香港六合论坛 / The 香港六合论坛 is in Chichester with a campus also in Bognor Regis, West Sussex. Offering excellent undergraduate & postgraduate degrees, apply now. Fri, 12 Apr 2024 08:19:43 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 /app/uploads/2022/09/cropped-cropped-Favicon-Chi-no-background-32x32.png 香港六合论坛 / 32 32 Tips on moving to University /blogs/tips-on-moving-to-university/ Fri, 12 Apr 2024 08:19:43 +0000 /?p=76051 _________ Moving to University Moving to uni and finding a place where you鈥檒l be happy to live can sometimes feel daunting, so here鈥檚 a quick guide on making the move! _________ Packing what you need: It can be easy to […]

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_________

Moving to University

Moving to uni and finding a place where you鈥檒l be happy to live can sometimes feel daunting, so here鈥檚 a quick guide on making the move!

_________

Packing what you need:

It can be easy to pack your entire wardrobe but you will need to think carefully about what you can take, there are things that you think you will need but won鈥檛 end up using and they will just take up space. Split your packing into categories to help you figure what you need, for example:

  • Bedroom
  • Bathroom
  • Kitchen
  • Study

Remember, you鈥檝e also got to transport all your things to uni, so packing light is always worth it. You can always go back home if you need extra items or buy anything you鈥檝e forgotten once you鈥檙e settled in.

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Once you arrive at uni:

When you get to your accommodation, unpacking first is always a good idea so you can start to feel at home straight away. Tackle your room first, then move on to dividing up what you need in the kitchen, – you鈥檒l also be able to see what the uni has supplied for you already like kettles, microwaves etc. Afterwards, its time to get your first food shop so you can refuel after all that moving and get sorted to see you through fresher鈥檚 week!

_________

Meet your flatmates!

Now is the time for you to relax and socialise! You鈥檒l be living with your flatmates for the year, so it鈥檚 important to get to know them. Fresher鈥檚 week is a great opportunity to become friendly with your flatmates and go out together to Students鈥 Union events and take part in Freshers Fair and Welcome Week.

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_________

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Explore the local area!

Once you鈥檝e moved into your accommodation make sure to explore the local area with your flat-mates. It鈥檚 not only a great way to bond but it鈥檚 also very reassuring to know that you鈥檙e not the only one navigating the new surroundings. You can start to get a feel for what it is like living in a new place and where the local shops, restaurants, cafes and bars are.

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Your first week of studies:

You鈥檒l have some time to settle in to living here before term starts so it鈥檚 always a good idea to check you have all your study supplies and are clear on your timetable beforehand. During your first week you鈥檒l get to know more about the course, the modules for the year, meet your lecturers and start to make friends with your course mates too. It is always a great idea to organise to meet up outside of studies during the first few weeks to get to know each other properly!

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Tips for preparing for your first year at University /blogs/tips-for-preparing-for-your-first-year-at-university/ Fri, 12 Apr 2024 08:16:52 +0000 /?p=76067 _________ How to prepare for university over the summer So, you鈥檝e made your UCAS application, finished your A-Levels and are now relaxing on your well-deserved break over the summer. But you might be thinking, what do I need to do […]

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How to prepare for university over the summer

So, you鈥檝e made your UCAS application, finished your A-Levels and are now relaxing on your well-deserved break over the summer. But you might be thinking, what do I need to do before uni! Don鈥檛 panic, here鈥檚 your guide to everything you need to know before starting uni in the autumn.

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Chat to others

  • It can be good to chat to other students starting uni in September, it will make it easier when starting if you know a few people. You can also chat about all things related to your course and to the uni.
  • Have a look on Facebook and other social media sites to connect with others.
  • You can also follow the university鈥檚 social media sites such as @UniversityofChichester and @ucsu_offical on Instagram.

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Practice your cooking skills

  • It鈥檚 good to brush up on your culinary skills over the summer ready for uni.
  • Learning some basic recipes will be useful for when you need something nutritious to eat.
  • Living on ready meals and takeaways may sound good, but in the long run, it鈥檚 better to cook your own meals!
  • It鈥檚 also a good way to impress your flatmates!

