4. You can study abroad behaviour that are customary in your culture. a. As part of your Sheffield degree The more you know about your personal values b. For all or part of a year of your degree. and how they are derived from your culture, the better prepared you will be to see and understand c. In Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand, the cultural differences you will encounter studying Hong Kong, Singapore. Please and living with foreigners abroad.” www.sheffield.ac.uk/studyabroad (From Nafsa’s International Student Handbook) 5. International Experience on campus or abroad will improve your employability b. To newcomers, the British can seem strange and difficult people. To be fair, any host nation can seem strange and difficult to a newcomer in B. Cross-Cultural Living any land. We have all grown up learning strict 1. Communicating codes of conduct, rules of behaviour and lists When communicating with people from other of what is or is not polite. However, these rules countries or regions, you need to think: and customs are quite different from country to country. We absorb them, throughout our lives, a. That your accent may be unfamiliar to them, so try learning what is acceptable within our own culture not to speak too quickly. and discovering what is not. b. Slang or colloquial language may be unfamiliar. c. Living within or alongside another culture, one If this is the case, try using a different word or is bound to make mistakes which offend, amuse phrase rather than repeating the unfamiliar one. or irritate members of the host culture. In the c. References to popular culture may only be familiar same way, newcomers can be offended, amused to people from your own country. or irritated by the speech, behaviour or practices of the host culture. Because rules about what is d. If you don’t get on with the first people you meet polite, acceptable or expected in our own culture from another culture, it doesn’t mean that you are not recorded in a concise form, we often do won’t get on with others. not appreciate how rigid these rules can be or how 2. Living and working together closely we follow them. When our culture’s rules The diverse backgrounds of your fellow students conflict with another culture’s, we often do not provide wonderful opportunities. It can also present realise that this is what is happening and assume some challenges. that breakdowns in communication or lack of warmth are due to prejudice or unpleasantness. a. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. d. Personal Space b. Do take advantage of the opportunities to meet people different to yourself. i. British people like a lot of space around them. c. The cultural and international opportunities ii. They tend not to make physical contact available to you at University can lead to great of any kind with strangers and feel very experiences for you to put on your CV. uncomfortable if anyone stands too close to them. They will instinctively draw away if anyone comes too close.

38 International Sheffield Section 17

e. Shaking Hands is easy to see how this could be misinterpreted One example of the British ‘keeping their distance’ by someone in whose culture smiles are used is the infrequency with which people will shake only to express genuine warmth. hands with one another. British people do not Iv. ‘You told us the British smiled all the time. I find shake hands very often at all. them very unsmiling, especially when compared to people at home.’ (Female Singaporean f. Making Polite Requests Student) i. In making polite requests, British people tend Yes, if you are from a culture which uses smiles to use very indirect language, using the conditional tense and negatives. even more, you may not find that the British smile very often. Many students comment that ii. For instance, ‘I don’t suppose you could open they do not find people in shops, banks, at the window, could you?’ rather than, ‘Please reception desks smile enough to make them open the window.’ feel welcome. ‘British people never get to the point. They go i. Greetings around this way and that way, using twenty As has already been said, British people do not words where three would do. It’s really hard to shake hands very much. In Sheffield people may communicate with them.’ (Israeli student) greet each other by smiling or saying ‘hallo’/’hi’/’are ‘Some nationalities do not always seem very you all right?’ etc, nodding or raising their polite; ‘I want this’ or ‘I want that’, no smiles nor eyebrows or, if they are close friends, hugging or a please nor a thank you’. (British University kissing each other on the cheek(s). (Heterosexual Official) British males usually do not hug, hold hands with or g. Please and Thank You kiss other men.) i. ‘Please’ and ‘thank you’ are probably the j. Humour three most important words in the British- i. Every culture has its own sense of humour, English vocabulary. jokes and rules for establishing friendly ii. British people are easily offended if the communications. It is not possible to learn words are not used. In many languages and these quickly or easily. cultures such fundamental importance is not ii. British jokes and good humour rely heavily attached to these words; one can be perfectly on a shared knowledge of British culture, polite without uttering them. In Britain almost politics, colloquial language, media and other the first words children are taught are ‘please’ areas which are unfamiliar to newcomers or and ‘thank-you’ (or ‘thanks’ or ‘ta’). even to some people who have been here for iii. What happens if you don’t use them? In a several years. dining room, for example, if one says ‘Chips’ iii. Informal relationships among British students or ‘Can I have chips?’ or ‘Let me have some and between British students and staff can chips’, the chips will almost certainly be served. therefore exclude many international students. However, the facial expression and body Most British people do not realise at all that language of the person serving will give a clear they are doing this. indication that they are unhappy, offended or do not like dealing with this particular student. “The technicians started laughing and joking The student may see this negative reaction but with the British students from the first day as not be aware what has gone wrong. S/he may if they were already friends. With us they seem see that staff are more friendly towards British cold and unfriendly.” (Turkish student) students and may assume that staff simply do iv. British humour also relies heavily on not like foreigners. It is far more likely that teasing or ‘leg-pulling’, as it is known. This ‘please’ and ‘thank-you’ were omitted from can take the form of picking on aspects of an the exchange and that the British person was individual’s personality and exaggerating them reacting to this. in fun. h. Smiling v. Sarcasm and plays on words are also i. Some students say that British people smile a common. lot, compared to many national groups – often vi. British humour can seem offensive or for no particular reason. insulting until you get used to it. ii. The British smile as a greeting, smile when vii. Try not to be offended; if you do find it asking for something, smile on receiving it. difficult to tolerate, tell the person concerned iii. ‘The British are so insincere. They smile even that you feel very uncomfortable with his/her when they are not happy or pleased to see jokes. you. One woman smiled at me every time we viii. Jokes about race, sexuality or gender are passed each other and I thought she really liked generally considered unacceptable. me. So I asked her to come out with me and she refused. She was leading me on and then turned me down.’ (A male overseas student) Well, she probably did not realise that she was smiling and probably smiled at everyone. But it

