B. UNIVERSITY

Date: 2015-10-07; view: 510.

Corning to University for the first time can be quite a daunting experience.A person could be faced with finding accommodation, chasing up his grant cheque, wondering how he applies for a top-up loan or even having doubts about the course he's chosen. The Students' Union provides a range of serviceswhich can help everyone with any problems he might be having.

Trained student advisers can try and help solve a person's difficulty. If someone is interested in a career in law, advice or social work, then experience as a Rights and Advice volunteeris a valuable qualification.

Problems don't just have to be about welfare matters. Every year some students experience academic problems.They may be unhappy about the course they've chosen or don't get on with their tutor, and will need help and advice. "Rights and Advice" can advise on how to deal with a problem in a student's department or help with arranging a transfer to a different course or col­lege.

It's often said that students are out of touch withthe "real world". Those who belong to the Students' Union do all they can to keep their feet firmly rooted in the community.They enjoy strong links with the City Council and other local organizations, and they provide plenty of oppor­tunities to make a practical contribution to the life of their city.Their work in the community covers a spectrum of activities - teaching English to refugees, helping out with groups of physically and mentally disabled people, organising parties for senior citizens, decorating, helping the home­'less, gardening and supporting women and their children in hostels.

The whole student population is changing, as the number of eighteen-year-oIds entering University falls. The Postgraduate and Mature Students' Association represents the interests of older students and helps them with difficulties they may have academically and socially. What bet­ter way to sort out problems than to talk them over with people in the same boat?

One in six students is a postgraduate, studying for a higher degree by research. Some are undertaking programmes leading to professional qualifications in areas like teaching and social work. There are also overseas students. Many universities have established exchange programmes with students from other countries.

Students find time to enjoy themselves. When their exams are over they have a big party.

Outside their studies, they are members of different sports clubs, dancing clubs, and choirs, They find many friends in these societies. From time to time they arrange concerts and musical parties. They say, "all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy".

Unit 11