Monday 28-09-2020 - 11:43

Welcome to Durham! We hope you’re settling in okay, but we know there’s a lot of uncertainty right now. We know this year is not what you expected – it’s not what we had in mind either – but we’re still here to bring students together, stand up for your rights, and help you get the most out of your time at Durham.

We understand you have a lot of questions about how Freshers’ is working this year and we’ve tried to answer some of your most burning questions below.
For all other questions, please contact info@durhamsu.com. As a student at Durham, you also have access to a free, impartial and confidential Advice Service. There are lots of useful resources on our Advice Hub here, or you can contact the service directly via the form here.

What is Freshers’?

Freshers’ is a series of events held each year to welcome new Durham students as you settle into University life, and to give you opportunities to meet new people and try new things. Everyone will have a different idea of what they want to get out of their Durham experience, and we’re here to help you to make the most of yours, and to make sure you feel welcome.

When is Freshers’?

Freshers’ events will be taking place during the week beginning 28 September.

What events are there?

Official events are run by your Students’ Union, your colleges, the University and your department. You should check out their individual social media or the induction planner here to find out about the events they’re running.

How will the Freshers’ Fair work?

The Freshers’ Fair starts on 30 September and is a huge event that brings together hundreds of student groups, from sports to academic groups, to more niche interests like Rubix Cube or hummus. This year, it’s taking place completely online.

You’ll be able to browse through over 400 groups, either by searching for your specific interests, or clicking the “random” button for a surprise. Some groups will be available via video call, so that you can learn more about what it would be like to join them. You’ll be able to express your interest in a group there and then, so that you can start your membership as soon as possible.

And if you’re stuck for choice? The fair will be online for a month, so you can check back to learn more about particular groups.

Learn more about the fair here. 

What is Give It A Go Week?

Give It A Go Week will take place from 4 – 11 October and provides you with an opportunity to try a new activity for free. Lots of student groups will be offering online beginners sessions, so you can see if it’s the right fit for you.

Check out the events here – we’ll be adding lots more, so don’t forget to check back!

How will the local lockdown affect my freshers’ experience?

From 18 September, Durham entered local lockdown restrictions, which will be reviewed weekly. The rules are explained on the council website here and you must follow them to help keep everyone in our community safe. The likely impact is that many of your freshers’ events will be online or, if taking place in person, will need to take place within your household.

I’m arriving later than Freshers’ week – can I still get involved?

Of course you can! The Freshers’ Fair and our Give It A Go events are completely online, so you can join them wherever you are in the world.

Please also bear in mind that each college will have a different programme of events during Induction Week. If you want to find out how to get involved, contact your individual college.

What safety measures will be in place to make sure I’m safe?

Durham University have put measures in place to help students and staff return to campus safely. You can watch a video outlining these measures here. 

Or read more about these measures on the University website here.

Can I still join student groups?

Yes! Many of our groups have been creatively adapting their activities online. Check out our list of over 240 student groups here. We’ve got everything from hummus to baking to martial arts, so you’re sure to find something you’ll like.

I’m an international student and I’m not sure where to go for more information

Durham University is regularly updating its guidance for international students, so please check out their information pages here.

I’m a postgraduate student starting in 2020 – what kind of information is there for me?

During Freshers’ Week, you can make a cup of tea and drop into an online chat with your Postgraduate Academic Officer Sarah. She’ll be happy to answer any of your questions or tell you more about life for postgrads at Durham. Find out more here.

Check out our Postgraduate Housing Guide for information about how to look for accommodation in Durham here.

We’d also advise that you check-out our guidance on moving in during Covid-19 here.

 

Get more out of your time at Durham by activating your Durham SU account. Every Durham student is automatically a member of Durham SU, and your account will allow you to join student groups and have full access to the benefits of the SU. Find out how to activate your account here.