Blog post by Donna, Social Work
Congratulations, you have done it! All your hard work and dedication has paid off and you are finally a fully-fledged student of the University of Edinburgh. Hopefully you’ve made your way to Edinburgh and have been able to get settled in to your accommodation, or are due to arrive soon, and are ready to start your journey here in Edinburgh.
Covid-19 has turned our normal on its head, and classes are set to be a hybrid affair this year, meaning that whilst larger lectures may be held online, there should be plenty of opportunity for smaller in person teaching to go ahead.
Edinburgh University Students’ Association
Now you are a student at the University of Edinburgh you are part of something special, and are automatically a member of the Edinburgh University Students’ Association (or, EUSA). This allows you to take part in some great events throughout the year ranging from A cappella to war games.
The student union is also host to some great services, such as the Advice Place, which offers free guidance on a wide range of issues from academic support to wellbeing issues, right through to peer support. The Association also offers a host of places to eat, drink and shop, so be sure to check them out, there really is something for everyone.
Explore Edinburgh
You are also now a part of this beautiful city, so please make yourself at home and explore everything it has to offer. Grab some comfy shoes and take a wee wander to take in some of the amazing scenery all around the city…just don’t forget your umbrella, you are in Scotland now!
Welcome Week
Welcome Week begins on Monday 13 September and there is a mix of both in-person and virtual events taking place, to help you settle into University life.
Whilst it’s likely that you will be feeling excited to get going, you may also feel a little nervous. I remember feeling completely overwhelmed as my course date approached. Welcome Week should hopefully give you the chance to find your feet, get to know the campus and attend induction events organised by the School. It’s also a great opportunity to meet University staff, connect with other students and find out about the different clubs and societies on offer.
Bristo Square has been converted into an outdoor hall, which will host society and sports fairs, student performances, exercise and mindfulness sessions. There will even be film screenings held throughout the week. The Edinburgh Sports Fair will be held on Monday the 13th and the Edinburgh University Students’ Association will run the activities fair from Tuesday 14th until Friday 17th.
If we are lucky enough with the weather, be sure to grab some lunch or a drink at the Garden at Teviot, our amazing beer garden at the heart of central campus.
UoE Events App
The UoE Events App is the perfect tool to help you plan and organise the events you want to attend over Welcome Week and here you will be able to access the full programme of events available.
The app is available to download now.
There are some School induction events that are essential to attend, as these will provide information about your course, what you should expect and give you the chance to meet others who will be on your course (it’s always nice to know a few familiar faces in lectures!).
Your School should have sent you an email about these events, so remember to check your student email account.
Enjoy the week!
Other events are optional but highly recommended, as Welcome Week is more than just introducing your subject area. It’s also about getting to know the city (it’s going to be your home for the next four years!), trying new things and getting to know your fellow students.
I would recommend embracing the week and attending as many events as you can, you might even find a new hobby or two!
Useful links and SPS societies
- Edinburgh University Students’ Association website
- Advice Place website
- School of Social and Political Science societies