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Working over the summer

  • While you鈥檝e got some time off, working to earn some money may be a good idea to save for uni.
  • Lots of students don鈥檛 prioritise a part time job in the first term while they are getting used to the university.
  • So, it may be good to make the most of the break by working a summer job.
  • You might also be able to keep your job so you can work there in the holidays when you鈥檙e back home.

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Deciding what to take

  • Look at what your accommodation already provides as to avoid purchasing unnecessary items.
  • It鈥檚 good to sort your belongings into categories so you remember what to take.
  • You can always go back home if you forget something, so only take what you need.

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_________

Tips for bonding with flat-mates & course-mates during your 1st year:

  • Explore the local area together during fresher鈥檚 week. For example, go to the beach in Bognor, or visit Chichester town and the city鈥檚 cathedral.
  • Attend fresher鈥檚 fairs and sign up for clubs & societies together and bond over shared interests.
  • Cook, or go to the canteen with your flat-mates.
  • Have a group social, go to the SU, or have flat film night.
  • Take the time to get to know your course peers and build friendships. This will make the rest of your university experience far more fun and enjoyable.
  • Don鈥檛 be afraid to talk to a flat-mate or the wellbeing team about feeling home-sick, you鈥檙e not alone.
  • Make a rota for keeping communal areas clean and tidy.

_________

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Most importantly, relax! You鈥檝e worked hard and you deserve a break!

_________

 

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How to choose the right accommodation for you /blogs/how-to-choose-the-right-accommodation-for-you/ Mon, 08 Apr 2024 14:34:44 +0000 /?p=76061 _________ How to choose the right accommodation for you The University has a variety of accommodation types to suit everyone across the Chichester and Bognor Regis campuses. Picking the right accommodation is important as this is where you鈥檒l be living […]

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How to choose the right accommodation for you

The University has a variety of accommodation types to suit everyone across the Chichester and Bognor Regis campuses. Picking the right accommodation is important as this is where you鈥檒l be living throughout the year, it is important that you feel comfortable and at home where you are staying!

_________

Here are the different categories that accommodation falls under:

  • On and off campus
  • Catered or self-catered
  • En-suite or shared facilities
  • The license period (how long your lease is)

_________

_________

Some points to consider when choosing the right accommodation for you:

  • On-campus is super convenient when getting to your lectures, the SU and the library, however some people may want a bigger difference between their study and life environment.

_________

_________

  • Off-campus will usually mean being closer to the city, you may prefer the greater independence and separation from your studies.

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_________

  • Really consider whether you鈥檇 prefer shared or en-suite facilities in university halls. It鈥檚 a decision between cheaper rent and shared facilities, or spending more for a private bathroom.
  • You will also have to consider which campus you want to live on if you select on-campus halls as you don鈥檛 have to live on the campus where your course is based. You can select either the Bishop Otter Campus in Chichester or Bognor Regis Campus.
  • Living on the same campus as your course is convenient but the FREE university bus service allows you to commute between campuses if you鈥檇 prefer to live in a different location! It may also depend on your timetable and how often you have to commute in for lectures and classes.

_________

 

 

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Improving your Wellbeing: From our Mental Health Ambassadors /blogs/improving-your-wellbeing-from-our-mental-health-ambassadors/ Wed, 27 Mar 2024 14:35:13 +0000 /?p=75905 _________ This year鈥檚 BRIT challenge focuses on wellbeing. The mental health ambassadors at the university wanted to share some ways to improve wellbeing as a student. _________   1. Explore the world around you There鈥檚 lots of benefits to spending […]

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_________

This year鈥檚 BRIT challenge focuses on wellbeing. The mental health ambassadors at the university wanted to share some ways to improve wellbeing as a student.

_________

 

1. Explore the world around you

There鈥檚 lots of benefits to spending time outdoors and in nature, from reducing loneliness and stress to improving confidence. You could engage with nature by gardening, or bird watching, or smelling the flowers. If exercise is more your thing going for a run or bike ride in nature is a great way to support your wellbeing. Meditating or taking part in other mindfulness exercises in nature can also help reduce stress and improve your wellbeing.

