Whether you’re new to the University, or you’re coming back for your final year, there’s plenty to do during Welcome.
Here are our top recommendations for any student during Welcome:
1) Check out the Welcome fairs
There are three major fairs taking place on campus during Welcome.
The Students’ Union Freebie Fair will be running on Monday 17 – Tuesday 18 September in The Academy. For new students, you’ll be able to find out about life in Manchester, whilst returning students can find out about all the student deals available from major brands. And let’s not forget – plenty of free stuff’s up for grabs!
The Start of Year Fair takes place on Tuesday 18 – Wednesday 19 September just outside University Place. This is where you can find out about all the services which the University provides, including health and welfare. Even if you’re a returning student, it’s great to check this out to keep yourself in-the-know about where you can find help.
The Societies and Sports Fair is happening on Wednesday 19 – Thursday 20 September in The Academy. There are over 350 societies which the University has to offer, so it’s worth having a quick browse before going to the Fair so you have a chance to ask questions when you’re there! And it’s never too late to join a society for those returning students – give one a go!
There will also be a North Campus Welcome Fair on 19 September in the Barnes Wallis Building to tell you more about the University’s services, including wellbeing support and career advice.
2) Go along to other Welcome events
We have plenty of other events taking place across the University. Up for a film? The SU is holding film screenings during Welcome for free, including The Avengers and Hot Fuzz.
Is your accommodation in need of some decorating? Go along to the Students’ Union Plant Fair to grab yourself some greenery!
Want to meet some other postgrad students? Come along to Night at the Museum, a relaxed evening in Manchester Museum featuring music and craft.
There are also events held by the International Society, including a BBQ. Check out their website for more information.
Take a look at all of our Welcome events here. If you want to download a PDF of the Welcome calendar, click here.
3) Get involved with some free sports
UoM Sport are offering free sports activities for all students during Welcome on campus at the Armitage Sports Centre (only a short walk away from every halls of residence on the Fallowfield Campus). Have a browse at what’s on offer.
Plus, there’s free gym access at the Armitage for the duration of arrivals weekend. To get your free voucher, visit the Armitage and ask for more information at reception.
4) Get all of the practical stuff out of the way
Before you begin your studies, you may as well get all of the annoying practical stuff out of the way!
For new and returning students, you need to make sure you have registered for the 2018/19. Otherwise, you won’t be able to access any of our services.
New students also need to collect their student cards so they have access to facilities such as the Main Library and the Alan Gilbert Learning Commons.
There are also things you need to do outside the University. It’s really handy to be registered with a GP here in Manchester as, otherwise, you’ll have to trek all the way home for a GP appointment. You could also sort out your transport so you’re all ready to ride the Magic Bus!
Returning students will also have to make sure you’re exempt from any council tax as you might receive a letter from Manchester City Council stating otherwise. Don’t worry – it’s a simple process which won’t take long.
5) Be nice to people!
Welcome might be a daunting time for some of our new students. Although there will be lots of Ask Me students around for any new students’ concerns, it’s always nice to help someone yourself if they’re looking a little lost.
Student blogger Hope has also given her advice for meeting new people. Remember, Welcome is the exciting start of your university life, but everyone is in the same situation. To break the ice, try and involve yourself with as many different things, ask people lots of questions and, most importantly, enjoy yourself!