38 39 Section 18 Shopping for essentials

k. Topics of Conversation b. people do not like to share possessions without It is usually not considered polite to ask someone being asked. their age or their income. Otherwise, most topics m Friendship can be discussed openly and frankly. International students often comment how difficult Some cultures will find that the British are it is to make friends with UK students. Every prepared to discuss issues which they might group (including British) will naturally feel more consider to be private or not to be widely comfortable with others of the same culture. disclosed. The rules about what is suitable for Remember: public disclosure and what is not vary from one i. friendship takes time in any culture culture to another. ii. international students come to University l. Privacy expecting an international experience; most The British may seem to talk about many personal British students don’t – they chose a University things but are, in fact, very private people. in their home country. a. privacy is regarded as a right. iii. do not confuse “friendliness” with “friendship”.

18 Shopping for essentials

A. BOOKS AND STATIONERY d. Second-hand clothes shops such as those run by Oxfam, Help the Aged and Save the Children. 1. Do not purchase until you arrive. e. There are often second hand clothes and cheap 2. Stationery is available cheaply in the Union Shop. shoes on sale on the Students’ Union’ market days. 3. Sheffield has goodbookshops , Blackwell’s Bookshop f. Car boot sales, where members of the public sell in Mappin Street and Waterstone’s Bookshop in used or unwanted items from the boot of their car, Orchard Square in the city centre. are good for cheap goods, but not recommended 4. It is possible to buy standard texts and other teaching for the purchase of electrical items. material second-hand from charity shops or from 2. Main student shopping areas for daily needs are other students; look out for advertisements on your in Broomhill, Crookes, London Road and around the departmental notice board. Hunters Bar area. Shops are generally open between 9.00am and 5.30/6.00pm every day except Sundays. B. POST 3. A tram–ride away from the University is 1. The nearest Post Offices are on West Street (around Meadowhall, one of Europe’s largest shopping malls. the corner from the Engineering Faculty) and in Most of the major stores are represented there. Broomhill. 4. Food 2. Postage stamps for UK/EU are available from the a. Supermarkets are marked on the University Union Shop in the Union Building, all Post Offices and location map. some shops. Other items for posting must be taken to the Post Office. b. There are some 24 hour stores c. Castle Market offers prices that are usually C OTHER SHOPPING considerably lower than in high street shops or supermarkets. 1. Economy Shopping i. The stalls offering the best value attract the a. The market area off Commercial Street for food, most customers, so be prepared to wait! clothes and household goods. ii. Take a bag to carry your purchases as carrier b. Household and clothing stores on The Moor, a bags are not usually provided. shopping street in the City Centre. iii. The 52 bus (from the University area or c. TJ Hughes and Primark on the High Street, Darnall) or the tram (from the University) will TKMaxx (Orchard Square) and Atkinson’s take you to the Market. department stores on The Moor for clothes, bedding and household items.