 

2. Sleep well

Make sure you are getting enough sleep by setting regular sleep and wake cycles. Spend time to wind down before bed to make sure you can get a good night鈥檚 sleep, this could be by spending some time reading, reducing screen time or doing a relaxing activity before bed. If you find it hard to relax before bed, it can help to write a to-do list for the next day to help you to switch off and relax.

 

3. Social time

Spending regular time with friends, family and pets is important for wellbeing, as well as having alone time to relax and do things you want to do. Make sure you have time to catch up with the people close to you and plan things you enjoy, as well as taking opportunities to meet new people.

 

4. Spend time doing things you enjoy

Its easy to forget to spend time relaxing and doing enjoyable activities when you are at university. Spending lots of time studying is essential… but so is making sure you have regular breaks. Picking up an old hobby, or learning something new is a great way to have a break from study 鈥 or you could try playing a game, volunteering or playing an instrument.

 

If you want to meet some new people in a laid-back setting, you could join the mental health ambassadors who host a variety of settings on campus, email peersupport@chi.ac.uk or follow the @chiuniwellbeing Instragram page for updates.

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Sports Media alumni: Life after uni /blogs/sports-media-alumni-job-success/ Fri, 15 Mar 2024 15:20:19 +0000 /?p=75168   My name is Tom and I studied Sports Media at The 香港六合论坛 between 2017 to 2020. The Sports Media course at Chichester was a perfect set up for how working in my specific industry would be. It […]

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My name is Tom and I studied Sports Media at The 香港六合论坛 between 2017 to 2020.

The Sports Media course at Chichester was a perfect set up for how working in my specific industry would be. It was a great way to build up the confidence in working with external clients and building a strong portfolio, whilst working in multiple different avenues as a videographer, editor and graphic designer, and building those skills to make myself an all-rounder.

I received great opportunities whilst studying my course. Ian Worden was brilliant for all of us, he had some great contacts at Chichester City and allowed us the brilliant opportunity to follow the team and their triumph in the FA Cup! He also gave us the foundations to work with the university sport clubs, allowing us to build up our skill set.

 

 

I am currently a graphic designer for Manchester City Football Club. My work alters day to day, one day I could be creating new branding for the whole club’s identity across social media, the next day I could be working with Erling Haaland and Jack Grealish, directing them for photoshoots that can help us further down the line. I work in a team of 13 designers, there is tonnes of work and can change day to day. I see my team working on promotional content for Netflix Documentaries, transitions and branding for Live Matches and much more!

 

I spent the first-year post university volunteering at a multitude of football clubs, working freelance and building on my portfolio as much as possible. I also worked for a Football Academy creating content for different media channels and websites. After that, I worked for a graphic design agency in London that worked with several sports betting companies, particularly focusing on Horse Racing. I then started working for Watford Football Club and spent a year and a half working as a designer for them, alongside freelance work for Puma.

 

_________

I think my proudest moment is getting a dream job for the Champions of the World, Manchester City.

_________

 

The most exciting part of my job is being able to work for one of the biggest brands in the worldand seeing everything that goes on behind the scenes to make Manchester City the great club that it is. Also seeing some of the best athletes interacting with content you have created it pretty cool!

My biggest advice to anyone is to do as much as you can for as many people as you can. It鈥檚 hard to at first but putting in those first steps of work can help so much, and being able to showcase a strong portfolio is only beneficial. I鈥檇 also encourage as many interview processes as possible, I applied for so many roles that I wasn鈥檛 qualified for, but it allowed me to understand what I needed to do in order to be at the stage that was required!

_________

Do as much as you can for as many people as you can!

_________听

 

-Tom, Sports Media alumni

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University Mental Health Day /blogs/university-mental-health-day/ Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:28:04 +0000 /?p=75266   For university mental health day, the mental health ambassadors wanted to share some tips and advice on how to talk to someone about mental health. Talking is a very valuable tool and we should all aim discuss mental health […]

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For university mental health day, the mental health ambassadors wanted to share some tips and advice on how to talk to someone about mental health. Talking is a very valuable tool and we should all aim discuss mental health more openly.

