08/10/2020
Tens of thousands of students have arrived in Bristol this past week to start what promises to be one of the strangest years in higher education since the second world war. With parties and customary social events off the agenda, the feeling at both Bristol University and UWE is going to be very different this term, and the stresses on students will be different. For Freshers, we extend our welcome to a remarkable part of the country. Going away from home for the first time can be exciting but also challenging, so it is important that students know that their student union will provide counselling and psychological support services in addition to those available from national groups like Mind. Check out your student union website for listings of what services are available. If you think you might be experiencing a touch of homesickness it is important to recognize that this is something normal and natural. Although there are things you can do to help, it may be that you need to talk to someone about it and get some ongoing support. There is absolutely no shame in that. Remember also that there is a lively student media, where you can read about goings on, services, life of students, and even get involved in debates and discussions. Epigram is the newspaper at the University of Bristol. Burst Radio is the University radio and podcast platform. Over at UWE, the radio station is called The HUB and can be heard on 1449 medium wave as well as digital DAB radio. And finally, your LGBTQ Student Societies may be just the ticket to lift your spirits and provide a useful break from your studies. Check out the student union websites for their details and meeting times. Above all, take care of yourself and enjoy student life whenever you can: it will be gone in a flash.