40 Life in Sheffield Section 19

19 Life in Sheffield

A. OUR STUDENTS AND THE COMMUNITY 6. The needs of neighbours (of private-sector and University-owned residences) must be respected. Sheffield has a well-deserved reputation as a welcoming city, with good relationships between 7. Your neighbours have the right to contact students and local people. Many University of Sheffield authorities (University, police) about anti-social students enjoy putting something back into the local behaviour. The University can and does take community through voluntary activities, such as the disciplinary action. The police can and do issue on-the- award-winning Sheffield Volunteering Scheme. spot fines, arrest and charge people breaking the law. We’re proud that the city recognises our student community as a real asset and we encourage students C. CITY OF SHEFFIELD – CIVIC INFORMATION to return Sheffield’s excellent hospitality by treating 1. The Sheffield Community Information Service can their neighbours and their environment with respect help with any query relating to the City. The service is and consideration. in the Central Library on Surrey Street near theatres. Telephone +44 (0)114 273 4763, email: scis@sheffield. B. YOUR NEIGHBOURS gov.uk Whether your neighbours are students or not you 2. The Sheffield Tourist Information Centre is at 14 must treat them with respect. Norfolk Row, Sheffield, S1 2PA and provides a wide range of information about what to see, what to do students, working people, 1. In residential areas, and where to stay in Sheffield. A Tourist Information families with young children, older people all live Line is available from Mon-Sat 9am–5.30pm Tel: +44 alongside each other. All have the right to peaceful (0)114 221 1900. enjoyment of their homes. www.ukinformationcentre.com/yorkshire/sheffield- deprives people of sleep and relaxation. 2. Noise tourist-information-centre.htm Please be considerate about the noise in your accommodation and noise you make on walking home 3. There are web pages of local information at night. htttp://www.sheffield.gov.uk/index.asp?pgid=1912 and www.spinsheffield.com 3. Loud, boisterous behaviour in public, blocking pavements can intimidate and annoy people. Please be 4. It is also worth getting maps of the area and of the UK, respectful of their feelings. and do not forget there is a lot of information on the University’s own location map – enclosed with your and rubbish on streets and in gardens is anti- 4. Litter pre-arrival details. social. Please place in bins. 5. Visit the Activity and Sports Zone in the Students’ it can make for good 5. If you live near non-students, Union for lots of local information. relationships if you introduce yourself. Remember, they may have had inconsiderate student neighbours 6. See Intro Week activities: in the past and be feeling anxious. http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/newstudents/introweek/

D. LAUNDRY 1. Washing Machines a. You will have to do your own washing. b. University Residences have washing machines, some of which you pay at every use. 2. Launderettes A launderette is a place, usually in a row of shops, where you pay to wash your clothes in a coin-operated machine and also to dry them. Find out what coins you need beforehand as change is often not available.

Sheffield may be a safe city but it’s not crime-free! So you have to use your “ common sense. Srivathsan” Kandasamy

40 41 Section 19 Life in Sheffield

E. TELEVISION LICENCES 2. Television licences in private sector 1. Televisions in University accommodation a. Television sets must, by law, be licensed. A licence for a colour television costs £145.50 and a. Televisions are not provided within University black and white £49 per year (May 2011). If you accommodation with the exception of Opal 2 buy or rent a television from a shop, the dealer is where a television is provided in each communal obliged by law to notify the licensing authorities. living space. b. You can be prosecuted if you do not have a b. Residents of this and any other property must licence. Prosecution usually leads to a fine of up to purchase a Television Licence. All occupants of the £1,000. flat will be expected to contribute to the cost of this and the amount may change depending on the c. Detector vans sometimes visit the area. These number of students in the flat. vans can detect when and where a television set is in use. If you do not have a licence, the officers c. If you bring a television to your study bedroom, have a right to come into your residence at that you must buy an individual licence in accordance time and serve you with a notice that you will be with the television licensing regulations. This prosecuted. will also cover the television provided in their communal living space but not other study Members of Television Licensing staff carry out bedrooms. regular checks on the residences to ensure licences have been purchased. For further d. If you do not occupy the accommodation for the information please call 0300 790 6131 or visit July, August and September period you may be www.tvlicensing.co.uk entitled to a refund. Contact TV Licensing for further information. e. Residents in family accommodation must purchase a TV licence. f. Please note that you will need a TV Licence if you use a computer to watch or record TV programmes.

42 Administrative matters Section 20

20 Administrative matters

A. CHANGE OF ADDRESS 2. Undergraduates should also notify UCAS directly. 1. Notify us immediately of any change of 3. Write to Accommodation and Campus Services correspondence address by emailing shefapply@ if accommodation has been allocated or applied for. sheffield.ac.uk Undergraduates should also inform They need to know that accommodation is no longer UCAS. This is very important. required. 2. If attending the ELT Centre’s summer school, 4. Those in the UK subject to immigration regulations please notify us of your change of address by should not remain in the UK unless fully registered on emailing [email protected] a full-time programme of study at a DFES registered institution. For further advice email: international. 3. Under the Points Based Immigration System, the [email protected] University is required to keep up-to-date contact details for students on a student visa. C. ENQUIRIES B. WITHDRAWAL If you need further information on any of the points covered in this publication please email or telephone We sincerely hope that it will not be necessary for you the appropriate department. In any correspondence, to withdraw from the admissions process at any stage. please state your UCAS ID or Graduate Application However, we recognise that occasionally students do Number (or name of special programme), your full find that they are not able to join us in Sheffield. If you name and the course and/or department to which you do have to withdraw: have applied. 1. Notify us by emailing [email protected] Please include the following information: a. full name b. address c. UCAS ID or application number d. department and course to which you applied e. reasons for withdrawing f. the institution you will be joining, where applicable