It鈥檚 important to talk about mental health, it鈥檚 just as important as our physical health and if you feel something isn鈥檛 right, it鈥檚 important to reach out for help. Starting conversations face-to-face can be daunting and hard for people but there are alternatives such as video calling, talking on the phone, or even by text. These are all great ways to start the conversation.

 

In terms of talking to someone who you think may be struggling with mental health, there鈥檚 a few things you can do to make the conversation more comfortable and open. Firstly, make sure that if you are approaching a person to talk about mental health, you pick a time when both you and the individual are relaxed and open-minded and are ready to have the conversation.听Make sure it鈥檚 a time when you and the individual are free and not time limited (for example about to go to a meeting or a lecture).

_________

Remember it鈥檚 okay not to be okay.

_________

 

You should also make sure you choose a place with minimal distractions; you don鈥檛 want to start discussing mental health in the middle of a busy room or when everyone is sitting down for a meal together. Sometimes writing down things you want to talk about can also help make starting the conversation easier. Another tip is to make sure to listen to the person talking, if they don鈥檛 feel like you are paying attention to them then they will be less likely to share what鈥檚 on their mind.

_________

Be kind to yourself.

_________听

Make sure that you reassure the person that you won鈥檛 disclose what they have told you with others (unless the person is in danger/at risk). Reassure them that you are there for them and if they want to tell you anything at any time, you are there to listen if they need to talk.

If you feel like you want to talk to someone about your own mental health, the above tips can also be used to start a conversation with someone.

_________听

We are here to support your wellbeing at the university.

_________听

 

If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health don鈥檛 forget there鈥檚 lots of support available through the university by accessing wellbeing services or speaking to mental health ambassadors who can signpost you to support services.

Email address: peersupport@chi.ac.uk

-Mental Health Ambassadors

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The Benefits of Volunteering /blogs/the-benefits-of-volunteering/ Tue, 20 Feb 2024 13:15:02 +0000 /?p=74597 Volunteering is a great way to spend your free time, it is good for you, for the community and will help you to stand out to employers. _________ Benefits You can gain valuable experience and depending on where you volunteer, […]

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Volunteering is a great way to spend your free time, it is good for you, for the community and will help you to stand out to employers.

_________

Benefits

  • You can gain valuable experience and depending on where you volunteer, you may be able to tailor it to a career you would like after university and gain examples for your CV.
  • Volunteering can help to develop your skills. Skills such as time-management and teamwork are really important in the workplace, so its useful to start practising them now.
  • You will also meet new people and learn more about the community you live in. Helping out with causes close to you is a great way to give back.
  • It is also a good way to bridge the gap between university and the workplace after graduating.

Places to look for volunteering:

  • – A national volunteer charity which you can use to search volunteer opportunities near you.
  • A charity based in Chichester helping to prevent homelessness.
  • Chichester and Bognor have lots of charity shops on the high streets who are always looking for volunteers.

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A Student In Chichester /blogs/a-student-in-chichester/ Tue, 20 Feb 2024 11:47:18 +0000 /?p=73674   Chichester, a city steeped in history and nestled on the southern coast of England, offers more than just picturesque landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Chichester, although small, is home to the 香港六合论坛, providing students with a […]

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Chichester, a city steeped in history and nestled on the southern coast of England, offers more than just picturesque landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Chichester, although small, is home to the 香港六合论坛, providing students with a close-knit academic community and a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.

As a student who鈥檚 lived and studied here for 3 years now, let me take you on a short tour of the delightful city, beyond textbooks and deadlines, into the heart of what makes Chichester a student haven.

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The City After Dark: Chichester’s Nightlife Unveiled

_________

So, after a day of classes and exploring, where does a student in Chichester head for a good time?

