My first month at Bournemouth University was pretty daunting. Growing up in the town, I was used to the general area but starting at a university can still be a large stepping stone. The first month involved settling in to a new part of my life. I went along to meet the academic teams and my peers. Bournemouth University makes an effort to be sure you feel welcome and are aware of all the resources available to you whilst at the university.

From student support services to clubs and activities, ResLifeBU opportunities and study support, there was lots to find out about.

ResLifeBU Team

During my first term I went along with ResLifeBU to the Eden Project at an incredibly discounted rate of around £8 including the coach return. ResLifeBU is a programme to support your first year at university and is exclusive to those living within the university’s halls of residence. It costs £1.50 a week towards the programme that comes from your rent and it supports you across social, wellbeing and skills. ResLifeBU is a great way to meet people, be sociable and get involved with free and discounted activities.

Eden project domes

ResLifeBU has hosted events from movie nights within your halls, to communal dinners and Halloween parties. You can even get involved in surfing lessons!

Freshers fair is a really good way to meet other students and sign up for events, activities and clubs. You can visit the Sports Hall and find all sport related clubs and societies from archery, polo and football to name a few. You can find other societies if you’re a Harry Potter fan, or fancy joining a film society or debate club.

The Peer Assisted Learning Support Team or ‘PALS’ team are really informative also. They are sessions run by students studying your course but the year ahead that give up an hour of their time to support you with assignments, settling in and general academic help. They run sessions based around what you might ask to learn more about, from referencing to managing your time best during exam season, they’re there to help.

BU has lots of events at the end of September for those that enjoy nightlife. Cheaper student nights out, to free student entry, discounted drinks and Wetherspoons vouchers, there’ll be lots to do within your budget.

PAL Leaders 2020

The first month settling into your course, can involve lots of reading, lots of activities and meetings and a whole new schedule to adjust to. Make the most of student planners and print your timetable ahead of time, so you can be organised!

The first month can be very overwhelming, for even the most enthusiastic extrovert, so make sure you check in with yourself and your peers and give yourself time to relax too. I found Headspace, an app designed to support your mental wellbeing, sleep and focus on meditation and relaxation techniques, a great way to wind down after an overstimulating day reading, learning and meeting new people. There’s a student subscription too – fitting in with your student budget life.

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Student’s arrival stories