42 43 Section 21 Contacts

21 Contacts

Who to contact if you have a query about...... Accommodation (if you have not received Recruitment Support your accommodation pack) Student Services Department 5 Palmerston Road Sheffield S10 2TE United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1015 Email: [email protected] Accommodation Office Accommodation & Campus Services The Edge The Endcliffe Village 34 Endcliffe Crescent Sheffield 10 3ED United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)114 222 4488 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 8919 Email: [email protected] My Application Admissions Service Student Services Department 9 Northumberland Road Sheffield S10 2TT United Kingdom Undergraduate Tel: +44 (0)114 222 8030 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1415 Postgraduate Tel: +44 (0)114 222 8030 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1415 Email: [email protected] Disabled and Dyslexic Students Disability and Dyslexia Support Service Student Services Department Hillsborough Centre Alfred Denny Building Western Bank Sheffield S10 2TN United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1303 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1373 email: [email protected] Immigration Student Support & Guidance Student Services Department Level 6, University House Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1269 or 222 1374 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1304 email: [email protected] Meet and Greet/International Residential Orientation Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1296 Fax: +44 (0)114 222 1304 Nursing & Midwifery Tracey Pacan Tel: +44 (0)114 222 2058 Email: [email protected] Registration & Tuition Fees Registration Helpline Tel: +44 (0)114 222 1288 Email: [email protected] Other parts of the University University Switchboard Tel: +44 (0)114 222 2000 If you have any other queries before registration, you can visit ask.sheffield.ac.uk In all cases it is helpful if you can quote your UCAS or Graduate Application Number.

44 Join Jim at the Gym... Special Early Application Offer Save up to £88!

For further information please contact a membership adviser on +44 (0) 114 222 6969 or email [email protected] The University’s www.s10health.co.uk fitness centre 44 Join 5,000 like-minded students at S10health. As an incentive to take up or maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle, S10health is offering a special early application membership. Available to all new students, includes gym, pool & sauna/steam rooms Annual off peak membership only £150 saving £30 Annual peak membership only £240 saving £88 Offer ends: 12th September 2011

Membership includes gym, fitness classes, pool and sauna & steam rooms. Off peak hours: 7am to 5pm Monday to Friday and all day at the weekends. (Off peak members are allowed access up to 60 minutes before the end of the off peak time band). 14 day money back guarantee should you change your mind after membership is activated. ✁ !

To take advantage of this offer, please return this form in an envelope marked: For staff use Special S10health Early Application Offer, ID No. The University of Sheffield, , Northumberland Road, Sheffield S10 2TY, UK.

Include either credit/debit card details or a cheque (made payable to The University of Sheffield) for the full amount in pound sterling only (Euro and Dollar not accepted).

Title Male/Female* Full name Date of Birth Address Mobile Email Postcode

Signature Date *Delete as appropriate Thank you for taking advantage of this special annual fitness membership offer. When you arrive in Sheffield please visit the Membership and Promotions Team at Goodwin Sports Centre to complete a full application form, to arrange for a gym induction and to activate your membership year.

PAYMENT BY CREDIT OR DEBIT CARD

1. NAME OF CARD-HOLDER 5. TYPE OF CARD 6. ISSUE NUMBER (eg. VISA) (SOLO ONLY)

2. ADDRESS OF CARD-HOLDER 7. VALID FROM (Month/Year) 8. EXPIRY DATE (Month/Year) ......

...... 9. ON RECEIPT I AUTHORISE YOU TO DEBIT MY ACCOUNT ...... POSTCODE ...... WITH THE AMOUNT OF: (Please tick one box)

3. CARD-HOLDER’S DAY-TIME TELEPHONE NUMBER £240 Peak £150 Off-Peak

Card holder SIGNATURE(S)

4. CARD NUMBER DATE ✁ 10. AUTHORISATION CODE (REVERSE OF CARD - LAST 3 DIGITS) Useful Numbers

Registration helpline: +44 (0) 114 222 1288

Accommodation: +44 (0) 114 222 4488

University switchboard: +44 (0) 114 222 2000

University 24-hour contact (EMERGENCY ONLY) +44 (0) 114 222 4085

NHS Direct: 0845 4647

Emergency Services: 999

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the University can accept no responsibility for errors or omissions.

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