Pubs in Chichester:

Chichester boasts a range of pubs with over 15 inside the city walls, each with its unique charm. Here are some of my favourites:

Situated in the heart of Chichester,听The Nags Head听is a traditional English pub offering a range of local and international beers. With its warm and friendly ambience, it’s a great place to gather with friends for a pint or two. It鈥檚 also home to one of my favourite Sunday roasts in Chichester!

The Escapist听is a Micropub right in the heart of Chichester that鈥檚 independently run. They specialise in a huge variety of Craft beer and Artisan drinks. It’s the perfect in-between of a traditional pub and a late-night bar, making it the perfect spot for some social drinks.

:

The wonderfully traditional Greene King Inn sits at the heart of historic Chichester providing freshly prepared, irresistible food all day, every day. Grab a drink and get comfy.

Steeped in history,听The Fountain Inn听is a quintessential English pub with a charming atmosphere. With its traditional pub menu and well-kept ales, it offers a taste of old-world charm for those seeking a cosy night out.

The Duke & Rye听is one of my favourite pubs in Chichester, where you get expect听great food, drink and often live entertainment. Situated in an ex-revival stone church, it鈥檚 a very picturesque pub full of history. They often do great deals on Cocktails and sometimes offer special student discounts on their Facebook page, making it a hotspot for many local students.

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Dance the Night Away:

_________

Chichester’s nightlife scene doesn’t disappoint.听,听听and the听, best described as pub clubs all offer lively atmospheres, with DJs spinning tunes that keep the dance floors packed until the early hours. With regular events and student nights, you won’t be short of options for a really good night out!

_________

My top attractions for young people in Chichester:

_________

Chichester isn’t just about the nights; there’s a whole world to explore during the day. Ever wondered about the stories Chichester Cathedral could tell? It’s not just a landmark; it’s a peaceful space where you can soak in centuries of history鈥.

Explore Chichester Cathedral:

Discover the rich history and beautiful architecture of听. It’s not only a cultural landmark but also a peaceful space for reflection.

Chichester Festival Theatre:

Check out the diverse range of performances, from plays to musicals, at the听. Students can access offers for those aged听between 16-30 Prologue with tickets听for as little as听拢5 without any membership fees! There鈥檚 also 10% off all food and drink in the caf茅 if you show your student ID. Find out more听.

Visit Oxmarket Contemporary Gallery:

Art enthusiasts can explore听, which is a volunteer-run charity which hosts more than 150 high-quality exhibitions a year and is a hub for artists and designers. Oxmarket Contemporary is located in St Andrew鈥檚 Court, off East Street, in central Chichester and is also free of charge. This is near the centre of town and very easily accessible.

Take a Stroll at听Chichester Harbour:

Enjoy the scenic beauty of听. Chichester Harbour is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and is an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). Take a walk along the shoreline admiring the twisted, wind-blown trees, have a picnic, or try out water sports if you’re feeling adventurous or you can even do a harbour tour. You can get the stagecoach Route 53 from Chichester to听听and walk from there to the harbourside.

Trendy Thrift & Charity Shop Finds in Chichester:

Now, let me spill the beans on Chichester’s best-kept secret 鈥 our Thrift and Charity shops. Chichester’s vibrant thrift and charity shop scene is a treasure trove for students seeking unique, budget-friendly fashion. Here are some of my personal favourites 鈥.

Oxfam Boutique (East Street):

A standout among Chichester’s thrift shops, Oxfam Boutique on East Street offers a curated selection of second-hand clothing, accessories, and vintage items. Students flock here for its trendy yet affordable options, with proceeds supporting Oxfam’s charitable initiatives.

Chestnut Tree House Charity Shop (North Street):

Nestled on North Street, this charity shop is a local favourite. Students can discover hidden gems, from chic clothing to quirky accessories. Shopping here not only adds to your wardrobe but also supports Chestnut Tree House’s vital work with children and families.

Cancer Research UK (East Street):

Situated on East Street, the Cancer Research UK thrift shop is a must-visit for those searching for budget-friendly fashion. With regularly updated stock, students can explore racks filled with stylish clothing and accessories while supporting cancer research initiatives.

