It can be a difficult time to motivate ourselves, we know, we’re feeling it too. We’ve got the January Blues (this really is a thing and we should take it seriously – look after yourself!) and the lockdown blues but for our own mental and physical health, let’s start term 2 in a good way, together.
After a few weeks off, we’re here to help you get your bearings with everything that’s going on at UCL and the Union. A lot has changed but make sure to keep your eye on your emails from UCL and the Union as this will be best and fastest way to communicate with you during this time. We’re also regularly posting on our social media channels so follow up to keep up to speed. Here’s a summary of all that’s happened so far, plus places where you can get help if you need it.
We’ve put together the following things taking place this term. Add them to your calendars, come along to the events, and if you need help, we’re here for you.
Make the Most of UCL Support Services
There's a lot of help on offer at UCL. We’re running welcome back talks on Tuesday 12 January to cover everything you need to know in term 2 and navigate all the places you can get gelp from. We’ll be joined by Support and Wellbeing, Careers and Alumni, and Academic Services and you'll be able to put your questions to presenters throughout.
Tuesday 12 January, 10:00 – 10:50, 16:00 – 16:50
Get Active Fair
We really mean it, look after yourselves. We all know that one of the ways we can look after our health is to get active. Whatever your activity level, we’ve got a lot of options for you. Whatever end of the scale you’re in, whether you’re that person who doesn’t always get their 30 minutes of brisk walking in (there is no judgement on this!), or you are regularly active, we’ve got something for you. Check out what’s on offer during our Get Active Fair.
Wednesday 13 January, 13:00 – 15:00
Societies Fair
Our societies are amazing, if we say so ourselves. They’re groups of ready-made communities full of lovely people who are ready to welcome you into their midst’s. We’ve got over 200 societies (not including sports clubs) so whatever your interests, there’s loads for you to choose from – and it’s all for free. At the Societies Fair, you'll be able to meet and talk to committees, find out what our societies do, and then join them - for free!
Thursday 14 January, 16:00 – 18:00
New and Returning Students Virtual Speed Friending
It's a new year, so time to meet some new people? These have proved popular so we're holding some more to help you make new friends. There'll be questions and prompts so no fear of any awkward silences.
Tuesday 12 January, 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday 14 January, 18:00 – 19:00
Digital New Year Volunteering Fair
If one of your goals this year was to discover London’s communities, try different things, meet new people or create some much-needed positive change in the world then here’s your answer!
Wednesday 20 January, 12:00 – 15:00
Leadership Race 2021
The current Sabbatical Officers have been doing a lot to mitigate some of the impacts of Covid-19 on your education. At the moment they’re working with the senior management team at UCL to create a safety net for your education in the form of a No Detriment Policy. They’re also working to get tuition fee refunds. See what they’ve been doing here.
We’re looking for the next cohort of Sabbatical Officers to lead the Union. Find out about the race and apply for it here.
New to UCL?
To all those joining us this week, Welcome! Lots of new students start their courses in January so you’re not alone. Not sure where to start?
- Download the New to UCL App
- Check out our welcome page to find out everything you need to know about the Union
- Join the Facebook groups. There’s one for Undergraduates, Postgraduates and International Students
- Come along to the events above – they’re all open to everyone!