St. Wilfrid’s Hospice (North Street):

St. Wilfrid’s Hospice on North Street offers a wide selection of second-hand clothing and accessories. Students exploring this thrift shop will discover not only trendy finds but also contribute to the hospice’s compassionate care for those with life-limiting illnesses.

Embarking on a thrift shopping adventure in Chichester will allow you to curate a wardrobe that reflects your unique style while also supporting charitable causes. These thrift and charity shops are not only fashion-forward but also socially responsible, making them go-to spots for students seeking trendy, sustainable finds.

South Downs Escapes:

Being here for three years has allowed me to discover the hidden gems around Chichester, like West Wittering Beach with its sandy shores and clear blue waters. Butser Hill, which is just over the county border in Hampshire, and听听hill 鈥 these aren’t just names; they’re gateways to breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.

West Wittering Beach:

Located in the southwest of Chichester,听听is renowned for its sandy shores and clear blue waters. It is a popular destination for sunbathing, beach games, and water sports. The beach offers stunning views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs in the background. There are a听听run by Stagecoach, which make it easy to get to (plus journeys are capped at 拢2 making it affordable).

Butser Hill:

This is the highest point in the South Downs National Park. The climb to the summit rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including the Meon Valley, South Downs and beyond. On a clear day, the Isle of Wight can be visible in the distance!! To travel in the summer months, take a train to Petersfield and make use of the 37/38 Bus route to Clanfield where you can begin your walk.

The Trundle:

听is another popular destination, with听a well-marked trail leading to the top of the hill. Once at the top, it provides hikers and walkers with panoramic views of the Chichester area, including Chichester Cathedral and the Chichester Harbour. Similar to Butser Hill, on clear days even the Isle of Wight can be visible in the distance. The听听bus to West Dean or Singleton will get you to within听a听short hike to The Trundle.

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So, that’s a glimpse into my life in Chichester. If you’re curious for more insider tips and stories, explore further on website for more adventures in and around Chichester.

By Dan Goodwin

 

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Life as an International Student /blogs/life-as-an-international-student/ Tue, 13 Feb 2024 14:58:34 +0000 /?p=74184   My name is Trinity and I鈥檓 an international student from South Africa, Johannesburg. I am currently studying for a BSc in Criminology and Forensic Psychology. Moving abroad has given me many different experiences, back home I enjoyed many different […]

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My name is Trinity and I鈥檓 an international student from South Africa, Johannesburg. I am currently studying for a BSc in Criminology and Forensic Psychology. Moving abroad has given me many different experiences, back home I enjoyed many different hobbies including horse riding, water polo, volleyball and spending time with my family and friends. However, since moving abroad my hobbies have lessened but are just as fulfilling, if not more. Since immigrating I enjoy spending time with my flatmates, enjoying the nightlife in Chichester as well as adapting to a new culture and exploring a completely new way of life. 鈥

 

I chose Chichester University because they offered the exact degree that I was looking to complete. I always knew I wanted to study something in the realm of criminal activity and solving crimes. Trying to find a degree like this in South Africa wasn鈥檛 very easy, and thus I decided to study abroad 鈥 I only discovered Chichester University when looking at different universities through UCAS, as I searched via courses and applied to all universities that had a degree that piqued my interest. 鈥The first question that everyone always asks me is 鈥淚sn鈥檛 moving away from home very difficult?鈥

_________

Moving away from home is probably one of the hardest things I have ever done, but it has also been one of the most rewarding experiences.

_________

Trying to sugarcoat the idea of moving away from home as easy, is pointless. The homesickness hit me like a train after the first few weeks, I missed many milestones back home as I have two brothers who graduated high school, got their driver’s licenses and got into different universities. I missed birthdays, holidays and even Christmas. About two months after moving here, all I wanted to do was go back home. However, I made a deal with myself, that I鈥檇 give it six months, if I was still unhappy and scared, I鈥檇 go back home.

_________

It has now been 4 months and I can confidently say, that deciding to give myself the option to feel homesick but sticking it out was the best decision.

_________听

I now have friends that I would never have met, I have amazing flatmates, I have gained experience in so many sections of my life, I have gained independence but most importantly I鈥檝e started to figure out who I want to be and where I want to go. 鈥

Although I was homesick, and just sick in general the first few weeks of being here the university was very helpful.

_________听

Chichester鈥檚 resources are incredible in helping students adjust to life abroad, there is always someone to talk to no matter what the problem is that you鈥檙e facing.

_________听

The problem may be mental health, physical or even just maintenance issues. Everyone always gets back to you promptly and they are always willing to help. However, as much as the university resources are helpful, the thing that helped me adjust the most to university life, were the friends that I made along the way. I鈥檓 not the most social person and thus I normally struggle to make friends, living in halls gave me friends right off the bat. I have become completely inseparable from my one flatmate, and she has been my rock throughout my time studying abroad. 鈥

Moving to the UK came with many different struggles, however, culture shock was one of the biggest things that I had to adapt to. The cultural differences will be something that all international students need to get used to. Specifically in terms of South Africa, a culture shock for me was only leaving for a night out at about 9-10 pm and coming home around 2-3 am. Back home we鈥檙e always home by midnight latest. Another culture shock that I had to adapt to is the different slang and type of English that is used. For example, in the UK it is known as a 鈥榯raffic light鈥 however back home it is known as a 鈥榬obot鈥. One of my favourite types of culture shock was the different slang that they use, the best one in my opinion is 鈥渁cademic weapon鈥, which basically just refers to getting stuck into studying or spending a large amount of time working on assignments.听

_________听

Amongst all the new experiences that I have had, the new memories are definitely the best part.

_________听

One of my favourite memories was from my first weekend here in Chichester, my flatmates and I went down to Bognor to the Sheiks club. We had an amazing night out, I had never really gone out with a big group of friends before, and it was probably one of the best nights I鈥檝e had since moving here. Another core memory that I will carry with me forever is house hunting with the people I will be living within my second year. It felt so grown up to go view houses by ourselves and sign contracts, was one of the most independent things I have ever done, and I have University to thank for that. 鈥

As an international student I do feel as though we need a larger presence in the university, so here are听some things to think about. All the advice that I received from different people before moving was helpful however it was all practical. So, from one international student to another, here鈥檚 the advice I think you鈥檒l need.

_________听

Let yourself be sad, and don鈥檛 feel like you have to put on a brave face for everyone else, it will get better.

_________听

Eventually, the homesickness won鈥檛 be every night, eventually, you鈥檒l get into a routine. Make as many friends as you can, speak to everyone, ask as many questions as you can. Most importantly, learn from the locals, learn the etiquette, and most definitely if you come from a warm country, make sure to pack an extra coat 鈥 it’s freezing! 鈥

Being an international student will open up a lot of opportunities as well as questions. My future plans are vague at the moment, I know I would like to work in law enforcement, maybe even work my way up to detective as my dream to is work with and catch high-profile criminals. However, I do plan on living somewhere in the UK, and building a life here for myself is something that I will strive for. I may even push and try to get my PhD in my degree, who knows? I don鈥檛 know exactly where I am headed, but I鈥檓 excited about the journey, and you should be too. 鈥

 

-Trinity, BSc in Criminology and Forensic Psychology student听

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Why you should consider doing a Degree Apprenticeship /blogs/why-you-should-consider-doing-a-degree-apprenticeship-2/ Fri, 09 Feb 2024 10:09:03 +0000 /?p=73974 I’m Ella, a first-year digital marketing degree apprentice studying and working at the 香港六合论坛. In this blog, I have been given the opportunity to talk about my experience, in recognition of degree apprenticeship week!   What Degree Apprenticeship […]

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I’m Ella, a first-year digital marketing degree apprentice studying and working at the 香港六合论坛. In this blog, I have been given the opportunity to talk about my experience, in recognition of degree apprenticeship week!

 

What Degree Apprenticeship are you currently studying?

I am studying a Digital Marketing Degree Apprenticeship working and learning here, at the 香港六合论坛. On the job, I gain a wide range of opportunities and knowledge as I support the social media coordinators, the videographer, and the website developer to enhance our digital marketing and aid with new research and ideas. As well as this, I am going to be working on an advertising project and am already assisting in organising the National Student Survey campaign alongside colleagues.

At University, I will be learning about social media, marketing, management, technology, website development, working with others and much more.听

 

Can you briefly explain what a degree apprenticeship is?

It is a higher education course, usually 4 years long, in which you complete a degree and paid work alongside the learning. It’s also likely to be split one day a week for university and four days a week for work. Allowing听you to grow the practical experiences as well as the theoretical background knowledge of a specific industry/ career path.

 

Why did you decide to study for a degree apprenticeship?

I was never massively interested in the university lifestyle; I much preferred focusing on my personal development and career. I have always wanted to be successful and when my dad and sixth-form careers advisers told me about this optionI knew this would guide me down a successful and stable career faster than other people my age. I also absolutely loved work. I used to go to sixth form five days a week and then would work both days of the weekend. I never had a free day and always loved being busy, so I was fully prepared for the busier schedule lifestyle and responsibilities that come with being part of a professional workplace.听

 

What do you believe are the benefits of studying a degree apprenticeship?

 

In no particular order, here are just some of the benefits:听

 

  • 听An apprenticeship is a great opportunity to connect and meet people in the industry/business that you are interested in.

_________

You are learning on the job! It may not always be easy, but there is always support and guidance when needed from your peers, colleagues, and apprenticeship support staff.听

_________

  • It is the SAME degree that other people will be getting. A huge misconception is that the qualification is worth less- it is the same! (just with an extra 4 years of experience…)

 

  • It is a paid position, as well as gaining the degree for free. This means a chance for savings AND no student debt!

 

  • The degree, alongside the work, will allow me to learn about and gain experience in many different aspects of the industry. For example, I work in social media, website, videography, advertisements, and even dabble in Campaigns… I am not limited to just one!

 

How has the university supported you during your degree apprenticeship?

We have our course leaders and lecturers who are always happy to help in conversation time after lectures as well as online forums.

_________

We have staff who specifically support hundreds of apprenticeship students around the University, setting up meetings every 12 weeks with ourselves and our managers to ensure we are happy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

_________

There are also the student support staff that we can also go to if in need. Just because we are not 鈥榥ormal鈥 students, does not mean we don’t have access to all the same help.

 

What are you hoping to get out of the degree apprenticeship?

Using the keyword again 鈥 experience. This is something not everybody graduating will have, especially not to the extent I will, and I would really like to make the most out of this. It is a chance to make new friends and connections as well as organise my life. I have a long list of things I want to have achieved by the end of the four years and having a consistent pattern is going to really improve my well-being and lifestyle, as well as push me to succeed in my goals.

 

Any advice for someone who is still deciding to study for a degree apprenticeship?

I would say ask yourself if you are ready for the commitment of working and remaining in education for four years. Ensure you understand and research the pros and cons, and the ins and outs of each option after college. I 100% think it is worth it for the opportunities you are presented with that you wouldn’t normally get at university.

Also, in terms of applications 鈥 put in the effort. Finding a job really is a full-time job so go into detail and sell yourself! I applied to over 15 apprenticeships, and this is the only one I got. Ensure you have a detailed CV and cover letter, as well as good references and definitely try and point out any sort of experience you may have already, whether this be in work, school, or even personal life!

 

A pro and con of studying a degree apprenticeship

A pro 鈥 the experience (my favourite word when talking about apprenticeships) is unlike any other route. Gaining a degree (for free!!!) as well as four years of work experience is not something people come across every day. It is exactly what employers will be looking for when you finish studying and will boost your career before you have even graduated!

A con 鈥 it is the same amount of Uni work as a normal degree, just less time to do it as you work 4 days a week and are in lectures 1 day. The key is to prioritise and effectively organise time. I love to use checklists and schedules!

 

Check out the Degree Apprenticeships we offer by tapping the link below!

 

Degree Apprenticeships

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